End of an Era: The Royal Train's Final Journey
According to a recent proclamation from the Royal Household,the iconic Royal Train is set to be retired. This decision, revealed on June 30, comes after a thorough evaluation of its cost-effectiveness. While this train has historically provided secure and cozy travel for royal family members, it was only utilized twice in the year leading up to March 31, 2025. The royals have also been opting for regular train services more frequently and are encouraged by their staff expenses policy to prioritize train travel over cars for environmental reasons.
The review assessed various factors including maintenance costs, frequency of use, and the considerable investment needed to keep the train operational. additionally, wiht two leased helicopters now available as choice transport options, it made sense to reconsider its future. The decommissioning process is slated to start in the fiscal year of 2025-26 and will conclude by March 31, 2027—marking the end of an era when their current contract with DB Cargo UK expires.
This royal asset is managed by Network Rail and currently stored at Wolverton on the West Coast Main Line under DB Cargo UK’s care. In response to this news about ceasing operations of the royal train service, DB Cargo UK expressed deep sadness among its staff and within the wider rail community while committing to collaborate with the Royal Household on potential future uses.
The company shared that maintaining such a meaningful piece of national rail history has been both an honor and a joy over these past three decades. They noted how every journey garners attention from fans who capture images as it travels—a responsibility they took seriously in ensuring it always appeared immaculate for admirers along its route. The air of mystery surrounding its movements only heightened public interest during each appearance.
Content Original Link:
" target="_blank">
