Incorporated on 21st July 1845.
A standard gauge, 21 mile line connecting the Manchester and Leeds Railway with the Sheffield, Ashton-under-Lyne and Manchester Railway. It was amalgamated with the London and North Western Railway in 1847, opening the same year, and all shares converted to L&NW stock.

Capital £1,049,280 divided into 23,120 Whole Sharesof £30 each; 5,556 Canal Shares of £30 each; and 18,900 Third Shares of £10 each. Loans of £349,760.