May arrived, The Stoney Express fired up, and The Stoney Crew said, “Aye, we’re in!” What followed was months of mayhem, magic, mischief, and way more passengers than we ever imagined possible.
The reception has been nothing short of extraordinary, and the joy it’s brought to Stonehaven could fill a book. Nearly six thousand passengers have climbed aboard, and the train has travelled the equivalent distance from Stoney to Athens — not bad for a wee engine with a big heart.
From our launch weekend in May, when the town turned out in force to welome The Stoney Express home, to the final autumn runs, TSE has been part of Stonehaven’s rhythm. We’ve carried hen parties, wedding guests, school groups, care home residents, community clubs, and hunnerts and hunnerts of tourists and day-trippers. If anyone’s been missed, we offer a heartfelt apology — every passenger has been part of this remarkable journey.
And what a journey it’s been. The Stoney Express has created thousands of memories — each one unique. From the glittering ABBA Express to the chaotic joy of the Scallywags Pirate Day Express, from the screamingly terrifying Halloween Tumchie specials to the gentle buzz of Community Events, we’ve seen it all. We helped open the Open-air Pool, joined the fun at the Fee’in Market, and as we rolled along we had the incredible sound of the Dunnottar Pipes and Drums behind us all the way. There are far too many moments to list from such an incredible time — and again, if we didn’t give you a mention, please accept our thanks all the same and be sure, every single one of you mattered. You were all part of something special.
On Remembrance Sunday, The Stoney Express took on a quieter, more sombre role — joining the town’s Rememberance Sunday Parade, adorned with poppies, to honour those who gave everything. So much of what we cherish — the joy, the freedom, the community spirit, and all the beauty life has to offer — may never have been possible without their ultimate sacrifice.
Lest We Forget.
Powered by Stonehaven: Toot Toot!
Stonehaven’s community — a town like no other.
To our sponsors — the community and business champions who backed The Stoney Express from day one:
Market Bar, Bucket & Spade, Economove, KMS, Stronach’s, RW Blackwood, The Ship, The Station, Fountain Hall Wines, Deeside Timber Frame, and Economove
Your support helped us keep the train running, the batteries charged, and the service consistent. More than that, you helped create something that brought people together — families, friends, visitors, and volunteers — for moments of joy and connection that will be remembered for years.
Thank you for being part of it.
And behind the scenes, a special thanks to those who made the day-to-day possible:
Logistics and practical support — A&I Taxis and Groundwater, MH Detailing, and the amazing volunteers. All of you made this happen.
Not enough can be said about The Stoney Crew. Their effort and commitment were central to making TSE such a brilliant experience for everyone. From early mornings to late nights, they kept things running smoothly — driving, loading, fixing, welcoming — always with good humour and a steady hand. And when the special runs rolled out, they didn’t just operate the train — they became the cast: pirates, pop stars, spooky spectres and more. They made every run feel special, and their contribution shaped the season from start to finish.
They were the engine behind the engine.
Stonehaven, you’ve shown what community really means. You rallied, you rode, you waved, you cheered. You made The Stoney Express not just a success, but a symbol of what happens when people come together with heart and humour.
So as a wrap for the season, it’s quite simply… thank you.
Haud the Train! We’re not quite done yet though. The Stoney Express will be back on Saturday 29th November for the Great Stoney Christmas Tree Switch-On — a huge event in the town calendar, just about as famous and as good as The Fireballs (some may even say it’s better!).
We’ll be doing short runs around the town that evening, so come on down, soak up the atmosphere, and support Stonehaven and TSE as we light up the season together. After that, wave goodbye to The Wee Train as we move off into the siding for a well earned rest — and yes, the secret planning for next year is already well underway.
So listen out… Toot Toot! Was that Santa’s sleigh — or something else entirely?
Watch this space!!
