Awdry on 14 July 1975,[6] at which time it offered a return ride from "Much Natter" station via a balloon loop.

Subsequently, it was almost doubled in length by construction of the "Devil's Gorge" extension which involved a very considerable cutting and tunnel, and the complex track layout also includes a more recent steeply-graded branch line to "Wildway Down".

[7] The line is notable for its high standard of presentation to the public and for the fine views obtainable from it.

[8] It is home to eight live steam locomotives designed on narrow gauge principles.

[9] A locomotive called 'Finn MacCool' also visits every summer (usually July – September) from the Belfast and County Down Miniature Railway Society, Northern Ireland, to help out in the peak season.