Mineral traffic began in 1834, followed by passenger services in 1835, with the full route completed in 1838. Construction was marked by financial difficulties, landowner opposition, and repeated route changes, particularly at the Newcastle end. The line initially terminated at Redheugh, with passengers ferried across the Tyne, before reaching a Newcastle terminus in 1839 and Newcastle Central Station in 1851.
Despite major engineering challenges in the west, the railway’s completion laid the foundations for later main-line development across northern England. Added to the route are two now disused Lines that offer both walking/cycling opportunities and a Heritage Railway experience.