Construction work started in June 1898 and first routes opened in July 1900.

An electricity generating station was built on Duke Street to supply power for the scheme.

The network was essentially complete and fully operational by the end of 1901, but there were minor additions and changes in 1918 and 1919.

The network was radial, with routes based around the hub in Orford Place TG 23046 08327.

The last tram route to close, in 1935, was Newmarket Road to Cavalry Barracks.