The iconic Flying Scotsman is making a grand return to the rails.
All aboard. From the luxurious Britannic Explorer to newly added routes from Lumo, London has been making a lot of train news recently, but if you're a fan of history and vintage travel, this one is for you. The Flying Scotsman, one of Britain’s most iconic steam engines, is making a grand return to the rails, giving passengers and enthusiasts a chance to witness railway history in motion.
The Flying Scotsman is the oldest train service still in operation, dating back all the way to 1862. While its name and history carry some real weight in the trainspotting world, it's the iconic 10am dual departures from London and Edinburgh it's remembered for.
However, as the years have gone by, the once-iconic train has lost a bit of its vigour—departing early in the morning at 6am from Edinburgh instead of its coveted 10am slot and losing its London departure. If we’re being honest, a makeover has been long overdue.
The Iconic Flying Scotsman Train Service Is Returning To London's Railways
What Is Happening With The Flying Scotsman In May 2026?
The Flying Scotsman service is returning on the 18th of May 2026, recreating the historic London-Edinburgh route along the East Coast Main Line. As an homage to its past, the train will depart Edinburgh at 10am and London at 10.30am.
How Do I Ride On The Flying Scotsman?
From the 18th of May, you can book the 10am LNER Azuma train from Edinburgh to London, and the 10.30am LNER Azuma train from London to Edinburgh.
Is The 2026 Flying Scotsman A Steam Train?
No. As much as we love the vintage vibe, the 2026 Flying Scotsman service will be operated by modern LNER Azuma trains. The revival is more focused on the heritage and identity of the route rather than recreating the exact steam engine.
The original Flying Scotsman locomotive is separately maintained by the National Railway Museum and won't be back on the tracks.
What Will Passengers Experience On The 2026 Flying Scotsman Launch Day?
The journey is being staged as a celebration of railway heritage, and will celebrate its launch with some on- and off-board experiences.
- Live in-station performance from Celtic rock group The Red Hot Chilli Pipers
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A Scottish-themed menu featuring dishes including haggis, tatties and neeps
- Commemorative programming tied to the 150th anniversary of LNER engineer, Sir Nigel Gresley
Can't get enough? Check out our list of unique train experiences in London.
