Rail passengers in Britain are set to see the return of one of the country’s most famous train services, as it gears up for a London departure for the first time in years.
From May 18, London North Eastern Railway (LNER) will reinstate a Flying Scotsman service leaving London King’s Cross for Edinburgh at 10.30am – a tradition that dates back more than a century.
The revived service marks a monumental shift, as it had only run in one direction and at much earlier hours in recent years.
However, timetable changes, introduced in late 2025, have since 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 2.39pm.
The Flying Scotsman name has been synonymous with British rail travel since the 19th century, with the service first running in 1862 and officially adopting its iconic title in 1924.
It became famous for its simultaneous 10am departures from London and Edinburgh – something the new schedule aims to replicate.
It also broke several world records, becoming the first steam locomotive to officially reach 100mph.
The Flying Scotsman service will make its return to London King’s Cross on May 18
The revived service is set to use Azuma trains (pictured) rather than the traditional steam locomotive
The locomotive also toured the globe, securing its place as one of the most iconic symbols of Britain’s railway heritage.
Despite its status as a historic locomotive, travellers expecting a steam train may be left surprised, as the revived service is set to 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 – sheep’s offal, swede and potatoes.
It 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 come into service in the ‘coming years,’ and will enhance the journeys of passengers travelling along East Coast Main Line between London to Scotland.
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, with the latter featuring roomy reclining seats.
New and enhanced seat pads have been developed, side bolsters and head cushions widened, and cushions reshaped to best support customers.
LNER announced details of its new ‘Serenza’ train fleet, which will feature reclining seats in first class and onboard water refill stations
The Class 897 long-distance trains are set to enhance the journeys of passengers travelling along East Coast Main Line between London to Scotland
Seat materials have also been carefully selected to maximise durability and sustainability.
Other improved amenities will include five water bottle refilling stations throughout the train, and digital screens in each carriage to provide information.
Passengers can also keep their devices fully charged with built-in USB-C ports and power sockets at every seat.
As for accessibility, the trains will include improved, spacious wheelchair areas, redesigned bike storage with straps, and better luggage capacity.
Tables have also been redesigned to give more room for wheelchair users, seat legs have been moved, creating additional space for assistance dogs, and a grab rail has been installed along the full length of the Café Bar.
There will also be additional luggage racks in carriages with wheelchair spaces to reduce the likelihood of luggage misuse, and braille seat numbers will feature helping visually impaired customers find their seat.
For Standard Class customers, there will be a new and improved Café Bar, stocked with delicious food and drinks from local suppliers along the LNER route.
Digital menu screens will show, in real-time, what is available to be enjoyed.
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 also operate seamlessly on electric, diesel, and battery power.
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