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The UK has a new longest direct train route covering almost 500 miles from London to the top of Scotland after major changes in 2025. The Caledonian Sleeper, an overnight service running from London Euston to Fort William in Scotland, has emerged as the longest direct route in the country.

Covering only seven stops, the full journey still takes an epic 12 hours and 10 minutes, with passengers able to sleep on board. Travellers arrive at Euston at 9.15pm, before heading through iconic Scottish cities such as Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen.The train then takes the scenic West Highland Line through Crianlarich, Rannoch, and Spean Bridge.

Passengers then arrive in time for a Scottish breakfast, pulling into Fort William just after 9.25am the following day. Guests have a range of options from the cheaper "seated coach" with adjustable headrest and footrests.

The classic room features twin bunk beds, an in-room wash basin and the option of room service. A slightly fancier Club en-suite provides breakfast onboard and an en-suite shower room.

However, those who wish to ride in luxury can opt for the Caledonian Double en-suite, a private room. The Caledonian Sleeper offers a sumptuous food menu with everything from Scottish Porridge to bacon rolls or yoghurt bowls for breakfast.

The main menu features classics such as Venison stew with horseradish mashed potato and green beans and Lentil ragu with potato rosti. Passengers can also choose from Macsween's haggis, neeps and tatties with a whisky sauce or Lammermuir smoked cheddar mac and cheese with an optional parsley crumb.

Back in May 2025, the previous longest route was cancelled, elevating the Caledonian Sleeper route to the top of the list.

The previous Aberdeen to Penzance service was shortened with operator CrossCountry explaining the trip was axed due to create a "more efficient timetable".

Only one service was available on the route per day, with trains leaving Aberdeen at 8.20am and arriving a whopping 13 hours and 20 minutes later. The journey covered a staggering 785 miles and had run for more than 100 years after first being introduced back in 1921.

The route traversed some of England's most iconic landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle, Bamburgh Castle and the Royal Albert Bridge. The last service ran on May 16, with CrossCountry introducing their new timetable from May 18.