Did you know that 2023 marks 100 years of the Flying Scotsman. There are many ways you can enjoy trips on the Flying Scotsman if you’re a fan of the historic steam train.
The Flying Scotsman is the most famous steam locomotive in the World. It began its life in 1923 when it was built at Doncaster Railway Works, designed by Sir Nigel Gresley. In operation it was the first train to be able to reach speeds of 100 mph.
History Of The Flying Scotsman
When the Flying Scotsman began its life, it was known as number 1472 on the London and North Eastern Railway. In 1924 it was re-numbered to 4472 and given the name Flying Scotsman. In 1928 the train completed the first ever non-stop journey between London and Edinburgh.
By 1957, the Flying Scotsman was re-numbered to 60103 and remained until it was retired by British Rail in 1963.
It’s been through some ups and downs since retiring. Having changed owners a few times and almost being left in a scrap yard, today the Flying Scotsman is now enjoyed by steam train fans across the World. The Flying Scotsman is owned by the National Railway Museum and operated by Riley & Son (E) Ltd.
Where To See The Flying Scotsman
As part of the Flying Scotsman Centenary celebrations, there will be plenty of chances to spot the iconic steam engine around the UK.
East Lancashire Railway
Bolton Street, Bury, BL9 0EY
Dates: 1st – 25th March 2023
The Flying Scotsman will be at East Lancashire Railway in March. There will be the chance to see the steam train and also book travel and dining on the train on selected dates in March.
The Keighley And Worth Valley Railway
Haworth, Keighley BD22 8NJ
Dates: May 2023
Whilst the Flying Scotsman is situated at The Keighley And Worth Valley Railway, there will be a whole host of events across the month. These include including traveleing on the iconic steam train, special dining services, late-night running and plenty of photo opportunities.
Bluebell Railway
Sheffield Park, Uckfield TN22 3QL
Dates: 23rd August – 3rd September 2023
The Flying Scotsman will be featuring on regular services whilst it’s staying at Bluebell Railway. There will also be special dining trains, and you can also visit the railway to see the steam train in situ on selected dates as well.
The Bluebell Railway is part of the Blue Peter badge attractions
Excursion Days Out On The Flying Scotsman
As well as visiting locations around the Country, the Royal Scotsman will also be travelling on some special excursions in conjunction with the Railway Touring Company.
30th April 2023 – The Royal Duchy – Flying Scotsman
Take a trip on the Flying Scotsman leaving from Bristol Temple Meads station. Your journey will take you to Taunton, Exeter, Newton Abbot and Plymouth, At Plymouth you have the option of disembarking the train or staging on through to Cornwall before some free time and beginning the return journey.
Related post – Steam trains in Devon
7th June 2023 – Cardiff Express – Flying Scotsman
The scenic rail journey on the Flying Scotsman takes you through the Thames Valley and along the river Severn. Leaving London Paddington, the destination is the Capital of Wales with some time to explore before making the return journey.
10th June 2023 – Cheshireman Express – Flying Scotsman
Travel between London Euston and Chester with the chance to explore the City. There will be some time to see Chester before the return journey in the afternoon.
17th June 2023 – The Portsmouth Flyer – Flying Scotsman
Take the chance to visit Portsmouth, travelling from London Victoria on the Flying Scotsman. There will be stops along the way at Basingstoke, Southampton and Guildford.
21st June 2023 – The Salisbury Express – Flying Scotsman
Embark the 60103 at London Paddington on your journey to Salisbury in Wiltshire. Enjoy the rural countryside in its glory as you travel through Newbury, Westbury and Slough.
24th June 2023 – The Great Yarmouth Flyer – Flying Scotsman
Your journey to Great Yarmouth on the Flying Scotsman leaves from Kings Cross station in London. (Why not get there early and visit Platform 9 ¾).
There will be time to explore Great Yarmouth and its beaches in the seaside town, before the return journey to London.
9th July / 6th August / 10th September – The Waverley – Flying Scotsman
Leaving York, you can travel on the Flying Scotsman to experience travel through valleys and across many viaducts on this scenic journey to Carlisle. Enjoy some time to explore before making the stunning journey back to York.
