24th March 1991

Grampian Air Charter & Grampian Railtours
Northern Belle

Loco Used 47617 'University of Stirling'
Stock Used ?????+5799

Route :
1Z40 : Aberdeen to Dufftown
1Z41 : Dufftown to Aberdeen

Loco Route
47617 Aberdeen - Dyce - Huntly - Keith Jn - Dufftown
47617 Dufftown - (reverse of outward route) - Aberdeen

Notes :
(1) Route & loco confirmation required (n.b. 47617 is believed to have been the only loco involved). This is widely stated as the last train to Dufftown (first being 21/02/1862). Some Internet sources seen by the Webmaster carry photos of 47617 on what is believed to be this train, but given as originating from Edinburgh and dated 25th March 1991 (both believed to be in error).
(2) At Dufftown tour participants were to be met by guides from the Glenfiddich Distillery for a tour and sampling. Return times for the train after departure from Dufftown were given as 'somewhat flexible'...
(3) 47617 was photographed during the day carrying several different headboards; at least 'The Highland Prince', 'Northern Belle' & 'Moray Model Group'.


John F. Kappler's ticket for the tour.

Source : various including John F. Kappler

Timings (Booked Only)
(from John F. Kappler)

Location Booked (out) Booked (rtn)
Aberdeen 10.03d (15.52a)
Inverurie ??.??a ~ 10.27d (15.26a ~ ??.??d)
Keith 11.13a ~ 11.20d ?
Dufftown 11.58a 13.40d


Back to "The Railtour Files"