Steam Legends Unite at Didcot Railway Centre

From 14 May to 2 June 2025, two legends of steam; Flying Scotsman and Pendennis Castle, will bring over a century of steam-powered history roaring back to life at Didcot Railway Centre.

This historic reunion marks a special chapter in railway lore, as these two giants of steam have not just their iconic status in common but something of a shared history: both were exhibited at the British Empire Exhibition in 1925; both were once owned by the late Sir William (Bill) McAlpine in the 1970s and both have steamed in Australia in the 1980s. Now, they're coming together once more for an unforgettable celebration of British engineering and heritage.

Flying Scotsman and Pendennis Castle doubleheading, whilst in Australia in 1989

No 4079 Pendennis Castle

In the 1920s, Great Western Railway's Pendennis Castle made waves when it was lent to the LNER for head-to-head trials with Sir Nigel Gresley's groundbreaking Pacific locomotives. Taking on 16-coach trains on the East Coast Main Line from King's Cross, this mighty Castle-class loco proved its mettle—outshining its rivals and earning the admiration of an entire generation.

In 1925, Pendennis Castle was proudly displayed alongside Flying Scotsman at the British Empire Exhibition in Wembley. A cheeky sign proclaimed it to be ‘the most powerful passenger express locomotive in Britain’—and its performance certainly backed up the claim!

Pendennis Castle at the British Empire Exhibition at Wembley in 1925

No.4079 left England in 1977 for Australia, where she was looked after by the Pilbara Railways Historical Society. A highlight of the Australian sojourn was a visit to Perth in 1989 to operate alongside her old rival Flying Scotsman as the climax of a tour during the country's bicentennial celebrations.  In 2000 Pendennis Castle was offered to Great Western Society and following a 10-week voyage finally regained British soil at Avonmouth. She has since been fully overhauled and now regularly features at Didcot open days.

The Global Star: Flying Scotsman

What more can be said about Flying Scotsman, the most famous steam locomotive in the world? Designed by Sir Nigel Gresley and introduced to service in 1923, it quickly became a symbol of speed, innovation, and style.

Named after the iconic daily London-to-Edinburgh service that began in 1862, Flying Scotsman achieved fame as the first locomotive to officially hit 100mph. Over the decades, it has captivated millions, becoming a global ambassador for Britain's railway heritage. She is now in the care of the National Railway Museum.

From nostalgic enthusiasts to first-time visitors, everyone will be awed by this extraordinary pairing of two steam titans. Whether you're captivated by Flying Scotsman's record-breaking feats or the enduring legacy of Pendennis Castle, this unique event promises a spectacle for the ages.

Tickets on sale Now!

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