Flying Scotsman to pass through Greater Manchester this month to celebrate 100 years

The Flying Scotsman will pass through Greater Manchester this March as it celebrates 100 years.

The ‘world’s most famous locomotive’ the Flying Scotsman will pay a visit to Greater Manchester, as this glorious piece of historic industrial engineering celebrates 100 years in service — as part of its centenary programme.

Celebrating a whole century since it first took to the tracks in 1923, the record-breaking steam engine was later restored to its former glory. Now the sight of the much-loved dark green machine carving through the countryside has become one of the most iconic British scenes.

We’ll soon be able to see it as it glides in to the East Lancashire Railway this month, as she heads to Irwell Valley for several journeys. The train will be stopping off at stations including Bury, Heywood and Ramsbottom as well as Rawtenstall between March 11th and 19th, making five daily journeys.

Fans will also be able to visit the magnificent LNER Class A3 60103 while it sits static at Bury station on March 9th, as they get to see this legendary beast up close. Tours take place every 30 minutes between 10am and 4pm with up to 10 people per tour. Static tours of Heywood station have now sold out.

Tickets for a ride on board are £36 for adults and £22.50 for children – the price includes a round trip between Bury and Rawtenstall and back to Bury. Plus, unlimited travel on all other services on your chosen date full length of the line between Heywood, Bury, Ramsbottom and Rawtenstall, and free entry into the Bury Transport Museum.

If you want a fine dining experience and to live in the lap of luxury on your ride then you can also book in for dinner on the Flying Scotsman where you’ll be whisked off to your luxury reserved seats with plush furnishings, crisp table linen and polished wooden panelling – all combined to convey the glamorous, first class dining experience from days gone by. 

Guests will be served a four-course meal, all while cruising through the Irwell Valley. Tickets for this Black Tie experience cost £130 per person, which includes prosecco and canapé reception plus a welcome from the Caledonian Pipe Band.

For more information about the Flying Scotsman visiting Greater Manchester, and to book tickets, head over to the East Lancashire Railway website.