The A1 Steam Locomotive Trust
About the Trust
In 1990 a group of people came together to share an extraordinary ambition – to construct a brand new Peppercorn A1 Pacific. They formed The A1 Steam Locomotive Trust and after nineteen years of incredible effort that locomotive, No. 60163 Tornado, moved under its own power for the first time in 2008.
This website tells the story of Tornado’s construction, an amazing tale of cooperation, skill and sheer hard graft which defied the critics who said it could never be done. The A1 Trust has over 2500 regular supporters (covenantors) who have all played some part, small or large, in guaranteeing that we have steam on the main line in the 21st Century.
Tornado is now fulfilling the dream, hauling specials on the mainline and giving joy to thousands of passengers and linesiders who want to witness the legend in action. You can be part of this by travelling with us or by becoming a covenantor, helping us to raise the funds to keep the dream alive.
Make a donation
2021 Main Line Tours
Tornado will be operating on the main line throughout 2021 and we are pleased to present our programme.
Latest News
The Trust respectfully requests that anyone wanting to see Tornado follows the rules of the railway and only goes where permitted.
Travel with Tornado
Tornado and Flying Scotsman
September 2021
For the very first time, travel with both Tornado and Flying Scotsman over the Settle and Carlisle Railway!
The Aberdonian
Summer 2021
Join us from EDINBURGH Waverley and Haymarket Stations.
Starting in Edinburgh and crossing the Forth Bridge, the train runs along the coast for much of its route making it an unrivalled way to experience Scotland. In Aberdeen there is a chance to explore this historic city, or take one of our off train excursions that include a castle or distillery visit.
The Ribblehead Rambler
Saturday 13th March 2021
Join Tornado from Hull for the first time, crossing the spectacular Yorkshire Dales on a railtour to Carlisle.
Step aboard from HULL, BROUGH, GILBERDYKE, SELBY AND LEEDS.
The Fen and Fells Flyer
Saturday 27th March 2021
Join Tornado for a springtime excursion from East Anglia to Carlisle taking in the iconic Settle and Carlisle Railway.
Step aboard from CAMBRIDGE, ELY, MARCH, PETERBOROUGH and NEWARK.
The Clyde Aberdonian
Join us from Glasgow Central and Stirling
Monday 5th April
Join us for our first departure from Glasgow as ‘The Clyde Aberdonian’ takes you on a beautiful steam hauled journey to Aberdeen.
The Caledonian
Saturday 10th April
Join us from: Birmingham New Street, Tame Bridge Parkway, Wolverhampton, Stafford and Crewe.
Join Tornado for a wonderful day out from the West Midlands to Scotland’s capital city. Steam north to discover Edinburgh’s historic city centre packed with shops, museums and bars.
The Cumbrian Explorer
Saturday 8th May
Join us from: Darlington, Thirsk, York, Leeds and Skipton.
A wonderful journey from the home of Tornado in Darlington crossing some of the most scenic railway in England. The train takes us across the dramatic landscape of the Settle and Carlisle Railway, before returning along the stunning Cumbrian Coast.
The Jorvik Express
Saturday 15th May
Join us from: Liverpool, Newton-le-Willows and Manchester Victoria
For the first time, passengers from Liverpool are invited to step aboard and enjoy a wonderful tour with Tornado. Pausing for passengers in Manchester before crossing the beautiful Pennine landscape, the train heads to the historic city of York.
The Pennine Explorer
Saturday 22nd May
Join us from: Leicester, East Midlands Parkway, Derby, and Chesterfield.
Join us as we travel from the East Midlands to Carlisle and return including the magnificent Settle and Carlisle Railway. Our tour also includes the stunning Tyne Valley line that crosses Hadrian’s Wall through the beautiful Northumberland scenery.
Valentine's Luncheon Circular Tour
POSTPONED DUE TO LOCKDOWN
Join us from: York, Thirsk & Darlington
Treat your loved one to the romance of steam on board our circular tour. Our route along the East Coast Main Line, the route locomotive was designed for, with a great mix of speed and beautiful rolling scenery.
Valentine's Evening Circular Tour
POSTPONED DUE TO LOCKDOWN
Join us from York
Our evening Valentine’s tour is a great way to mark the romantic occasion; sit back and watch the lights twinkle by. This will also be the first time Tornado has visited Harrogate and Knaresborough.
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