Sunday, May 25, 2025

The iconic UK steam locomotive 60163 Tornado is making a thrilling comeback to mainline service, captivating railway enthusiasts and travelers alike. After a comprehensive overhaul, this powerful engine is set to lead the Atlantic Coast Express day trip, showcasing Britain’s most scenic rail routes. Its return offers a unique opportunity to experience the nostalgia and excitement of historic steam travel while enjoying breathtaking landscapes across seven counties.

This summer, steam train enthusiasts will be treated to an extraordinary experience as the legendary 60163 Tornado locomotive makes a highly anticipated return to mainline rail service. After undergoing a comprehensive overhaul that sidelined the locomotive for several years, Tornado will once again roar along the tracks, pulling The Atlantic Coast Express steam day trip organized by The Railway Touring Company. This remarkable journey offers a nostalgic glimpse into Britain’s rich railway heritage while showcasing one of the fastest and most impressive steam engines in the modern era.

The 60163 Tornado is no ordinary steam locomotive. Constructed in 2008, Tornado is uniquely recognized as the first brand-new mainline steam locomotive built in the United Kingdom since 1960. Crafted as a precise reproduction of the original Peppercorn Class A1 engines from the late 1940s, it combines classic engineering excellence with contemporary safety features and advanced performance capabilities, enabling it to to operate on today’s busy railway networks.

Sporting a striking British Railways green livery, the locomotive has become an icon in its own right. Since debuting, Tornado has covered more than one hundred thirty thousand miles on the mainline, captivating both passengers and railway enthusiasts with its powerful performance. Its exceptional speed was demonstrated in 2017 when it achieved a top velocity of one hundred miles per hour during test runs, making it the fastest steam locomotive to run on British rails since the 1960s.

Tornado’s appeal extends beyond the rail enthusiast community. The locomotive earned broad acclaim following its appearance in the beloved family movie Paddington 2, captivating viewers with its timeless design and commanding on-screen presence. The locomotive has also appeared on major television programs such as Top Gear and has had the honor of hauling prestigious Royal Trains, underscoring its status as one of Britain’s premier steam engines.

The upcoming Atlantic Coast Express journey promises to be a scenic and memorable day out, evoking the golden age of steam travel. Departing from London Waterloo station on August sixteenth, the train will head southwest, making stops at key locations including Woking and Basingstoke. Passengers will enjoy breathtaking views of the English countryside as the train steams along historic routes.

A highlight of the trip will be its passage to the cathedral city of Exeter, a destination steeped in history and charm. Here, travelers will have the chance to appreciate the city’s magnificent architecture and vibrant atmosphere, recalling the original Atlantic Coast Express trains that once connected London to the South West coast with speed and style.

On the return leg, the train will travel through the picturesque cities of Bristol and Bath, both known for their rich heritage and stunning Georgian architecture. This route offers travelers a unique combination of historic landmarks and the romance of steam travel, blending cultural exploration with a timeless mode of transportation.

Tornado’s return comes after a lengthy and meticulous overhaul carried out to maintain the locomotive’s mechanical excellence and operational safety. The restoration project included extensive work on its boiler, wheels, and other critical components, ensuring the engine meets stringent modern standards while preserving its authentic steam heritage.

Following this overhaul, Tornado successfully completed a series of mainline test runs to verify its readiness for service. These trials confirmed that the locomotive is in peak condition and prepared to deliver the exhilarating performance that has become its hallmark.

For those eager to experience this journey, ticket options cater to a variety of preferences and budgets. Standard adult fares start at one hundred thirty pounds, offering an affordable way to enjoy a full day of steam-powered adventure. For passengers seeking a more luxurious experience, premier class tickets are available for up to three hundred thirty-five pounds. These include a full English breakfast to start the day and a lavish four-course dinner served on board with elegant silver service, adding a touch of sophistication to the classic rail journey.

The trip is designed to captivate both seasoned rail aficionados and families looking to create unforgettable memories. With the opportunity to witness a truly historic locomotive in action and travel through some of England’s most scenic and culturally rich areas, the Atlantic Coast Express steam day trip is a celebration of Britain’s enduring railway legacy.

Tornado’s resurgence is a testament to the enduring appeal of steam locomotives in the modern age. While rail travel has evolved significantly over the past century, there remains a special place in the hearts of many for the sight, sound, and experience of steam engines powering their way across the landscape.

The 60163 Tornado embodies this passion, blending the nostalgia of traditional steam with cutting-edge engineering to ensure it remains a safe and reliable mainline performer. Its ability to reach high speeds and operate on contemporary rail networks makes it a unique bridge between history and today’s railway innovations.

The legendary UK steam locomotive 60163 Tornado returns to the mainline, leading the Atlantic Coast Express through stunning British landscapes. This revival offers a rare chance to experience the thrill of classic steam travel across seven counties.

With the summer launch of The Atlantic Coast Express day trip, Tornado’s return to the rails is more than just a celebration of past achievements; it is a bold statement of the future potential for steam heritage railways. As the locomotive journeys through seven counties, it will undoubtedly capture imaginations, inspire new generations of rail fans, and provide a thrilling day out steeped in history, culture, and the unmistakable charm of steam travel.

Whether it’s the thunderous chuffing of the engine, the gleaming polished brass, or the panoramic views from the vintage carriages, this steam adventure promises an immersive experience that transports passengers back to a golden era of British railways — all while traveling in comfort and style on one of the finest steam locomotives ever built.