The Cornwall Railway, a significant infrastructure project, connected the important regions of Devon and Cornwall by spanning the River Tamar with the Royal Albert Bridge. Designed by the renowned civil engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the bridge was celebrated for its remarkable engineering and architectural design, featuring a blend of iron and stone construction. When it opened, the bridge stood as a testament to Victorian engineering prowess, facilitating quicker travel and transportation of goods between the two counties. This new connection marked a pivotal moment in the expansion of rail travel in Britain, enabling not only better access for passengers but also enhancing the transport of agricultural and industrial products vital to the local economies.

The opening ceremony was a grand affair, with local dignitaries, social celebrations, and public demonstrations of the new transport option. The bridge itself was a marvel of its time, with its 450-foot arch — then the longest in the world — becoming a focal point in discussions about technological progress. People from nearby regions attended the event, underscoring the bridge's significance to local communities and the broader economic landscape of the British Isles. The bridge soon became not only a prominent transport link but also a symbol of progress and connectivity in a rapidly industrializing nation.

Following the opening, the Cornwall Railway continued to expand its reach, integrating various towns and cities into a wider network, which played an integral role in the economic development of Cornwall, which had previously been somewhat isolated. This infrastructure helped facilitate tourism in the region, allowing easy access to its scenic landscapes, thereby promoting leisure travel and shaping the region's economy for decades to come.