We do occasionally get non-Pacers, mainly on the few services on our line run by ScotRail.
It is a scenic route, although I'm not far enough outside of Newcastle to get too much of the scenery.
I'll believe that when I see it, although I hope it does happen.
My trains to/from work are usually Pacers - incredibly uncomfortable, not helped by the lack of legroom (I'm 6'3'').