For three days in September, the legendary steam locomotive, Flying Scotsman, will be hauling special trains when it makes a welcome return to main line service.

The trains have been organised by promoter Fox & Edwards Events, which, although this is their first venture into steam main line charter services, has a successful record with 22 heritage lines. The tours will be run in conjunction with Northern Steam, which maintains Flying Scotsman, and the National Railway Museum, its custodian, and will be operated by Vintage Trains, which is one of the UK’s leading operators of main line steam rail tours.

The tours include Derby to York and York to Scarborough on 16th September, Birmingham to Bristol and Bristol to Minehead on 19th September, and Chesterfield to York and York to Newcastle on 23rd September.

Tickets cost from £99 and can be booked online at www.foxandedwards.com/events/flying-scotsman.

Although this will be Flying Scotsman’s first tour on the main line since returning to service, it has already visited the East Lancashire Railway, which played a vital role in its restoration and return to steam.

On Friday, 19th June, Flying Scotsman, along with every surviving and new-build locomotive designed by Sir Nigel Gresley, carried a specially commissioned ‘Gresley 150 Anniversary’ headboard to celebrate the 150th anniversary of his birth on 19th June 1876.

“Flying Scotsman is one of the world’s most famous steam locomotives, and these journeys mean that hundreds can enjoy the magic of being pulled by it for long distances. We’re proud to be taking the engine to brilliant destinations.”

Oliver Edwards, Director & General Manage, Fox & Edwards Events

“Flying Scotsman remains one of the most recognisable locomotives in the world, and as its custodians. we want as many people as possible to experience the magic of seeing it in steam. Main line tours like these enable the locomotive to reach new audiences, bringing railway heritage directly to communities across the country. There’s something truly special about seeing Flying Scotsman at work on the railway it was built for, and we’re delighted that more people will have the chance to enjoy that experience.”

Sarah Price, Head of Public Programme, National Railway Museum