Family Steam Train Ride | Black Bun Special at Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway

Today we’re sharing one of our favourite New Year traditions — riding the Black Bun Special steam train at Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway 🚂✨

Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway is a volunteer-run heritage railway in Scotland, dedicated to preserving historic steam trains and bringing Scotland’s rail history to life for visitors. Each year over Hogmanay and New Year, they run the Black Bun Special, a festive steam train journey that has become a much-loved tradition for many families.

In this video, we:

Ride the Black Bun Special steam train

Travel from Bo’ness to Manuel station

Enjoy tea, coffee, shortbread, and traditional Scottish black bun

Share the history of black bun and its connection to Hogmanay and first footing

Take a short stop at Manuel to explore the engines

Visit the station gift shop

This is a family-friendly day out in Scotland, perfect if you’re looking for:

Things to do over Hogmanay and New Year

A steam train experience for children

A cosy, nostalgic heritage railway journey

Traditional Scottish New Year customs

Whether you’re local or visiting Scotland during the festive season, the Black Bun Special at Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway is a lovely way to slow down, reflect, and start the New Year with something meaningful.

Thanks so much for watching — and happy Hogmanay! 🎆

Please like the video if you enjoyed it and consider subscribing to our channel for more Scottish adventures coming soon!

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thistlestopblog@gmail.com ✉️

00:00 Arriving at Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway
01:06 Boarding Our Compartment on the Train
02:28 Departing Bo’ness Station 🚂
06:24 Exploring Manuel Station & Engines
08:34 Tea, Coffee & Traditional Black Bun
10:14 Heading Back to Bo’ness
11:11 Back at Bo’ness Station & Gift Shop
12:38 Railway Map & Route Explained
12:48 Heading Home & Final Thoughts