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Incredible 429-mile UK train journey that passengers say is one of the best in the world
Reach Daily Express | January 18, 2026 5:39 PM CST

An incredible UK sleeper train journey has wowed tourists from Britain and abroad, offering up unparalleled views of England and Scotland as it takes voyagers on a 429-mile adventure. Sleeper trains are a preferred method of travel for many. There is no hanging around the airport before a flight, and you travel overnight as you sleep, so you don't waste any of your day. Meanwhile, you wake up in the heart of the city you have travelled to, meaning no commuting once you get off the train.

The London to Edinburgh sleeper train, called the Caledonian Sleeper, has views that have been described as "spectacular" by previous passengers. The train goes between the two capital cities daily from Sunday to Friday. Departing London's Euston Station at 9.30pm, the train pulls into Edinburgh at 4.44am, but you don't have to exit your cabin until 8am. While it is a sleeper train, you might want to catch the sunrise for some of the best views of the UK.

There are several accommodation options available. For those on a budget, they can simply book a standard train seat for £54. However, private cabins with bunk beds or even double beds are also available for those in search of a good night's sleep, with prices increasing to over £200 and £300 for these rooms.

Onboard, you also have the Club Car, where you will be able to get a selection of food and drinks to make the most of the experience. Ropom service is also available for those in private cabins.

Expect to indulge in delights like a selection of Scottish cheese, Haggis, Neeps and Tatties, all to be enjoyed with crafted beers, wines and whiskies.

The experience has been praised by many who have done it before. One reviewer, Ted Thornhill from The Independent, said it's a solid contender for the world's greatest rail journey.

The full rail journey stretches from London to Fort William, passing through Glasgow, Edinburgh and Inverness. Rail operators say it's a more sustainable travel method than flying, using 0.375 less CO2 per mile travelled.

While reviews are mixed, many praised the service on the train as well as the views you get throughout the journey. One TripAdvisor user shared: "The train came into Euston early, and the route had some spectacular views of the highlands."

Another said: "The rooms were quiet and the views along the journey were peaceful. The space was small, but it was designed to maximise every inch. This is definitely a very cool way to travel. It was very cost-effective to travel at night and wake up in Scotland."

However, this method of travel isn't for everyone. Some reviews complained about the lack of space and the price.

One reviewer said of their experience: "I had been genuinely excited for this trip; the route's scenic reputation and the premium accommodation had set high expectations. While the views were indeed stunning, the onboard experience was extremely disappointing and fell far below acceptable standards."

Another, writing on Reddit, shared: "I've done the journey from London to Inverness. Didn't get much sleep. Don't know why they don't upgrade them to airline-type business class seats."

After the cancellation of the historic Aberdeen to Penzance train last year, this train journey is now the longest in the UK, and it seems to be a bucket-list item for many people.


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