The North Yorkshire Moors Railway has announced the return of A1 Pacific No. 60163 ‘Tornado’, scheduled to operate on the heritage line between 27 July and 8 August.

Built by The A1 Steam Locomotive Trust and completed in 2008, ‘Tornado’ was the first new-build steam locomotive constructed for the British main line network in more than 50 years. The locomotive is also the sole surviving example of the Peppercorn A1 class and, in 2017, became the first steam locomotive in over half a century to officially reach 100mph on Britain’s railways.

Operations are planned for 27 July to 1 August and 3 August to 8 August, with return services departing Pickering at 09:55 am and 1:05 pm.

Standard Tornado services cost £35 for adults aged 16 and over and £17.50 for children under 16, while babies and toddlers travel free. Reduced fares are also available for groups, carers, and North Yorkshire Moors Railway membership holders.

On 29 July, passengers will have the option of upgrading their journey with a Fish & Chips experience. Tickets for this service, including the catering upgrade, are priced at £60 per person.

“We’re really excited to be welcoming Tornado back to the NYMR. It’s one of the most remarkable steam locomotives of the modern era that appeals to rail enthusiasts and the wider public alike. Seeing Tornado in action on our historic line is a great experience for lifelong steam fans, or visitors who are discovering heritage railways for the first time.” 

Paul ‘Piglet’ Middleton, Director of Mechanical Engineering at NYMR