Sleeper trains in the UK

Caledonian Sleeper

This sleeper train from London to Scotland (and vice versa) runs six nights a week, offering different journeys on Highlander and Lowlander routes. Both Caledonian Sleeper routes depart from London Euston station:

• The Highlander route takes you to popular Scottish destinations like Aberdeen, Inverness, and Fort William. The Inverness service calls at Aviemore in the Cairngorms national park and Corrour – the most remote station in the UK.
• The Lowlander route takes you to Glasgow and Edinburgh. The train splits in the early hours of the morning, taking passengers to Edinburgh Waverly or Glasgow Central.

There are several seating options available on the Caledonian Sleeper, from Double Rooms to Comfort Seating. Learn more about Caledonian Sleeper or Caledonian Sleeper First Class tickets.

Image: "92023 Caledonian Sleeper at Glasgow" by D.J.H Photography is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Image: "66743 Tay Bridge" by Derek Hoskins is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

Belmond Royal Scotsman

Not available on Trainline

This luxury sleeper train offers scenic tours around the Scottish Highlands, from three- to five-day trips depending on which package you opt for. More like a cruise than a way of getting from A to B, hop onboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman to enjoy Scotland’s breath-taking scenery, fine dining and even an on-board spa. The Royal Scotsman follows two routes:

• The Classic Splendours route takes you on a 5-day round trip from Edinburgh to Kyle of Lochalsh, Boat of Garten, Rothiemurchus and back to Edinburgh. Prices start at £6,200.
• The Taste of the Highlands route goes from Edinburgh to Rothiemurchus and back to Edinburgh for a shorter, three-day excursion. Prices start at £3,200.

All cabins feature plush bedding, luxurious Scottish décor and en suite facilities. Find out more about the Belmond Royal Scotsman.

The Night Riviera

This sleeper train from London to Cornwall (and vice versa) is a Great Western Railway service that travels overnight through Devon on its way to scenic Penzance. Think of the Night Riviera as a moving hotel – recently refurbished carriages mean modern décor, a stylish Lounge car complete with a trendy bar and cosy airline-style seating. And, don’t forget the comfy beds that’ll give you a fantastic night’s sleep!

The route begins at London Paddington at 22:30, travelling through the night to Cornwall. The service calls at Truro, St Erth and finally at Penzance, among other stops.

Image: "57603 Night Riviera from Paddington to Penzance" by Train Photos is licensed by CC BY-SA 2.0

Seating carriages

The most cost-effective way to travel on sleeper trains, seating carriages feature wider than normal, plush seats that recline when you’re ready to sleep. These airline-style seats often have their own fold-down tables or can be seated around tables of four – ideal for those travelling in a group. 

Sleeper cabins

The most comfortable way to travel on sleeper trains, most cabins feature cosy beds with duvets and pillows, a wash basin and selection of toiletries. Some cabins also feature en-suite bathrooms, depending on which overnight train you’re travelling on. Go full of luxury and book a cabin to yourself, or if you’re travelling as a group, there’s sometimes an option to book a two-person cabin with connecting doors. 

Lounge bar 

Most overnight trains in the UK will feature a Lounge or buffet car to venture to during your journey for snacks, drinks or just to stretch your legs. Depending on the service, the lounge bar is usually open for the duration of your train journey and can be an enjoyable place to relax and socialise.  

Good to know – on some overnight services only passengers in sleeper cabins have access to the Lounge bar.