Locomotion in Shildon, County Durham is set to host a special visit from world famous locomotive Flying Scotsman this Christmas to celebrate the locomotive’s 100th birthday.
Flying Scotsman will visit the museum from 16 December 2023 – 7 January 2024 and will give people their last chance to see Flying Scotsman in light steam for free in its centenary year.
The locomotive arrived at the museum on 14 December where it was met by 60 school children from St. John’s CE Primary School in Shildon.
Built in Doncaster in 1923 for the newly-formed LNER, Flying Scotsman is considered by many to be the most famous locomotive in the world. Flying Scotsman was saved from the scrapheap and toured the USA and Australia before becoming part of the National Railway Museum’s collection.
As well as seeing Flying Scotsman once the locomotive goes on display, there will be a host of free family events and activities including make and take craft sessions.
The specially-commissioned short film Flying Scotsman: 100 Years, 100 Voices will also be screened as part of the event. This shows a range of stories from everyday people with a strong connection to the locomotive.
Visitors to Locomotion can also access Flying Scotsman’s footplate where generations of drivers and firemen would have worked and will be able to see down the tender corridor. This was introduced by LNER in 1928 to enable fresh crew to travel between the support coach and the footplate without having to stop.
Sarah Price, Head of Locomotion, said:
“We know from previous visits that Flying Scotsman has a unique appeal and I hope that families and railway enthusiasts from across the region will join us this Christmas to help celebrate Flying Scotsman’s very special birthday.”
As well as seeing Flying Scotsman, people can also see the museum’s main hall which houses more than 70 rail vehicles and enjoy the indoor and outdoor play areas which will remain open for visitors.
Flying Scotsman’s visit to Locomotion is sponsored by CrossCountry and the Flying Scotsman centenary programme has been generously supported by Hornby Hobbies (Lead Sponsor) and has also been made possible thanks to the National Heritage Memorial Fund and players of People’s Postcode Lottery.
The event is free to attend but (free) museum admission tickets must be booked prior to arrival and parking on site will be limited. For more information, visit the Locomotion website: https://www.locomotion.org.uk/whats-on/flying-scotsman-christmas
Image credit: Railway Musuem
