The East Lancashire Railway was excited to welcome the legendary Flying Scotsman back onto its track for an array of unique experiences at the beginning of June. Ever since the railway played a key role in her historic restoration, she has held a special place in the heart of the ELR. Her occasional visits are always the cause of much celebration, drawing record numbers.
Ride, Dine and Display
This year’s visit was no different, with three different experiences being made available. The Scotsman on display experience allowed visitors to get up close and personal with the locomotive whilst it remained stationary on the platform. It included learning the history of the iconic locomotive since its lauch in 1923 and then a walk through the tender and a look around the footplate. Almost 600 people enjoyed this unique opportunity.
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Thousands also got the chance to ride behind the engine along the ELR line, as she ran regular services over a further 5 days. Almost 10,000 ticket holders decided to make the trip, and judging from the feedback, they all had a fantastic time.
Finally, for those wanting the ultimate Scotsman experience, the engine hauled a black tie, premium dining service on three separate evenings starting with a piped band. Around 500 guests took in the full Scotsman experience, enjoying a legendary meal behind a legendary locomotive!
East Lancashire Railway chairman, Mike Kelly, had this to say:
“The Flying Scotsman is the flag bearer for heritage railways, a fantastic ambassador and showcase for great british engineering. Testimony of this locomotives’ pedigree which saw over 10,000 visitors to the railway and many more observing in the run from Bury to Rawtenstall.
I want to thank our wonderful staff and volunteers who tirelessly worked to provide not just a unique experience but also our visitors going away with wonderful memories of Scotsman on the ELR”
The engine has now left for pastures new, but we’re sure we’ll be welcoming her back to the East Lancashire Railway at some point in the future.
