The route started in the centre of Blackburn, and followed Darwen Street, Bolton Road, then through Ewood, Earcroft, Hawkshaw, and terminating in Darwen at Whitehall.

Six steam trams were acquired from Kitson and Company for the inauguration of the service.

This fleet was later augmented to 15, with 7 of the additional trams being obtained from Thomas Green & Son.

The initial passenger cars were built by Ashbury on Eades patent reversible trucks.

The service came into operation after inspection from General Hutchinson of the Board of Trade.