Between 1860 and 1880, the railways of the Caerwyn Isles began their transformation from scattered industrial tramways into a true transport network. The first regular passenger services appeared, while new lines linking neighbouring towns encouraged trade beyond the traditional mines, quarries and harbours. Railways pushed deeper into the valleys and highlands, steam locomotives replaced horses on many routes, and ambitious engineering works began to overcome the islands’ difficult terrain. Competition between the growing railway companies was fierce, but so too was cooperation, as passengers and goods increasingly travelled between different lines. By 1880, the railway was no longer simply serving the industries of the Caerwyn Isles — it was beginning to connect the islands themselves.

NOTE: Work in progress. As each railway company has a dedicated page it will be linked to from here. Keep up to date with our progress documenting the railways of Glynoch and Rathmor by joining our newsletter.