Rail passengers in Britain are set to witness the revival of one of the country's most celebrated train services, as the Flying Scotsman prepares to depart from London for the first time in several years. From May 18, London North Eastern Railway (LNER) will reinstate a Flying Scotsman service leaving London King's Cross for Edinburgh at 10:30 am, a tradition that spans over a century.
Historic Return
The revived service marks a monumental shift, as it had previously operated only in one direction and at much earlier hours in recent years. However, timetable changes introduced in late 2025 have allowed planners to bring it closer to its iconic mid-morning slot. Passengers departing London will travel north via key stops including York, Newcastle, and Edinburgh Waverley, arriving in the Scottish capital at 2:39 pm.
The Flying Scotsman name has been synonymous with British rail travel since the 19th century. The service first ran in 1862 and officially adopted its iconic title in 1924. It became famous for its simultaneous 10 am departures from London and Edinburgh, a feature the new schedule aims to replicate. The locomotive also broke several world records, becoming the first steam locomotive to officially reach 100 mph, and toured the globe, securing its place as one of the most iconic symbols of Britain's railway heritage.
Modern Trains, Traditional Celebrations
Despite its historic status, travellers expecting a steam train may be surprised, as the revived service will use Azuma trains, which offer modern comfort while paying homage to the route's heritage. To celebrate the relaunch, the inaugural journeys will feature a distinctly Scottish feel, including live performances from Celtic rock band The Red Hot Chilli Pipers and onboard menus inspired by traditional cuisine like haggis, neeps, and tatties.
This announcement comes after LNER revealed details of its upcoming 'Serenza' train fleet, which will feature reclining seats in first class and onboard water refill stations. The new generation trains are expected to enter service in the coming years, enhancing journeys along the East Coast Main Line between London and Scotland.
New Fleet Details
LNER will receive 10 of the new Class 897 long-distance trains, the first introduced as part of Great British Railways (GBR), a new public body being set up by the UK government to run the renationalised UK rail network. Manufactured by CAF, the new 10-car trains will accommodate 569 passengers across standard and first class cabins. First class features roomy reclining seats with enhanced seat pads, widened side bolsters and head cushions, and reshaped cushions for better support. Seat materials have been carefully selected to maximise durability and sustainability.
Other improved amenities include five water bottle refilling stations throughout the train, digital screens in each carriage for information, and built-in USB-C ports and power sockets at every seat. For accessibility, the trains will include improved, spacious wheelchair areas, redesigned bike storage with straps, and better luggage capacity. Tables have been redesigned to give more room for wheelchair users, seat legs have been moved to create additional space for assistance dogs, and a grab rail has been installed along the full length of the Café Bar.
Additional luggage racks in carriages with wheelchair spaces will reduce the likelihood of luggage misuse, and braille seat numbers will help visually impaired customers find their seat. For Standard Class customers, there will be a new and improved Café Bar stocked with food and drinks from local suppliers along the LNER route, with digital menu screens showing real-time availability. Toilet facilities have been redesigned with customer feedback in mind, featuring an improved wash basin design, baby changing tables, and clearer signage in accessible toilets. Equipped with tri-mode technology, the new Class 897 fleet can operate seamlessly on electric, diesel, and battery power.
