Fancy a Jaunt to Edinburgh in 1900? Here's the Skinny on Travel Times (Without the Horse and Carriage!)
Ah, 1900. A time of top hats, horse-drawn carts, and... surprisingly speedy train travel! That's right, ditch the image of rickety stagecoaches for a more glamorous (well, as glamorous as it gets with soot-covered engines) journey north. But just how long did it take to get from London's bustling streets to Edinburgh's majestic castle in those days? Buckle up, history buffs (and potential time travelers), we're about to board the Victorian express!
The Race is On (Sort Of)
Believe it or not, there was a bit of a competition brewing between train companies in the late 1800s. Nicknamed the "Race to the North," these weren't exactly sanctioned drag races, but the East Coast Main Line and the West Coast Main Line were vying for bragging rights (and your precious travel time). By 1900, things had settled down a touch, but you could still expect a pretty speedy trip.
The Speedy Scotsman: The East Coast Main Line boasted the prestigious "Flying Scotsman" train. While it wouldn't quite live up to its name for another few decades, in 1900, this express train could whisk you from London to Edinburgh in a respectable 8.5 hours. Not bad for a world without podcasts or onboard Wi-Fi!
West Coast Woes (Not Really): The West Coast Main Line wasn't far behind. Their express trains offered a similar journey time, taking around 9 to 10 hours. So, the choice between the two likely came down to personal preference and maybe which route offered the better scenery (although, who wouldn't want to see Hadrian's Wall from the train?).
But Wait, There's More! (Because Victorian Travel Wasn't Always Smooth Sailing)
Now, before you start packing your tweed suit and tartan scarf, a few caveats. These were express trains, which meant fewer stops. Slower trains with more stops could easily add a few hours to your travel time. Also, keep in mind that even the express trains weren't immune to the occasional delay. A rogue cow on the tracks or a bout of particularly stubborn fog could throw a wrench in your meticulously planned itinerary.
Remember: Patience was a virtue in 1900 travel (and maybe it should be again these days!).
So, How Long Did it REALLY Take?
Here's the truth: It depended. For the speed demons, the express trains offered a surprisingly swift journey. But for the more leisurely traveler, or those who encountered the occasional hiccup, the trip could take a bit longer.
In a nutshell: Expect anywhere from 8.5 to 12 hours for your Victorian adventure from London to Edinburgh.
FAQ: Time Travel for Trainspotters (Just Kidding, But Here are Some Handy Tips)
How to Avoid Motion Sickness on a Steam Train? Fresh air and ginger ale were popular remedies in 1900. Maybe pack some Dramamine just in case (but don't tell anyone it's not period-appropriate).
How to Dress for a Train Journey in 1900? Pack layers! Train carriages could be chilly or stuffy depending on the season and the temperament of the coal stoker.
How to Entertain Yourself on a Train Without Electronics? Pack a good book, strike up a conversation with your fellow passengers, or simply enjoy the scenery! Who knows, you might even see a real-life Sherlock Holmes on his way to solve a case (or at least someone with a very impressive hat).
How to Tip the Porters in 1900? A small gratuity was always appreciated.
How Much Did a Train Ticket Cost in 1900? Prices varied depending on the class of carriage (first class was definitely not for the average Joe). Do some research to fit your budget (and maybe bring some extra pounds for souvenirs).
