One of Britain's most iconic railway routes is set to make a stunning comeback within a matter of weeks.
LNER will restore the historic northbound Flying Scotsman route, with the landmark service departing from London King's Cross on May 18.
The train will leave the capital at 10.30am, heading north to Edinburgh in a revival of a tradition stretching back over a century.
This represents a significant change, as the service had been operating only in one direction and during earlier morning hours since 2011.
In late 2025, changes to the timetable enabled schedulers to return the departure to its famous mid-morning position.
Travellers heading northbound will stop at York and Newcastle before reaching Edinburgh Waverley at 2.39pm.
The Flying Scotsman has held a special place in British rail history since the 19th century.
Its route began operating in 1862, though it received its legendary name in 1924.
LNER will restore the historic Flying Scotsman service, departing from London King's Cross on May 18
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The service was renowned for its coordinated 10am departures from both London and Edinburgh at the same time, a feature the updated timetable seeks to recreate.
The locomotive associated with the name steamed to multiple world records, including becoming the first steam engine to officially hit 100mph.
Its international tours cemented its reputation as an enduring symbol of Britain's rail heritage.
Those hoping to travel by steam will need to adjust their expectations, however.
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The landmark service will depart King's Cross station at 10.30am, before heading north to Edinburgh
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LNER will operate the restored route using modern Azuma trains, combining contemporary amenities with the historic journey.
The launch celebrations will embrace Scottish culture, with Celtic rock group The Red Hot Chilli Pipers performing live aboard the inaugural services.
Passengers will also enjoy menus featuring classic Scottish dishes such as haggis, neeps and tatties.
LNER communications director Stuart Thomas said: "It’s fantastic to see the Flying Scotsman service move much closer to its historic departure timings.
The Flying Scotsman has held a special place in British railway history since the 19th century
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"The service became famous for its simultaneous 10am departures from London King’s Cross and Edinburgh, and these revised departure times are as close as we can get to that today.
"We’re really looking forward to The Red-Hot Chilli Pipers giving both the northbound and southbound services a rousing send-off.
"2026 is also the year the railway industry is marking Gresley 150, celebrating the life and legacy of Sir Nigel Gresley, whose designs helped define a golden age of rail travel."
LNER has also unveiled plans for its forthcoming Serenza fleet, which will bring significant upgrades to East Coast Main Line travel.