Flying Scotsman Steams into Birmingham's Moor Street for Historic Journeys
The iconic Flying Scotsman locomotive made a grand entrance into Birmingham's historic Moor Street station on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as part of a series of special heritage journeys originating from the city. Locals eagerly lined the roads towards Solihull and beyond, capturing the moment as the steam engine pulled vintage Pullman carriages into the station, accompanied by a piper playing Scotland the Brave for an audience of passengers and trainspotters.
A Piece of Railway History
Built in 1923, the Flying Scotsman is a celebrated piece of history, arriving just 14 years after the oldest sections of Moor Street Station were constructed. This locomotive holds significant records, including being the first to officially reach 100mph in 1934 and later becoming the first to circumnavigate the globe. Since its arrival in the region on Saturday, February 14, it has been operating special Vintage Trains round-trip dining experiences to Stratford Upon Avon, with similar journeys planned for the upcoming weekend.
Journey Details and Passenger Experiences
While weekday trips from Wednesday to Friday are hour-long rides without formal dining, a carriage has been dedicated as a tuck shop and merchandise area, selling Flying Scotsman badges, bags, and hats. Multi-generation groups took advantage of the half-term break to board the first journey, which departed from Birmingham Moor Street, traveled to Dorridge, and returned. The initial leg at 10:30 am was pulled by a D1755 diesel locomotive with the Flying Scotsman at the rear, allowing observers to photograph from railway bridges, back gardens, and platforms along the route.
Staff aboard noted that tickets remain available for dining car travel this weekend, featuring brunch, afternoon tea, and dinner Shakespeare Express services. Among the passengers was train enthusiast Toby Yelland, 25, who traveled from Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire for his first in-person sighting of the Flying Scotsman. Wearing a shirt that declared his passion, Toby shared his lifelong fascination with trains, inspired by childhood viewings of Thomas the Tank Engine, written by Reverend Wilbert Awdry during his curacy at St Nicolas Church near Kings Norton station.
Toby described the journey as a 'once-in-a-lifetime' opportunity, emphasizing the satisfaction of seeing steam pump from the funnel and pistons in motion. He expressed that while many view trains as child's play, he has grown to appreciate them even more as an adult, finding the experience of being pulled by the Scotsman's own steam unparalleled compared to visiting museums like the Railway Museum in York.
The event highlights Birmingham's rich railway heritage and community engagement, drawing visitors of all ages to witness this historic locomotive in action.
