ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

British industrial narrow gauge railways

British industrial narrow gauge railways are like tiny trains that run in factories, mines, quarries, and other industrial areas. They are called narrow gauge because the distance between the tracks (rails) is smaller than regular trains.

These trains were very important during the Industrial Revolution when there was a big demand for raw materials such as coal, iron ore, and limestone. Before the invention of big machines and vehicles, these little trains were the only way to move the heavy loads around.

The trains were usually pulled by steam engines, just like the big trains you see in movies. But instead of coal, they used wood or oil to make the steam. The trains had a special design that allowed them to navigate through tight spaces and steep hills.

Workers used to ride on these trains instead of walking, which made their jobs much easier. The trains could also transport materials quickly and efficiently, saving time and money.

Although most of these narrow gauge railways are no longer in use today, some have been preserved as heritage railways and tourist attractions. Nowadays, big machines and trucks are used for transportation in factories and mines, but it's still important to remember the role that the tiny trains played in the history of British industry.