Iconic overnight 417-mile train journey that takes passengers to the Scottish Highlands
After more than a century of service, the UK's longest train journey has reached the end of the line. The historic Aberdeen to Penzance route, which began in 1921, made its final trip on May 16.
The final trip marked the end of a 775-mile journey that connected Scotland's North East coast with the far south west of Cornwall. CrossCountry, which operated the service, said it had been withdrawn to allow for a 'more efficient timetable.'
Now, the longest direct train ride in Britain is the Aberdeen to Plymouth service, clocking in at 695 miles. But for those who believe a rail journey should be more than just distance, the Caledonian Sleeper offers something far more memorable, The Mirror reports.
Running from London Euston to Fort William, this overnight service glides through the spine of Britain into the heart of the Highlands.
The route covers 417 miles and calls at 18 stations, including the historic capital of Edinburgh, Glasgow Queen Street, and the seaside town of Helensburgh, before rolling into Fort William beneath the shadow of Ben Nevis.
Board in the evening and you'll wake up either in a new city or greeted by breathtaking Highland views.
Travellers can snooze their way across the country in private rooms and step off the train refreshed, right in the heart of their destination.
There's more than just scenery on offer. The Club Car invites guests to enjoy a drink, a meal, or a snack, with a menu celebrating some of Scotland's finest local produce.
From hand-picked single malts and craft gins to hearty dishes made with regional ingredients, it's a true taste of Scotland on the move. Accommodation options are designed for comfort and convenience.
Those seeking extra privacy can book a Caledonian Double with a double bed or a Club Room with twin bunks, both of which include en-suite shower and toilet facilities, complimentary breakfast, and priority access to the Club Car.
Families and groups can choose a Classic Room with bunk beds, which can also interconnect to the room next door.
Budget travellers can opt for a seat in the seated coach, the most economical way to travel, with a special menu available for delivery to your seat.
Travellers heading southbound from Scotland should look for services after 19:00 (or after 20:00 if departing from Edinburgh Waverley), while those departing northbound from London Euston should search for trains after 21:00.
The Caledonian Sleeper runs six nights a week from Sunday to Friday, and tickets can be booked up to 12 months in advance.
Caledonian Sleeper train route
London Euston 21:15
Crewe 23:45
Preston 00:30
Edinburgh 04:50
Glasgow Queen Street 05:48
Dalmuir 06:06
Dumbarton Central 06:17
Helensburgh Upper 06:33
Garelochhead 06:47
Arrochar & Tarbet 07:09
Ardlui 07:25
Crianlarich 07:48
Upper Tyndrum 08:02
Bridge of Orchy 08:18
Rannoch 08:45
Corrour 09:00
Tulloch 09:21
Roy Bridge 09:31
Spean Bridge 09:39
Fort William 10:00
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Daily Record
18 hours ago
- Daily Record
Iconic overnight 417-mile train journey that takes passengers to the Scottish Highlands
Aberdeen to Plymouth is now the UK's longest direct train at 695 miles, but the Caledonian Sleeper offers a more memorable experience After more than a century of service, the UK's longest train journey has reached the end of the line. The historic Aberdeen to Penzance route, which began in 1921, made its final trip on May 16. The final trip marked the end of a 775-mile journey that connected Scotland's North East coast with the far south west of Cornwall. CrossCountry, which operated the service, said it had been withdrawn to allow for a 'more efficient timetable.' Now, the longest direct train ride in Britain is the Aberdeen to Plymouth service, clocking in at 695 miles. But for those who believe a rail journey should be more than just distance, the Caledonian Sleeper offers something far more memorable, The Mirror reports. Running from London Euston to Fort William, this overnight service glides through the spine of Britain into the heart of the Highlands. The route covers 417 miles and calls at 18 stations, including the historic capital of Edinburgh, Glasgow Queen Street, and the seaside town of Helensburgh, before rolling into Fort William beneath the shadow of Ben Nevis. Board in the evening and you'll wake up either in a new city or greeted by breathtaking Highland views. Travellers can snooze their way across the country in private rooms and step off the train refreshed, right in the heart of their destination. There's more than just scenery on offer. The Club Car invites guests to enjoy a drink, a meal, or a snack, with a menu celebrating some of Scotland's finest local produce. From hand-picked single malts and craft gins to hearty dishes made with regional ingredients, it's a true taste of Scotland on the move. Accommodation options are designed for comfort and convenience. Those seeking extra privacy can book a Caledonian Double with a double bed or a Club Room with twin bunks, both of which include en-suite shower and toilet facilities, complimentary breakfast, and priority access to the Club Car. Families and groups can choose a Classic Room with bunk beds, which can also interconnect to the room next door. Budget travellers can opt for a seat in the seated coach, the most economical way to travel, with a special menu available for delivery to your seat. Travellers heading southbound from Scotland should look for services after 19:00 (or after 20:00 if departing from Edinburgh Waverley), while those departing northbound from London Euston should search for trains after 21:00. The Caledonian Sleeper runs six nights a week from Sunday to Friday, and tickets can be booked up to 12 months in advance. Caledonian Sleeper train route London Euston 21:15 Crewe 23:45 Preston 00:30 Edinburgh 04:50 Glasgow Queen Street 05:48 Dalmuir 06:06 Dumbarton Central 06:17 Helensburgh Upper 06:33 Garelochhead 06:47 Arrochar & Tarbet 07:09 Ardlui 07:25 Crianlarich 07:48 Upper Tyndrum 08:02 Bridge of Orchy 08:18 Rannoch 08:45 Corrour 09:00 Tulloch 09:21 Roy Bridge 09:31 Spean Bridge 09:39 Fort William 10:00
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Daily Mirror
UK's most unique train ride covers 417-miles of scenery but has a big catch
Watch the skyscrapers fade away and marvel at endless stretches of unspoilt country side and rugged mountains with this legendary train journey that spans a staggering 417 miles The UK's longest train journey has ceased operating after more than 100 years, casting light on an incredible alternative. Established back in 1921, the Aberdeen to Penzance route spanned an impressive 775 miles, and used to depart from the Scottish city at 8.20am. The journey, operated by CrossCountry, took more than 13 hours and stopped at 41 stations on the way - including Leeds, Bristol, and Truro. However, on May 16, the acclaimed route made its very last journey - as CrossCountry confirmed the service was being axed to make room for a 'more efficient timetable'. Now, the longest direct UK train route is the connection between Aberdeen and Plymouth, which covers a still-impressive 695 miles. READ MORE: Major UK tunnel on the verge of tolls to plug huge £820k funding gap But, if you're looking for a more magical experience, you need to step on board the Caledonian Sleeper. Departing from London and travelling some 417 miles up to Fort William in the lush Scottish Highlands, this unique journey features 18 stops on the way - including the historic city of Edinburgh and the quaint coastal resort of Helensburgh. It departs London Euston at 21.15 Monday through Friday and whizzes passengers out of the bustling city and into the rolling countryside. At 10am, you'll be greeted with stunning mountain views of Fort William, home to the UK's highest peak (Ben Nevis). Due to being a sleeper train and operating through the night - you'll likely miss most of the scenery from your window when you depart from the Big Smoke. However, if you're travelling in the summer months, the sun will begin to rise at around 4.30am in Scotland - meaning you'll catch a glimpse at Edinburgh during its golden hour - and can soak in all of the breathtaking vistas for the last six hours of the journey. Caledonia Sleeper train route London Euston 21:15 Crewe 23:45 Preston 00:30 Edinburgh 04:50 Glasgow Queen Street 05:48 Dalmuir 06:06 Dumbarton Central 06:17 Helensburgh Upper 06:33 Garelochhead 06:47 Arrochar & Tarbet 07:09 Ardlui 07:25 Crianlarich 07:48 Upper Tyndrum 08:02 Bridge of Orchy 08:18 Rannoch 08:45 Corrour 09:00 Tulloch 09:21 Roy Bridge 09:31 Spean Bridge 09:39 Fort William 10:00 Unlike the Aberdeen to Plymouth route, the Caledonian Sleeper train boasts regal carriages that feel like you've stepped back in time. There is a range of accommodation types, including double en-suite rooms for those wanting to splash out and admire the scenery in style, and standard seats for those on a budget. However, taking a trip on the Caledonian Sleeper isn't the cheapest. For example, staying in a Classic twin bunk bed room on Wednesday, July 9, will set you back a staggering £295. Reservations fill up fast, so if you're wanting to check out this majestic route - make sure to book ahead. *Prices based on Caledonian Sleeper's website at the time of writing.
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Daily Mirror
Eurostar train evacuated after passengers left stranded with 'no air or toilets'
Passengers were left stranded on a Eurostar train for more than five hours, and have finally been evacuated out of the carriages. People have blasted the service for a lack of communication, with passengers saying they have no idea when they'll be picked up. One passenger said the bathrooms were not working and there was no ventilation on the stranded train. The train is believed to be stuck by Guines which is close to Calais. One passenger told of paramedics onboard, treating people who have become unwell. The man told The Mirror: "We're stuck on Eurostar tracks near Guines... They said both of the engines are out of service and we need a new train to take us... There's no toilets. Zero communication from staff on board. None. The only info we get is from Twitter." Members of Stornoway, a British indie folk band, are among stranded Eurostar passengers. After people were allowed to leave their train, they took their guitars out and started singing, social media videos show. After 6h on a broken-down Eurostar we cracked out the guitars to remind everybody #theOnlyWayIsUp Passengers have managed to get out of the train but there has been "no communication" so far from Eurostar, one has claimed. Photos shared on social media show people lining by the side of the train while waiting for an update on the incident. A person tweeted: "After 5 hours… people get out. Still no communication. No new train." After 5 hours… people get out. Still no communication. No new train. A traveller onboard the stuck train took to X to ask Eurostar what was happening as they said old and young people on the train appeared to not be doing well. The worried passenger said: "What's the latest? I'm on the train. No air conditioning and Elderly and young children clearly struggling with no water. This traveller also raged about the apparent lack of information and updates that were given to them, adding: "Communication from staff is poor and generally the whole situation is a shambles." A passenger on board the stationary train near Calais has said that air conditioning isn't working "The air conditioning has also been out for most of the time. Took them two hours to open doors," he told The Mirror. "Trains routinely pass us, but nobody stops to help us." Of a possible medical incident onboard he said: "Paramedics from Calais have been called twice now and are on the train. Unclear what happened, but two sets of paramedics from Calais have come onto the train." A passenger has told The Mirror that there are people unwell on the stuck train which has two engines out of service. He said: "We're stuck on Eurostar tracks near Guines. It's we've been here for about four hours now. They said both of the engines are out of service and we need a new train to take us. "They've said it's coming at 130, but nothing. Conditions aren't great - paramedics are on board and triaging people. There's no toilets. Zero communication from staff on board. None. The only info we get is from Twitter." A woman with children claims that she is stuck on a stationary Eurostar train in "inhumane conditions". "I am on this train with two small children who are overheating! There are no toilets, there is no air, these are inhumane conditions. There is still no replacement!!!!," she wrote on X. Eurostar replied: "Hi Valentina, we're sorry about the situation with your train today. Please remain seated and wait for instructions from the onboard team, as we are arranging a replacement train. Thank you for your understanding and patience." And the woman told how people were feeling ill inside the carriage. She responded to Eurostar: "Do you have an updated timeline? We've been waiting without air and with overflowing toilets for 4 hours. 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One traveller received a message on X from the operator stating: "We're sending a replacement train to take you to London, which should arrive shortly. You'll need to leave the train. For your own safety, please remain seated for now and wait for instructions from our onboard team." Eurostar passengers travelling recently were warned to cancel or postpone their trips as chaos erupted after two people were killed on the railway near Lille in France. Those travelling between London St Pancras International and Gare Du Nord in Paris were delayed for seven hours in both directions on June 24, with some having their trains called altogether. The knock on effects of the delays was still affecting travellers the next day. The French section also faced more disruption a day later after cables were stolen and cut overnight in what the French authorities are calling a "a malicious act". Serge de Gheldere in London wrote on X: "Almost 3h. Still no news, no air. This is not just an incident or bad luck. "@Eurostar is absolutely clueless and unprepared. There is no olan(sic). Instead of opening the doors and trusting the people, they only have one or two doors open and let people almost suffocate. There's asthma patients and infants on board."
