The Calne branch of the railway opened to passengers on Tuesday, 3 November, 1863. On this day an unofficial holiday took place with all shop closed and the 4th Wiltshire Volunteer Corps Band paraded through the streets. As with most English holidays, it apparently rained heavily on this day in 1863!
The excusion train to Bath opened the line, with an estimated 1000 passengers travelling on that first train, with many left behind due to lack of space.
The branch railway, of 5 and a quarter miles, cost £54,000 and was opened with nearly no debt. All stone required for the build, including bridges, came from Mr. Benjamin Baily's land. A standard run from Calne to Chippenham took 10 minutes in 1863, with 12 passenger trains running daily.
Reference:
Tanner, G., 1972. The Calne Branch. Oxford Publishing Co.
