End of an Era: Iconic British Rail ‘Flying Banana’ HST Makes Its Final Journey After Fifty Years of Revolutionizing Rail Travel

Published on December 12, 2025

December 13, 2025, will mark the end of an era for British rail travel, as the iconic British Rail Class 43 High-Speed Trains (HSTs) make their final journey after 50 years of service. Known affectionately as the “Flying Banana” due to their distinctive yellow design, these trains revolutionized rail travel in the UK when they were first introduced in 1975. Since then, they have become synonymous with speed, innovation, and iconic British design.

The HSTs, also known as the InterCity 125, set numerous records during their long career, becoming the world’s fastest diesel train on conventional tracks, achieving speeds of up to 125mph. The trains were second only to Japan’s bullet train in terms of speed at the time. They were powered by two power cars and had a unique, sleek nose cone designed by industrial designer Sir Kenneth Grange, which helped make them one of the most recognizable trains in the world.

A Historical Milestone for British Rail

The HSTs first ran in 1975, with passenger services officially commencing in early 1976. The trains quickly became a cornerstone of British rail travel, dramatically cutting journey times and offering a faster, more comfortable travel experience across the UK. The trains were particularly notable for their modern design, high speed, and efficiency, and they became a symbol of British innovation in rail transport.

In addition to their speed, the HSTs also played an important role in the UK’s long-distance rail network, servicing major routes such as the Great Western Main Line, connecting cities like London, Bristol, and Plymouth. Over the years, the HST became a key part of British transportation history and was beloved by both passengers and rail enthusiasts.

However, after nearly five decades of service, the full-length GWR HSTs were officially withdrawn from the main Great Western Main Line services in May 2019. These were replaced by the modern Class 800 and 802 Hitachi Intercity Express Trains, which offer greater fuel efficiency and are part of the ongoing modernization of the UK’s rail network.

The Final Journey of the Castle Sets

While the full-length HSTs were phased out, shortened versions of the trains, featuring two power cars and four coaches, continued to operate on certain routes, such as Cardiff-Penzance, where electrification was not feasible. These “Castle” sets were the last remaining HSTs still in service and were used primarily for regional routes in the West Country. But now, even these final sets are being retired.

On December 13, 2025, the remaining “Castle” sets will make their last journeys in Devon and Cornwall, marking the final chapter in the HST’s remarkable history. The scheduled journeys include the 0515 Plymouth-Penzance, 0740 Penzance-Plymouth, 1015 Plymouth-Penzance, and 1315 Penzance-Plymouth, as well as additional services such as the 1516 Plymouth-Penzance and 1732 Penzance-Plymouth. A special additional working will be available for ticket holders.

The trains will then be lined up in Plymouth on the Saturday evening, as the last service of the HSTs draws to a close. This marks the end of an iconic era for British rail travel, as the HSTs, which have been a staple of the British transport system for nearly 50 years, retire from active service.

Global Farewell: HSTs Find New Life Abroad

While the HSTs are retiring from the UK rail network, they will not be forgotten. The trains will be exported to Mexico and Nigeria, where they will continue to serve on rail networks in these countries. This is a testament to the enduring legacy of the HST, which remains one of the most successful and enduring diesel train designs in the world. Some of the power cars will also find new roles in non-passenger service, such as with Railadventure for moving stock.

The move to sell the trains to international markets marks the end of their long service in the UK, but their legacy will live on in other parts of the world, where they will continue to serve as symbols of high-speed, diesel-powered rail travel.

Mixed Reactions to the Retirement of the HST

The retirement of the HSTs has received a mixed reception. Many train enthusiasts and rail fans have expressed sadness at the loss of the “Flying Banana,” considering it a crucial part of British rail history. For these fans, the end of the HST’s service is a nostalgic moment, marking the end of an era in rail travel.

However, not everyone shares this sentiment. Some passengers, particularly on social media platforms like Reddit, have expressed relief at the scrapping of the HSTs, calling them “noisy” and “smelly.” These critics argue that the trains have served their time and that it is time for more modern, efficient trains to take their place.

Despite the mixed reactions, there is no denying that the British Rail Class 43 HSTs have had a significant impact on the rail industry. For nearly 50 years, these trains were a key part of the British transport network, providing faster travel times and changing the way people experienced rail journeys.

The End of an Icon

The British Rail Class 43 HST, also known as the InterCity 125, is an icon in British rail history. From its distinctive yellow design to its powerful performance and sleek, aerodynamic shape, the HST became a symbol of British innovation in rail transport. As the remaining HSTs make their final journey on December 13, 2025, the UK will bid farewell to one of its most beloved trains.

While the retirement of the HSTs signals the end of an era, the legacy of these trains will continue to live on in the memories of rail fans, passengers, and the history of British transport. The HST’s influence on modern rail travel cannot be overstated, and it will always be remembered as one of the defining features of Britain’s rail network for nearly five decades.