Edinburgh and Glasgow steam train tour dates announced

The much-anticipated 2022 tour dates for Scotland’s iconic Aberdonian steam train days out have been announced.
Have you booked your ticket for some of the best rail views in Scotland?Have you booked your ticket for some of the best rail views in Scotland?
Have you booked your ticket for some of the best rail views in Scotland?

A modern-day piece of engineering will be powering tourists on a nostalgic tour of Scotland this summer, with the option to upgrade to the premier dining experience.

The Aberdonian steam train will be taking day-trippers on its regular route from Edinburgh to Aberdeen, with a new route from Glasgow also growing in popularity.

Powering passengers along the track is the steam locomotive Tornado, which may look perfectly at home in a period drama but was actually built and completed by volunteers in 2008. During its years in service it has pulled Royal trains, starred in Paddington 2, and seen Jeremy Clarkson shovel coal on board as a Fireman in Top Gear.

It is also the first steam locomotive to reach 100mph since the 1960s, so it’s the all-round celebrity star of the train tracks.

The route

Day-trip passengers boarding at Waverley or Haymarket will cross the iconic Forth Bridge and head up the stunning Fife coast. The railway weaves its way along the clifftop from Dundee via Montrose and Stonehaven before reaching Aberdeen, where passengers will have four hours to spend in the city before returning south. The views from the train are sensational, making it the perfect day out for tourists near and far.

Sophie Bunker-James from Tornado Steam Traction Ltd said: “Our popular off train options include coach tours to local castles and distilleries for passengers to get a real taste of Aberdeenshire; we are hopeful to resume these great additions to the day this summer!”

Steam trains, fine dining and unrivalled coastal views – this could be the perfect day out in ScotlandSteam trains, fine dining and unrivalled coastal views – this could be the perfect day out in Scotland
Steam trains, fine dining and unrivalled coastal views – this could be the perfect day out in Scotland

Dates available in 2022

Thursday 21st July 2022

Thursday 28th July 2022

Saturday 30th July 2022

Saturday 20th August 2022

Thursday 1st September 2022

Thursday 8th September 2022

Saturday 17th September 2022

Prices start from £99.00

You can find more information here.

A taste of nostalgia

Whatever day trip you are looking for The Aberdonian with Tornado can deliver.

Love your food? Book the Premier Dining package with fresh, seasonal food served up as you steam along the route. With silver service for all meals, each freshly prepared on the train by the elite team of chefs, there is no better way to travel! Dining passengers can look forward to a full Scottish breakfast on the outward journey and a relaxed four-course dinner on the way home, as the station lights twinkle and Tornado’s reassuring rhythmical exhaust sets the seal on a memorable day out.

Passengers can be sure of a wonderful day out in Tourist Class, where every seat is aligned with a window to take in the scenery as it passes by. Or you can upgrade to First Class seating where passengers can look forward to luxurious surroundings, travelling in a comfortable and roomy seat with curtains by the windows. Enjoy complimentary teas, coffee and light snacks served throughout the day.

First and Tourist Class passengers may wish to bring a picnic, or indulge at the on-board buffet where a selection of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches and snacks are available.

On a tour with Tornado the journey along this scenic route is as important as the destination. Passengers enjoy a day filled with nostalgia, travelling in authentic 1950s carriages.

Want to bring Rover on your adventure? Tourist Class is proud to be dog-friendly!

Don’t miss out

The Aberdonian trip is only available on selected days this summer, and is expected to sell out fast. You can book online or phone 01325 488215 to speak to the friendly team and book your spot on a nostalgic day-trip. Prices start from £99 per person.

You can see the full range of steam train tours available here.