Tickets launched today for tours with the legendary locomotive across the country in September 2026 – with journeys from Bristol, Chesterfield, Derby and York.
The engine will be visiting a number of destinations during the three days of operations between September 16th and 23rd – including seaside jaunts to Scarborough and Minehead as well as city stops in York and Bristol.
These trips represent the first major programme of long-distance passenger trains for the iconic locomotive – which once set the official steam speed record in 1934 of an authenticated 100mph – for several years.
Efforts to return the engine to the mainline have been led by promoter Fox & Edwards Events, who are making their first forays into express steam travel alongside successful partnerships with 22 heritage lines. They are working with Northern Steam, who care for the locomotive, Vintage Trains, a leading operator of mainline steam railtours, and the National Railway Museum, custodians of Flying Scotsman.
First class and traditional seating options are being offered, with tickets at £99 for a return trip. Journeys are expected to last several hours, with a break before the return leg to give passengers a chance to enjoy local history and attractions.
Oliver Edwards, Director & General Manager of Fox & Edwards Events, said “Flying Scotsman is the 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.”
Nick Ralls, Managing Director of Vintage Trains, commented “We are very experienced at operating steam on the 21st century rail network at mainline speeds. As a train operating company we are looking forward to working with Fox & Edwards Events building on previous successes with this incredible machine.”
Sarah Price, Head of Public Programme at the National Railway Museum, said: “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.”
Flying Scotsman is appearing thanks to its owners the National Railway Museum. Visitors can explore Flying Scotsman’s full 2026 events calendar at: railwaymuseum.org.uk/flying-
Ticket at Fox & Edwards Events website.
Wednesday 16th September
Derby to York and return.
York to Scarborough and return.
Saturday 19th September
Stourbridge (Birmingham) to Bristol.
Bristol to Minehead.
Wednesday 23rd September
Chesterfield to York and return.
York to Newcastle and return.
The locomotive is appearing thanks to its owners at the National Railway Museum, who operate sites at York and Shildon in County Durham.
