Flying Scotsman and the Best Birthday Ever illustration exhibition

See the full collection of original watercolours created for the beautiful new Flying Scotsman book, illustrated by Michael Foreman and written by Michael Morpurgo.

To mark 100 years of Flying Scotsman, Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman have created the stunning children’s book Flying Scotsman and the Best Birthday Ever. It tells the story of Iris, who dreams of being a train driver when she grows up, just like her dad, who drives Flying Scotsman.

This exhibition presents the first opportunity see the full collection of original watercolours illustrated by Michael Foreman for the book.

Flying Scotsman was built in Doncaster works, the first locomotive of the newly formed London and North Eastern Railway (LNER) and entered service on 24 February 1923. It was designed by Sir Nigel Gresley as part of the A1 class—the most powerful locomotives used by the LNER at the time.

Michael Foreman is an internationally renowned, multi award-winning children’s book illustrator and author. He has twice won the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal for British children’s book illustration.

This exhibition is a partnership between the National Railway Museum, Thames & Hudson, and Doncaster Council to celebrate the centenary of Flying Scotsman.