Monday

Monday 8th December

LC: To build an understanding of how the steam locomotive shaped Britain during the Industrial Revolution

How did railways change Britain during the Industrial Revolution?

During the Industrial Revolution (around 1750–1900), the invention of the steam railway had a huge impact on Britain. It changed how people travelled, how goods were moved, and how towns and cities grew.

Faster Travel

Before railways, people travelled by horse, coach, or canal boat. These were slow and expensive.

But with railways:

Trains could travel much faster, often up to 30–50 mph, which was incredible at the time.
Journeys that used to take days could now take hours.
More people could travel for work or leisure—some took day trips to the seaside for the first time.

Cheaper and Easier Transport of Goods

Railways made it easier to move:

Coal
Iron
Cotton
Food

This helped factories produce more and sell products all over the country. It also meant food could be transported before it spoiled, so:

Fresh milk, fish, and vegetables could reach cities.
Food became cheaper for many people.

Mining for coal.

Growth of Towns and Cities

Railways encouraged towns and cities to grow:

Places with train stations became busier and more important.
New towns grew around railway lines.
People could live farther from their workplace and travel in—early versions of commuting.