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LNER Class A4 4468 Mallard

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description LNER Class A4 4468 Mallard Overview

LNER Class A4 No. 4468 Mallard is a streamlined British 4-6-2 Pacific steam locomotive built at Doncaster in 1938 to the design of Sir Nigel Gresley. On 3 July 1938, during a test run on Stoke Bank, it reached 126 miles per hour while hauling a train of coaches. That performance remains the officially recognized world speed record for a steam locomotive, although the run caused an overheated big-end bearing.

help LNER Class A4 4468 Mallard FAQ

Where and when did Mallard set its 126 mph steam record?

LNER Class A4 4468 Mallard reached 126 mph on 3 July 1938 during a brake test on Stoke Bank near Grantham. The run remains the officially recognized world speed record for a steam locomotive.

How is Mallard different from Flying Scotsman?

Both locomotives were designed by Nigel Gresley, but Mallard is an A4 built in 1938 while Flying Scotsman is an A3 built in 1923. Mallard used a more aerodynamic streamlined casing and newer exhaust technology.

Why was Mallard streamlined?

The streamlined casing reduced air resistance at high speed, which mattered for the fast East Coast Main Line services. Mallard also used a Kylchap exhaust system, one of the technical changes that helped make its 1938 record run possible.

Where is the original LNER A4 4468 Mallard preserved?

Mallard is preserved at the National Railway Museum in York, England. The museum's collection includes the locomotive and records from its 3 July 1938 run.

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