London mail train underground

The London Mail Train, also known as the "Mail Train" or "The Flying Scotsman of the Mail", was a special train that ran on the London Underground (Tube) network from 1915 to 1970. Its purpose was to transport mail and parcels between London's main post offices and the General Post Office (GPO) in London.

Here are some interesting facts about the London Mail Train:

  1. Unique route: The Mail Train ran on a special route that avoided busy passenger lines, using disused tunnels and sidings to minimize delays. It traveled from Paddington Station to Liverpool Street Station, covering a distance of approximately 10 miles (16 km).
  2. Special trains: The Mail Train was a dedicated service, with its own fleet of trains, crew, and maintenance team. The trains were modified to accommodate large quantities of mail and parcels, with special compartments and sorting facilities on board.
  3. Fast and efficient: The Mail Train was designed to be fast and efficient, with a top speed of around 30 mph (48 km/h). It could carry up to 100 tons of mail and parcels per trip, making it a vital part of London's postal network.
  4. Iconic locomotives: The Mail Train was hauled by iconic London Underground locomotives, such as the E-Class and the A60 Class. These locomotives were specially designed for the Mail Train service and were known for their distinctive appearance and powerful performance.
  5. Decline and eventual closure: As the volume of mail and parcels decreased with the advent of electronic communication, the Mail Train service began to decline. The last Mail Train ran in 1970, and the service was eventually discontinued due to the increasing costs and decreasing demand.
  6. Legacy: Although the Mail Train is no longer in operation, its legacy lives on in the London Underground's postal heritage. The service played a vital role in maintaining London's postal network during times of war and peace, and its history is still celebrated by rail enthusiasts and postal historians today.

The London Mail Train is a fascinating piece of London's transportation history, and its story is a testament to the importance of efficient and reliable postal services in the city.