This summer, the legendary Flying Scotsman train will be arriving in the South West to haul passenger trains on West Somerset metals in June and July 2025.
The much-anticipated arrival of the iconic No 60103 Flying Scotsman, following an agreement with the National Railway Museum and Northern Steam Operation, will see the locomotive running services between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead on select dates. Static displays of the locomotive will also be available at Bishops Lydeard on specific days during this period.
For the operating days, the West Somerset Railway will offer excursions behind the Flying Scotsman for a full-length journey of the line, with the return journey being undertaken by one of their home fleet locomotives.
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In addition, evening excursions will be available for a full return trip behind the Flying Scotsman from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead, with various ticket options including travel only, fish and chips, afternoon teas, or a four-course meal on board the Quantock Belle Dining Train.
Visitors can also take advantage of the static days to enjoy an afternoon tea in the station house garden with the Flying Scotsman as the backdrop. The event aims to cater to all budget types with its wide range of ticket options.
Tickets for the event will be available for purchase on the West Somerset Railway website from Wednesday, April 23. Additionally, a dedicated phone line will be open from 9:30 am on the same day for further inquiries.
Kerry Noble, WSR General Manager, expressed his excitement about welcoming back the Flying Scotsman, emphasizing the efforts made to create opportunities for everyone to experience the iconic locomotive.
Having originated in Doncaster for the London and North Eastern Railway in 1923, the Flying Scotsman has a storied history, including setting records such as the first non-stop London to Edinburgh trip in 1928 and achieving a speed of 100mph in 1934. Following a £4.2 million restoration, the engine has been back on the tracks as a working exhibit since 2015.
As part of the Railway 200 bicentenary celebrations, the Flying Scotsman will be visiting various heritage railway lines in 2025. The West Somerset Railway, which last welcomed the locomotive in September 2017, is eager to host this special event and create an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Please note, all West Somerset Railway stations for the duration of the operating days of the Flying Scotsman will be closed to the public, with access to Minehead or Bishops Lydeard available by ticket only.