The rail link to Torquay was crucial in its development. Before 1848, coming to the area meant a very long and uncomfortable journey by stagecoach. Visiting by train was much easier. Visitors remained wealthy however. Ordinary people had too little money and no paid holidays. For many the latter did not arrive until the 20th century. Unfortunately there is no picture source available of the first train arriving in 1848.

Pupils could imagine they were a rich landowner and create an argument for why they do not think they should have the railway line passing their property. Others could reply to the landowner giving reasons why the railway coming would be an advantage for Torquay. Pupils could design a poster encouraging people to come to a meeting to support an extension of the line beyond Torre. They could also use information books to research all the different jobs involved in running a station such as Torre in Victorian times.