Flying Scotsman to Reunite Severn Valley Railway in a Grand Comeback
Let me tell you about something truly special that’s happening this summer — a piece of British railway heritage roaring back to life in a way that’s got rail enthusiasts, history buffs, and locals absolutely buzzing. The legendary Flying Scotsman will be hauling the first full-length passenger service on the Severn Valley Railway after months of closure due to a serious embankment collapse. Mark your calendars — Friday, July 25th is the day this iconic locomotive makes its grand return to the full 16-mile line between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth.
Now, if you’re not familiar with the story, here’s a quick rewind. Earlier this year, on January 30th, a landslip at Mor Brook bridge damaged the track and cut off the northern part of the line. Since then, only the southern stretch up to Hampton Loade has been operating. Fast forward to now — engineers have been working tirelessly, excavating over 2,500 tonnes of material and installing temporary infrastructure to make sure the line can reopen safely. And what better way to mark the occasion than with the Flying Scotsman at the helm?
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This isn’t just a regular train making a comeback. We’re talking about one of the most famous steam locomotives in the world. The Flying Scotsman, originally built in 1923, was the first to hit 100 mph on British rails and famously ran the first non-stop service from London to Edinburgh in 1928. It's not just a train — it's a living symbol of British engineering and ambition.
On July 25th, the Flying Scotsman will haul three return trips along the full line, and it doesn’t stop there. It’s part of the Severn Valley Railway’s Swingin’ Sixties event, celebrating 60 years of the line in preservation. The festivities will continue across July 26th and 27th, with live music, vintage vehicle displays, a Ferris wheel at Highley, and other steam and diesel train services running alongside.
And here’s the cherry on top — the Scotsman will be paired with SVR’s authentic Gresley teak carriages for an extra nostalgic experience. If you want to ride behind it, you’ll need to pre-book tickets at £45. They go on sale from June 18th, and given the sell-out crowds during its last SVR visit in 2016, you’ll want to act fast.
The man behind SVR’s operations, Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster, called the return of the Flying Scotsman a “coup” — and rightly so. Craig Bentley from the National Railway Museum echoed the excitement, calling this a moment of inspiration, especially during the 200th anniversary year of railways in Britain.
So whether you're a lifelong steam lover, a history aficionado, or just someone looking for an unforgettable summer event, the full reopening of the Severn Valley Railway with the Flying Scotsman at the front is one for the books. It’s more than just a train ride — it’s a celebration of resilience, heritage, and a deep-rooted passion for rail that refuses to fade.
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