Probably the most famous steam locomotive in the world, the Flying Scotsman will be visiting London this coming Saturday.
A heritage railway operator, Steam Dreams will be running a couple of tours out of Victoria station on Saturday 3rd June so there is a good chance to see the famous steam train chugging through London.
A word of warning though.
Some rail fans have a tendency to get a bit too close to the action — not just dangerous for them, but it causes delays to the rest of the railway.
The British Transport Police say that they will have additional patrols at stations to keep an eye on the crowds.
“If you are planning to go and see the Flying Scotsman; please plan ahead, use safe vantage points to view and take pictures of the train, stay clear of the line and do not risk your safety and that of others by trespassing on the tracks.”
Because of past problems with over keen train spotters, details about the exact times it will pass through stations will not be released, especially for the rural areas where track-side access is much easier, but you can take a punt at the following:
The Flying Scotsman will be leaving Victoria station at 10:12am heading out of London, and looks likely to be heading via Kensington Olympia, Willesden Junction, South Acton and Hounslow.
The return trip is expected to be via East Croydon, Crystal Palace, Tulse Hill, Brixton and arriving in Victoria around 2pm.
There is then expected to be a second departure at 5pm, heading out via Clapham Junction, Barnes and Richmond, then returning to Victoria, probably via East Croydon for 11:15pm.
Personally, I’d recommend watching from footbridges and roads along the route, as stations themselves are likely to be very busy, and frankly, I find you get a better view from a bit further back anyway.
