Flying Scotsman to return to East Lancashire Railway in 2026

Monday, 29 December 2025 09:11

By David Murphy

Flying Scotsman. Credit: East Lancs Railway

One of Britain’s most iconic steam locomotives is making a highly anticipated return to the East Lancashire Railway (ELR) next summer, with the Flying Scotsman confirmed for a special run of events in June 2026.

One of Britain’s most iconic steam locomotives is making a highly anticipated return to the East Lancashire Railway (ELR) this summer, with the Flying Scotsman confirmed for a special run of events in June 2026.

Built in 1923, the LNER Class A3 60103 Flying Scotsman became the first steam locomotive officially recorded at 100 miles per hour and remains a treasured symbol of the steam age. After a chequered century of service, ownership battles, overseas tours and restorations, the locomotive continues to attract visitors from across the world.

The ELR played a key role in the Flying Scotsman’s story, with its restoration work helping return the engine to mainline service. Past visits to the heritage railway have drawn record crowds, and the 2026 event is expected to do the same.

The Flying Scotsman will haul return journeys along the full length of the ELR on six dates: 5, 6, 7, 12, 13 and 14 June 2026.

Passengers can only board the train at Bury Station, with a non-stop round trip taking approximately 90 minutes. Tickets start at £30.50 for children aged 0 to 15, £35.50 for young people aged 16 to 17, and £42.50 for adults. Private compartments seating up to eight people are available for £350.

Separate to the running days, the engine will be on static display at Heywood on 3 and 10 June, and at Bury Station on 4, 11 and 12 June. Display visitors will have the chance to walk through the tender and view the cab, offering a rare chance to get up close to the celebrated locomotive.

Static display tickets cost £15 for adults, £13.50 for young people, and £12 for children.

Visit the ELR website to get your tickets and learn more; https://www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk/events-activities/flying-scotsman-at-the-elr/

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