Railways Unlimited 

FLYING SCOTSMAN (1929) ​

High-velocity emotions race down the tracks in this rare 1929 Biritish silent drama with Live Wurlitzer Organ Accompaniment by Donald MacKenzie. Speed, sabotage and romance starring Moore Marriott, Pauline Johnson & Ray Milland plus a full-throttle railway support programme.

A High-Speed Classic Directed by Denison Clift, The Flying Scotsman is a quintessential British thriller that captures the excitement of the golden age of steam. The film is famously set almost entirely aboard the legendary express train that ran between London and Edinburgh.

The Plot The story follows Bob, a veteran stoker on the famous locomotive, who is nearing retirement. When he is unfairly accused of negligence and dismissed, his daughter, Joan, takes matters into her own hands to clear his name. What follows is a tense, race-against-time drama that unfolds amidst the rhythmic clatter and steam of the iconic train.

Why It’s Special

• Authentic Setting: The production team was granted permission to film on the actual Flying Scotsman train, providing a level of realism that was groundbreaking for 1929.
• A Rising Star: The film features an early performance by Ray Milland, who would later go on to become a major Hollywood star and Academy Award winner.
• The Silent Era Transition: Released during the pivotal moment when cinema was transitioning from silent films to sound, this film represents the pinnacle of silent storytelling—relying on visual tension, pacing, and atmosphere to keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

Event Details

• Date: Sunday, 20 September 2026
• Time: 2:30 PM start.
• Location: Kew Bridge Kinema at The Musical Museum
• Ticket Price: £15 Adult, £8 Child 
  

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The Kew Bridge Kinema at The Musical Museum

The Kew Bridge Kinema at The Musical Museum is truly unique. It is the UK's only repertory series featuring live Wurlitzer organ accompaniment to silent classic film in the UK.

A Century of Cinematic Tradition In January 1925, the first Wurlitzer organ was opened in a British cinema. These remarkable instruments were originally designed to accompany moving pictures. More than a century later, we are keeping this art alive at the Museum, allowing new generations to experience the thrill of the golden age of silent cinema. We select a compelling mix of beloved classics together with lesser-known titles, chosen to captivate modern audiences.

Artistry in Residence We are delighted that Donald MacKenzie is our Silent Film Artist in Residence. He curates each programme, introduces the films and performs an exciting and enthralling improvised score and provides a live, improvised score on the Museum's "Mighty Wurlitzer". The premiere renowned artist in his field, he is excited to be part of this project. 

Visitor Information Advance booking is recommended for all the programmes. Our licensed café is open before each film serving snacks and drinks. Most screenings include an interval, providing guests an additional opportunity to enjoy our facilities and refreshments.