Over a period of about seven years, the track reached a distance of about one mile (1.6 km) long, with tunnels and some very sharp curves and steep gradients serving six stations.

The first engine was an 0-4-0T "Effie"[2] which was built simply to provide motive power for Sir Arthur's first experiments and did not represent a final design.

Although the grate area was proportional to the boiler heating surface, the firebox volume was small, and it was difficult to maintain a head of steam for an extended run.

Because of the sharpness of the curves on his track, something he expected to be a feature of future constructions, he devised what he called his "radiating axles", foreshadowing the later Klien-Lindner and Luttermöller systems.

The Eaton Hall railway continued for a number of years, carrying timber and building materials around the estate, until it closed in 1947.

None of Sir Arthur's lines now exist, but in recent years, enthusiasts such as the Heywood Collection, have recovered various items of interest.