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A unique way to travel between scotland & london, magical uk destinations.
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Explore Scotland's capital
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Explore Scotland's biggest city
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Explore the granite city
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Explore the city of Discovery
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Explore the capital of the highlands
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Leuchars (for St Andrews)
Explore the home of golf
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Explore the home of the 'Smokie'
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Arrochar and Tarbet
Explore Loch Lomond and Loch Long
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Fort William
Explore the home of Ben Nevis
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Explore the home of Dunottar Castle
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Explore the Cairngorms National Park
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Explore Loch Etricht and Ben Alder
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Explore Loch Ossian and Rannoch Moor
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Bridge of Orchy
Explore Beinn Dorain and Beinn an Dothaidh
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Blair Atholl
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Sleeper trains in the UK
Green Traveller's guide to the two main overnight rail services in the UK
Travelling overnight on a train is a great way to travel long distances without having to stay in a hotel en route. There are two main overnight services in the UK: 1. The Caledonian Sleeper between London and Scotland and 2. The Night Riviera between London and Cornwall .
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Caledonian Sleeper between London and Scotland
The Caledonian Sleeper stops off a several Scottish railway stations and is actually the collective name for several overnight services from London Euston to Scotland – The Lowlander travels direct to Glasgow and Edinburgh (the train splits in the early hours of the morning, taking passengers to Edinburgh Waverley or Glasgow Central), whereas The Highlander travels further, connecting London with popular destinations like Aberdeen, Inverness, Aviemore, and Fort William.
You can also board the train for both services from Watford Junction, Carlisle, Crewe and Preston. It’s a brilliant way to travel up from England to the mountainous fresh and wild of Scotland, and vice-versa.
The Caledonian Sleeper is operated by Serco on behalf of Transport Scotland. It runs every night, except Saturday night .
One of my favourite trips by Caledonian Sleeper is get off at Corrour station (4 stops before Fort William) and walk a mile to the wonderful off-grid Loch Ossian hostel on the northern edge of Rannoch Moor (pictured below). Another is to continue further up to Fort William and catch the connecting train to Mallaig from where you take a ferry over to the beautiful Knoydart Peninsula – a fantastic place for wild camping and walking - and home to The Old Forge pub , the most remote pub on mainland Britain.
Book a sleeper train to Scotland >>
( see my guide to booking sleeper tickets with TheTrainline )
![overnight train travel uk Loch Ossian Hostel by Loch Ossian, Rannoch Moor, Scotland](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/581fc9_9de8b846329f4e008118bd10622a1efc~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_756,h_504,al_c,q_85,enc_auto/581fc9_9de8b846329f4e008118bd10622a1efc~mv2.jpg)
The Night Riviera between London and Cornwall
The Night Riviera service runs six days a week from London Paddington Railway Station to Penzance Railway Station at the far western tip of Cornwall: it takes just over 8 hours (8 hrs 5mins) on weekday services, and just under 9 hours (8 hrs 59mins) on Sundays.
The Night Riviera calls overnight at Plymouth, Truro, and St Erth en route to its final stop at Penzance. There is a range of options on board, from standard seats to double-berth sleepers. Prices range from £25.50 to £135 depending on the type of accommodation and when you book.
[NB. Due to engineering work, the Night Riviera service isn't running between Monday and Thursdays from 24th January – 17th March 2022. The normal timetable is due to resume from Monday 21st March 2022.]
One of the great things about the Night Riviera service is that you can use it to connect with the ferry service from Penzance to the Isles of Scilly . It’s just a 10-minute walk from Penzance railway station to the check-in at Penzance Harbour for the Scillonian ferry departure to Hugh Town on St Mary’s; just enough time to grab yourself a pasty and set off for one of the best flight-free adventures in the country.
Book a sleeper train to Penzance >>
![overnight train travel uk Bryher Cliff Beach on the Isles of Scilly.](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/581fc9_f7467110e247464693307d8a9a66417b~mv2.jpeg/v1/fill/w_799,h_534,al_c,q_85,enc_auto/581fc9_f7467110e247464693307d8a9a66417b~mv2.jpeg)
Booking sleeper trains through TheTrainline
Booking a sleeper train in the UK require a bit more work than a usual train ticket. Here's a step-by-step guide to booking the ticket through the website of TheTrainline train ticketing agency:
Go to Advanced Search Journey Planner
Enter where you're travelling to and from, for instance, London to Penzance.
Important: make sure you select a departure time in the evening , preferably after 20:00 (this will filter out the day-time services from the results)
Sleeper services have 'sleeper' written underneath the number of changes on the journey. The cheapest (seated) fares are shown first, by default.
To see the full list of accommodation options available, click on 'View all single tickets' below the price matrix.
Select your desired berth and check out. And away you go!
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The 13 best train journeys in the UK
![overnight train travel uk The 13 best train journeys in the UK](https://media.cntraveller.com/photos/611bf761db797d0116fd5390/16:9/w_320%2Cc_limit/glasgow-to-mallaig-gettyimages-1090707276.jpg)
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From the Scottish Highlands to Cornwall ’s sandy beaches — the following 13 trips showcase Britain’s best train journeys, including quick rail rides, overnight sleeper trains and a brand new Edinburgh route that is the most affordable yet.
![overnight train travel uk Just inside the southernmost rim of Snowdonia National Park this route is blessed by nature from the moment the train...](https://media.cntraveller.com/photos/611bf761db797d0116fd538f/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/machynlleth-to-pwllheli-pjpnw3.jpg)
1. Machynlleth to Pwllheli
Just inside the southernmost rim of Snowdonia National Park , this route is blessed by nature from the moment the train departs. Passengers gaze onto scenes of tall grass smattered with waist-high wildflowers and puffy clouds over peaks fringed with forest. Streams wink and flash in the sunlight, and hikers with sticks wave in the distance. Not long after Dovey Junction station, the ride follows the bends of the River Dyfi until it opens wide onto the Cardigan Bay coast, shaped by fingers of creamy sand and dunes melting into the water. Through the window, glimpse rocky beaches thrashed by teal-green water and campers parked on hills, their tents flapping wildly in the wind. A constant mix of sand and shallow waters overseen by cloud-capped mountains, the journey ends with an urban crawl through the market town of Pwllheli.
![overnight train travel uk Short but so very sweet this 10minute ride between the village of St Erth and the seaside town of St Ives gives...](https://media.cntraveller.com/photos/611bf761d5b6f5a4a3deffe2/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/st-ives-bay-line-mr4055.jpg)
2. St Ives Bay Line
Short but so very sweet, this 10-minute ride between the village of St Erth and the seaside town of St Ives gives passengers fabulous views of the Cornish coast. Take a seat on the right-hand side of the train as it clatters along the Hayle estuary where birds pick their way through the pools, then take a deep breath as it climbs the dunes and curls around the crescent of Porth Kidney Sands, where the water is inked with blue and striped with green. From an open window, passengers will smell the saltiness in the air as the train winds above Carbis Bay, where sunbathers are dotted on its golden sands. On arrival at St Ives, head straight to the café at Porthminster beach for the crab, chilli and garlic linguine washed down with a lemon-and-thyme G&T.
![overnight train travel uk Opened in May 1876 this segment is one of Englands last great Victorian routes which British Rail wanted to close in the...](https://media.cntraveller.com/photos/611bf760ae2ff768cb2537e2/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/settle-to-carlisle-gettyimages-184337840.jpg)
3. Settle to Carlisle
Opened in May 1876, this segment is one of England ’s last great Victorian routes, which British Rail wanted to close in the 1980s. But pushback from campaigners, residents and train enthusiasts meant that the 72-mile stretch was saved and continues to seduce both visitors and commuters travelling across the Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines. Boarding at Settle station, with its burgundy trimming and bright flower baskets, passengers are already surrounded by slanting fields of sheep, penned in by the region’s distinctive dry-stone walls. Plunging into tunnels, whizzing across bridges and squeezing through rock cuttings that rise around the carriage, the train negotiates a landscape that often appears to tilt and slide. Crossing rivers, hamlets and miles of peaceful farmland, the journey peaks as the train negotiates the 104ft-high Ribblehead Viaduct where hikers wave from below. For the last half hour look right for views over the Vale of Eden, its hedgerows and farmland spotlit by the sun breaking through low-hanging clouds, before the train terminates in the historic city of Carlisle.
![overnight train travel uk In just under three hours passengers can treat themselves to almost every element one could want on a railway journey...](https://media.cntraveller.com/photos/611bf7618c1b7286f1c123dd/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/inverness-to-kyle-of-lochalsh-rjde24.jpg)
4. Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh
In just under three hours, passengers can treat themselves to almost every element one could want on a railway journey through Scotland. Flanked by hot-pink heather, the train canters out of Inverness along the southern bank of the Beauly Firth and soon draws circles around freshwater lochs, clusters of white houses hidden between trees and mottled moors with plenty of deer. Peering between blocks of thick Scots pine, you'll glimpse silver bodies of water, perhaps a single boat tethered to a pier. It’s worth a stopover at the pretty village of Plockton with its palm trees, pocket-size houses and islets dotted around the bay – along with several silky seals. Pick up the journey once more and continue to the Kyle of Lochalsh as the Isle of Skye looms up ahead.
![overnight train travel uk Dont be fooled into thinking that a highspeed train between two major cities cant offer a gorgeous view or two. This...](https://media.cntraveller.com/photos/611bf761db797d0116fd538e/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/newcastle-to-edinburgh-dw5mcx.jpg)
5. Newcastle to Edinburgh
Don’t be fooled into thinking that a high-speed train between two major cities can’t offer a gorgeous view or two. This route follows England’s north-east coastline into southern Scotland , weaving passengers in and out of the patchworked countryside and misty-blue ocean scenes. Although the first few minutes of the ride include the classic sight of low-hanging wires and warehouses, the train soon shakes off the grime and guts of the city and blares its horn alongside meadows of sheep and picket-fenced farms. Given the journey's speed, flashes of canary-yellow rapeseed fields, the shiny black hides of Aberdeen Angus cows and villages vanish as fast as they rise, so sit on the right and face backwards to draw out the views. As you snake through forest and thunder over bridges , you’ll know when the sea is close as the horizon begins to haze and the edge drops away, revealing a blaze of North Sea blue. Plus, as of late 2021, Lumo launched new service, offering travellers one-way fares starting from just £14.90. Not only will it make the journey more affordable, the train itself — part of Lumo's brand new, 100 per cent electric-powered fleet — is much more carbon-efficient than most other models.
![overnight train travel uk Chugging out of Glasgow Queen Street this train tails the River Clyde for some time before tearing away towards raw...](https://media.cntraveller.com/photos/611bf76124f18e2bd3cbefce/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/glasgow-to-mallaig-gettyimages-645646040.jpg)
6. Glasgow to Mallaig
Chugging out of Glasgow Queen Street, this train tails the River Clyde for some time before tearing away towards raw Scottish wilderness. Surrounded by glens tinged with the mauve of wild heather, it climbs up and around the bonny banks of Loch Lomond, clinging to hillsides trimmed with birch trees. Not long after Tyndrum, move to the front of the train and look back as it curls around the horseshoe bend at the foot of Beinn Doran before carrying on to Fort William. It’s a jolly summer jaunt – but brave the bite of wind and sleet and a winter journey brings beauty in the form of frozen rivers and daggers of ice dangling from trees. Towards the end of the line, the train runs along the 21 arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct at the top of Loch Shiel – a sight commonly known to Harry Potter fans as the route of the Hogwarts Express .
![overnight train travel uk One of only two night services left in the UK the Caledonian Sleeper connects London to Edinburgh and Glasgow on the...](https://media.cntraveller.com/photos/611bf76122be3ca7e5c01318/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/caledonian-sleeper-m0g0gc.jpg)
7. The Caledonian Sleeper
One of only two night services left in the UK, the Caledonian Sleeper connects London to Edinburgh and Glasgow on the Lowlander route, and Aberdeen, Fort William and Inverness on the Highlander route. A facelift in 2019 means the train now resembles a mobile hotel rather than a mode of transport. With double beds, en-suite bathrooms and dimmable lights, the train provides a fun way to bed down for the night and arrive fresh for the day ahead. Board, stash your bags and hunt down the dining car for smoked salmon followed by a plate of haggis, neeps and tatties served with whisky-cream sauce. Knock back a wee dram, then drift off as London falls away in the dark, raising the blinds at dawn to the morning mist hanging over the moors.
![overnight train travel uk For unsuspecting travellers this 18minute journey might feel like any other urban trip. The rails roll past graffitied...](https://media.cntraveller.com/photos/611bf76124f18e2bd3cbefcf/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/exeter-st-davids-to-newton-abbot-c34gx0.jpg)
8. Exeter St Davids to Newton Abbot
For unsuspecting travellers, this 18-minute journey might feel like any other urban trip. The rails roll past graffitied walls, the backs of terraced houses and a strip of factories. But look to the left and watch as the green marshland narrows to a point, the trees drop away and the train seems to hug the majestic, mile-wide river Exe. In warmer months passengers will see a flotilla of sailboats, kayaks and rowers, while in winter the wetlands are teeming with birdlife from curlews, dunlins and teals to bar-tailed godwits and avocets. Around Dawlish Warren the river merges with the English Channel and a perfect sliver of foam rims the edge of the water as walkers stroll along the coastal path, watching gentle waves break and fizz on the sand. Curving down the coast, the train swings inland once more and runs along the river Teign before coming to a stop at Newton Abbot.
![overnight train travel uk The Belmond Royal Scotsman](https://media.cntraveller.com/photos/624ebe024b8d8aa633c50762/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/3royal%2520Scotsman%2C%2520a%2520Belmond-mar21-pr.jpg)
9. The Belmond Royal Scotsman
Over seven nights with steward service, four-course suppers – and much whisky – travelling on the Belmond Royal Scotsman is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to soak up Scotland in all its glory. Boarding in Edinburgh , passengers are shown to private compartments in what feels like a long and narrow Edwardian country house decorated with rough tartan cushions, lacquer-polished wood and tufts of fresh heather on the bedside table. As the train sets off for Falkirk, it’s tempting to daydream by the window, but head to the dining car for a lavish afternoon tea of salmon sandwiches and slabs of sticky Dundee cake. Over the next few days, the train passes through Fort William with views of Ben Nevis and the Glenfinnan viaduct, then snakes north towards the Arisaig coastline with day tours to Inverlochy Castle and the Isle of Bute. Expect an excess of everything from windy walks and castles to massages and the heady morning scent of fresh coffee and frying bacon.
![overnight train travel uk The Night Riviera](https://media.cntraveller.com/photos/624ebe15e0d357e9da9e68ab/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/The%2520Night%2520Riviera%2520-2GAFJFY.jpeg)
10. The Night Riviera
The only other sleeper service in the UK, the night train from London’s Paddington to Penzance is a thrill of a ride from the moment you line up to board in the eerily quiet station. Passengers travelling in a sleeper compartment get priority boarding. Most families pull on pyjamas, clean their teeth and slide under the silky-smooth duvets before the train sets off. But if you do, you’re missing out on the hubbub of the dining car where night owls and regular commuters shout and wave one another over to catch up over palm-sized bottles of wine and a tube or two of Pringles. Light sleepers might find the jolts and bumps a disturbance, and it makes sense to pack earplugs to block out the sounds of fellow passengers fumbling up the corridors looking for cabins, their voices drifting in and out of your dreams. A bleary-eyed wake-up is soon forgotten when you open the blind at dawn to find purple mists draped over moors, apricot light streaking the skies – and a knock at the door bringing coffee and a hot bacon roll.
![overnight train travel uk Dartmoor National Park](https://media.cntraveller.com/photos/624ebe15151ed288fbc1c3fd/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Dartmoor%2520National%2520Park-GettyImages-92954268.jpeg)
11. The Dartmoor Line
At the end of 2022, one of the West Country’s most treasured railway lines reopened after 50 years, connecting Exeter with the market town of Okehampton. The line – established 150 years ago – became a victim of the notorious Beeching cuts that saw thousands of stations and branch lines put out of service. However, after two decades of campaigning, the train is now up and running again, much to the delight of hikers, rail enthusiasts and campers who can journey up to the northern edge of Dartmoor National Park. Before the train has even reached its destination, the wildness of the moors makes itself known, wind whipping the windows and branches tickling the sides.
![overnight train travel uk Snowdon Mountain Railway](https://media.cntraveller.com/photos/624ebe158ca8ae17379c705c/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Snowdon%2520Mountain%2520Railway-GettyImages-969028104.jpeg)
12. Snowdon Mountain Railway
Since the end of the 19th century, a narrow-gauge railway has puffed its way up Mount Snowdon, taking passengers to the top of Wales’s highest peak. Now a favourite of tourists – and hikers looking for a lift halfway – the train departs from jolly Llanberis station at 30-minute intervals, taking around an hour to climb 1,064m to the summit. Within the first few minutes, you’ll be treated to the sight of the Ceunant Mawr waterfall which crashes down over 100 feet into a gorge, along with old farmhouses, crumbling walls and a feral goat or two. As of April 2022, owing to engineering works, the train is running as far as Clogwyn only, from where walkers are welcome to attempt the one-hour walk to the summit. In 2023 the train will resume its usual route to the top of Hafod Eryri where passengers can hop out, stretch their legs and take in the panoramic views that stretch to Ireland. If you’re in luck you might also spot a peregrine falcon or two.
![overnight train travel uk Coleraine to Londonderry](https://media.cntraveller.com/photos/624ebe31a402f11bad6f2184/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Coleraine-G4G1DH.jpeg)
13. Coleraine to Londonderry
A standard commuter line, this route from Coleraine to Londonderry takes just 40 minutes, giving passengers a taster of some of Northern Ireland’s loveliest views. From the moment of departure, fields surround the carriages on one side while the River Bann runs along the other, its body stretching in the sun. On the approach to the seaside village of Castlerock, the train runs along the edge of a caravan site offering passengers a peek into curtained windows with often a wave or two in return, followed by a smattering of churches and houses that close in then swiftly pull back. Plunging into tunnels, the train reappears alongside a blaze of golden sand until the next twist in the track brings the countryside back to heel. Towards the last 10 minutes of the journey, the River Foyle appears and guides the train to its final destination.
Monisha Rajesh is the author of Around the World in 80 Trains (£9.99, Bloomsbury)
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- Overnight trains
![overnight train travel uk The Caledonian Sleeper, one of the U.K.'s overnight trains (Photo by Peter Reed)](https://www.reidsengland.com/site/assets/files/4837/calendonian-ext.-toppic.jpg)
The Caledonian Sleeper and other overnight trains between England and Scotland
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![overnight train travel uk The Caledonian Sleeper, one of the U.K.'s overnight trains (Photo by Peter Reed)](https://www.reidsengland.com/site/assets/files/4837/calendonian-ext.48x48.jpg)
An overnight train is the best way to cover a long distance in Europe without wasting any of your precious daytime hours traveling—and getting a reasonably priced place to sleep in the bargain.
Unlike on the Continent, which is criss-crossed by high-speed overnight trains, there really is only two overnight rail routes in the U.K: between London and Scotland ("The Caledonian Sleeper")—and onward into the Scottish hinterlands—and between London and Devon and Cornwall ("The Night Riviera").
What are the cabins like on a British overnight train ?
Overnight trains in the U.K. come with both single and double sleeping berths. (Those are the only options; none of those old-fashioned six-person couchettes like you get on the Continent sometimes.)
Each cabin has drinking water, hot water, a wash basin, towels, and bed linens. There's a shared bath down the corridor.
A solo person booking a double berth may share it with a stranger of the same gender.
There is a lounge car for meals; first-class customers get a voucher for it (first class passengers can also order breakfast to be delivered to their cabin).
Reservations are required.
The Caledonian Sleeper to Scotland
- London Euston to Aberdeen/Inverness/Fort William (Sunday to Friday, between 20:00 - 21:15) Departs from London Euston calling at Crewe and Preston for boarding only. At Edinburgh (where no alighting is possible), the service separates into three trains for Aberdeen, Inverness and Fort William (known as 'The Deerstalker'), calling at intermediate stations.
- Fort William/Inverness/Aberdeen to London Euston (Sunday to Friday, between 19:00 - 21:40)Three separate trains depart from Fort William, Inverness and Aberdeen calling at intermediate stations. At Edinburgh (where boarding is not possible) they are formed as one train to continue the journey calling at Preston and Crewe (both stops for alighting only) arriving at London Euston the following morning.
- London Euston to Edinburgh/Glasgow (Sunday to Friday, between 22:00 - 23:00) Departs from London Euston calling at Watford Junction (for boarding only) Carlisle and Carstairs (both stops for alighting only). At Carstairs the service separates into two trains for Edinburgh and Glasgow Central (also calling at Motherwell).
- Glasgow/Edinburgh to London Euston (Sunday to Friday, between 21:00 - 23:00)Depart from Glasgow Central (calling at Motherwell) Edinburgh and Carstairs where they are formed as one train to continue the journey calling at Carlisle (for boarding only) arriving at Watford Junction and then London Euston the following morning. Note: Seated Sleeper customers cannot board the northbound service at Watford Junction.
Sleeping berths on the Caledonian Sleeper cost:
Single berth cabin: £43 (first class travel ticket required).
- Twin berth cabin: £38 per berth; Child £19 per berth (Standard Class only, sharing with someone of the same sex)
- Caledonian Solo (exclusive use of a twin berth cabin): £54 (Only available to holders of Standard Anytime and Off Peak returns tickets)
The Night Riviera to Cornwall
The Night Riviera train travels from London's Paddington station through Southwest England, Devon, and Cornwall to Penzance, with early morning stops in Plymouth, Truro, Redruth, and Camborne along the way.
The full ride takes a bit over eight hours, currently leaving London at 23:45 (11:45pm)—though you can board starting at 22:30 (10:30pm)—and arriving in Penzance just before 8am or 9am the next day (it varies by day of week).
- Sunday: Departs London Paddington at 23:50 and arrives at Penzance at 08:59.
- Monday to Friday: Departs London Paddington at 23:45 and arrives at Penzance at 08:00.
- Sunday: Departs Penzance at 21:15 arrives at London Paddington at 05:06.
- Monday to Friday: Departs Penzance at 21:45 and arrives at London Paddington at 05:43.
Tip: Your sleeper ticket entitles you to use the First Class lounge by Track 1 at Paddington Station, so make sure you get there early enough to enjoy the free sandwiches and check out the part of the lounge was once Queen Victoria's private waiting room.
Sleeping berths on the Night Riviera cost:
Solo berth: £60
Twin berth: £70 per cabin (£35 per person)
More on train travel in the U.K.
![overnight train travel uk A train arriving at the Bath Spa railway station (Photo by Matt Buck)](https://www.reidsengland.com/site/assets/files/6833/bath_spa_railway_station_mmb_16_43127.-thumbnail.jpg)
Bath is 90 minutes west of London by train, 2.5 hours by car
![overnight train travel uk Busy Waterloo Station (Photo © Image & Design Ian Halsey MMXIV)](https://www.reidsengland.com/site/assets/files/3510/waterloo.-thumbnail.jpg)
Major train stations in London
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Rail travel in the U.K.
![overnight train travel uk Britrail passes can cover all of Great Britain or just select countries or regions—your pick (Photo maps courtesy of Britrail; illustration by Reid Bramblett)](https://www.reidsengland.com/site/assets/files/4809/britail-maps.-thumbnail.jpg)
Is the Britrail pass—good for unlimited travel on the national rail network—worth it in the U.K.?
![overnight train travel uk Beware of pickpockets (Photo by Cory Doctorow)](https://www.reidsengland.com/site/assets/files/4845/pickpockets.-thumbnail.jpg)
Sleeping on an overnight train is a relatively safe endeavor, but take a few sensible precautions to avoid pickpockets and thieves and sleep more soundly
![overnight train travel uk Crossing the Ribblehead Viaduct (Photo by Andrew)](https://www.reidsengland.com/site/assets/files/5836/ribblehead-viaduct.-thumbnail.jpg)
A cheat-sheet of the most important things to know when riding the British rails
![overnight train travel uk A map of the British rail system (Photo courtesy of NationalRail.co.uk)](https://www.reidsengland.com/site/assets/files/5843/network_rail_national_map.-thumbnail.jpg)
The U.K.'s main train lines
![overnight train travel uk The information booth at Charing Cross Station (Photo by Julie Kertesz)](https://www.reidsengland.com/site/assets/files/5850/station-info.-thumbnail.jpg)
Like the trains themselves, European train stations tend to be clean and user-friendly—with tourist info, hotel booking service, left luggage lockers or offices, and decent snack bars (in case you forget to pick up train picnic supplies in town)
![overnight train travel uk A ticketing machine at Kings Cross Station in London (Photo by Paul Simpson)](https://www.reidsengland.com/site/assets/files/5857/tix.-thumbnail.jpg)
How to get the cheapest fares on British trains
![overnight train travel uk The Eurostar train (Photo © Reid Bramblett)](https://www.reidsengland.com/site/assets/files/6200/eurostar.-thumbnail.jpg)
Connecting London to Paris, Brussels, and the rest of Continental Europe at high speeds though the Chunnel
![overnight train travel uk Railcards can save you 33% for a flat £30 fee (Photo courtesy of National Rail)](https://www.reidsengland.com/site/assets/files/6230/two_together_railcard_web_banner_september_2016_v4.-thumbnail.jpg)
Young adults, families, seniors, and couples can get 1/3 off all trains with a £30 railcard
![overnight train travel uk transport](https://www.reidsengland.com/site/assets/files/1296/interest-bg.-thumbnail.jpg)
Trains to Oxford take 60–70 min (£5–£32) from London's Paddington Station
![overnight train travel uk A train arriving at the Bath Spa railway station (Photo by Matt Buck)](https://www.reidsengland.com/site/assets/files/9470/bath_spa_railway_station_mmb_16_43127.-thumbnail.jpg)
Trains to Bath take 90 min (£17–£95) from London's Paddington Station
- Nationalrail.co.uk - Covers all of the lines once operated by the (since-privitized) old British Rail, as well as info on all British rail stations, including maps and services. This includes most major British railways, but notably does not cover many urban area light rail systems (such as London, Glasgow, Manchester, Blackpool, Sheffield, and Midland Metro), nor does it cover the Eurostar, Heathrow Express , nor a handful of heritage or privately owned railways. Still, it's the closest thing to one-stop shopping for finding train connections across the mainland U.K. (though not Northern Ireland).
- BritRail passes - Book railpasses good for travel all over Great Britain—or just in parts of all of England or Scotland. Partner
- Eurostar.com - The super-fast train through the Channel Tunnel connecting London with Paris (2.5 hrs.), Brussels (2 hrs.) and—though those hubs—the rest of Europe. » more
- Europetrainsguide.com - General train info from a private site devoted to European rail travel.
- Seat61.com - General train info from a private site devoted to rail travel, including detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to get from London to just about any other country in Europe via rail.
- Traintaxi.co.uk - Search stations to find out whether they have taxi ranks/stands, and the phone numbers for pre-booking a cab. (Not being updated after April 2016, but still handy.)
- Sleeper.scot - overnight train
- Heritagerailways.com - An association of historic, heritage, and narrow guage railways—many operating steam trains on historic scenic routes. The site is pretty bare-bones, but if you click on a railway and then look for the link in the box below the map (not teh name on the map itself), you can get to the website for that heritage rail line, train museum, or tourist train
- Train map - A rail network map courtesy of Nationalrail.co.uk.
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Postal treason
It is considered to be an act of treason to place a postage stamp featuring the queen’s head upside down on an envelope. Off with your head!
The 10 best sleeper-train journeys to take in Europe in 2024
![overnight train travel uk Tom Hall](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2021-08/Tom.Hall%20-%20Tom%20Hall.png?w=64&h=64&fit=crop&crop=faces&auto=format&q=75)
Oct 19, 2023 • 8 min read
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After a night on the Caledonian Sleeper, you’ll wake up in the Scottish Highlands © Lucy Knott Photography
A few years ago, competition from low-cost airlines and high-speed railways looked like they would spell the end for sleeper trains, which were increasingly starting to look like relics.
But an increased interest in slow travel and concern about the environmental impact of flying (driven partly by the Swedish concept of flygskam, or “flight shame,” movement) have boosted demand for sleeper trains. In a remarkable reversal of fortunes, operators across Europe – including several new entrants – are bringing routes back, in some cases for the first time in generations, and establishing new services, often across borders.
Overnight trains do more than save on a night’s accommodation. They’re an adventure in themselves, recreating the romance of a bygone era as they transport travelers, families and business people across the continent under the cloak of darkness.
Most services offer a mixture of sleeper compartments with room for two or four passengers; six-person, dormitory-style couchettes; and cars with standard seats. On some trains, however, private compartments equipped with showers and innovative capsule-style berths are becoming available on trains with new or refurbished carriages. This enhances the sense that the next generation of night trains has arrived.
![overnight train travel uk GettyImages-475967884.jpeg](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2023-10/GettyImages-475967884.jpeg?w=1920&auto=format&q=75)
This article was first published Sep 22, 2018 and updated Oct 19, 2023.
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Sleeper Trains Unveiled: Pros and Cons of Overnight Train Travel
by Sharyn McCullum | Last updated Dec 19, 2023 | Live Work Play Travel , Transport / Travelling
![TrainSleeperCarriage Blue train carriage with the word Sleeper on it to show it is an overnight sleeper train.](https://liveworkplaytravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/TrainSleeperCarriage.jpg.webp)
Overnight Train Travel made easier with Sleeper Carriages
The first overnight train travel I undertook was from London to Edinburgh . I thought it would be a good idea to get on the train at 10pm, settle into my bed and wake up the next morning in another city, in another country. And apart from waking a few times due to train movement, I enjoyed the train ride. I was woken early in the morning by the attendant with my breakfast – that was something I wasn’t expecting. But it made the trip more special. I’ve taken a few overnight train trips now, there was Melbourne to Sydney , Paris to Berlin, Auckland to Wellington and a few other night trains over the years. If you are are considering taking an overnight train, here are some pros and cons to consider before booking your overnight train journey.
Table of Contents
Pros of Overnight Train Travel
As with every sort of travel option to help you travel the world there are pros and cons. Let’s start with the advantages of overnight train travel.
Save on Accommodation Costs
The first pro of traveling overnight in a sleeper train is you are making a saving on accommodation. Instead of two costs – the train fare and hotel accommodation for the night – roll both into one cost and you instantly are saving!
Let’s you Keep Traveling
As the overnight train trip is your accommodation for the night, you can get off the train in the morning at a new destination. A new city in a new country perhaps! Hopefully you will have got some rest on the train, and when you get off you will be ready and raring to go for your day of sightseeing or whatever you have planned.
Train Travel is more Environmentally-friendly
Most trains nowadays are electric and more sustainable than car and air travel that rely on fossil fuels for them to drive and fly. In our current world where most of us are concerned about climate change the friendlier to the environment our travel is, where less emissions are released into the atmosphere, the better for the planet. Trains have a lower carbon footprint and that is a really good thing.
Overnight Train Travel Can Be Loads of Fun
I was surprised at first how many people travel on overnight trains. For my first overnight train trip I was expecting the train to be empty – how wrong I was. There were all sorts of people traveling. Families that were visiting family in other cities, solo backpackers traveling around and couples of all ages going places. Depending on the people in the carriage, you can meet loads of other people in similar situations to you. And this can make the trip lots of fun.
Train travel is a Comfortable Way of Traveling
I find traveling by train in general is a more comfortable way of traveling. Seats can be comfortable and I like that you can get up and go for a walk whenever you want. As long as you come prepared for your overnight train journey you can survive long-haul and overnight train travel .
Avoid Airport Hassles
Even though I love catching planes, after all, they can be way quicker than trains, travelling by train helps to avoid airport hassles. What I mean by this is, cancelled flights, baggage restrictions, long security lines to make your flight. Train travel in general provides a hassle-free (usually) and more relaxed experience. There is no luggage limit and you don’t have the long security lines to get onto your train.
It’s Usually Faster than Traveling by Bus
Train travel is not as fast as traveling by plane, but it is faster than traveling by bus. And more comfortable.
See Scenic Routes and Cities at Night
I love sitting in a train and staring fixated out of the window watching the countryside and picturesque towns as the train passes by. When you travel at night, even though it is dark, you can still see the countryside and towns. Instead of seeing a town in the daylight, you will see it with all its lights on – magical!
Visit and See Bonus Places
Travelling by train will see the train stop at different places along its route. You may have never considered stopping here previously, until your train does. As most train stations are in the centre of town, you can have a small layover and discover the town, before getting back on the train. I discovered this when I was Eurailing and I needed to change trains to get to the French Riviera. I stopped somewhere in France for a few hours and I discovered the best patisserie!
You Have Time to Work, Relax or Sleep
When you travel by train, you can literally do whatever you want to do, within reason that is. You could work on your laptop or phone. Relax by watching the world go by from your window seat. Or sleep. What a great way to travel!
Facilities Onboard
Long distance trains have facilities onboard like bathrooms, sleeping areas or cabins and a meal carriage where you can get different foods ranging from snacks to fine dining.
The Cons of Overnight Train Travel
![TrainSleeper4Berth Four bunk beds inside a cabin in an overnight sleeper train.](https://liveworkplaytravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/TrainSleeper4Berth.jpg)
4-birth sleeper cabin
Before you choose to travel overnight by train or not, you will want to consider the cons to overnight train travel. So here are some disadvantages of traveling by train overnight.
Overnight Train Travel Can Cost More
Yes, overnight train travel can cost more than travel through the day. This is mainly because overnight trains are designed to carry people overnight and so have sleeping areas. This could be a whole carriage of bunk beds. And thus, just to lay down, you will need to pay extra for the privilege.
Sleeping Quarters on Trains can be Tight
The overnight train sleeping compartments can be quite small and tight. When I travelled on sleeper trains from London to Edinburgh the compartment was at a stretch 1.5 metres (just under 5 Foot) wide x 2.5 metres (about 8 Foot) long. There were two beds, bunk beds, one above the other. There was a little window and a small door leading to a toilet and hand basin. I was lucky, the train was pretty empty that night and they moved the other person I was to share the cabin with to another one. Sharing this space with someone I did not know might have been very uncomfortable indeed.
Chairs and Beds aren’t always Comfortable
Beds and chairs on overnight trains are designed as much as possible to provide comfort. But everyone is different and one size doesn’t fit all.
TIP : To help with comfort if travelling overnight on a train in a seat, take a neck pillow, blanket, snacks and a bottle of water. A pack of cards is helpful if you want to play games with other passengers.
Limited Facilities onboard the Train
Trains have limited facilities onboard so if you are looking to have a shower or a good meal, think again. Most trains have toilets and hand basins, but not many have showers. Plus as the facilities are shared, they may be cramped and not very clean. Trains may also have a meal carriage serving limited foods and drinks.
TIP: Take your own snacks when travelling overnight by train.
Trains are Not Quiet
Even though you may be in the sleeping area of a train, trains are not always quiet. Apart from the usual train noises, you will encounter people unable to sleep. They unfortunately may have a light on to read or may be on their phone. Card games could be played. People could be walking around or they may just be having conversations. And you can hear everything. That’s when noise cancelling headphones come in!
Trains Move
There is also the movement of the train to deal with – they swaying. On my trip from Melbourne to Sydney, the train seemed to go around a lot of bends. I was laying with my head towards the outside of the carriage. As the train cornered I often felt like I was upside down. This would wake me up.
The Views Can be Limited
Because it is so dark outside overnight, you may not see the scenery as you might during the daylight hours. If seeing the scenery matters, I would suggest traveling by day.
Extended Travel Time
In most cases, trains will almost always take longer than flights. Airplanes obviously travel at higher speeds, covering long distances quickly, while train journeys often involve multiple stops. While overnight train travel has its advantages, those seeking a faster option may find flying more suitable.
There is The Risk of Theft
Unfortunately, there is always some risk that your belongings will be stolen while you are sleeping, not watching or while you go to the toilet or to buy a coffee. Therefore, practicing caution by knowing where your luggage is at all times will help. Also secure your luggage with a padlock so no-one can open it. And also keep your valuables on you or very close by.
Unexpected Delays
Trains can be delayed for a variety of reasons. There may be obstacles on the tracks. Signal failure. Snow. Or the train could simply be running late or worse, cancelled due to lack of a train driver or other things. Delays can throw any best laid plans into chaos. If you are worried about this, make sure to buy travel insurance .
FAQs about Overnight Train Travel?
What is sleeper car?
A sleeper car is a carriage of a train where there is a dedicated car or cars for its passengers to sleep in at night. George Pullman was the American innovator of the sleeper car. In fact, Pullman is the term used for railroad sleeping cars built and operated by the Pullman Company from 1867 to 1968.
Is overnight train travel safe?
Yes overnight train travel is safe. Every person who gets on the train, besides the staff on the train, has a ticket. I cannot vouch for everyone’s personality and motives of train travel, but my expectations are, train travel is safe because you are with other passengers doing what you are doing. It would be unfortunate if anyone got on the train to cause distress to other passengers.
Do sleeper trains have toilets?
Yes. Some rooms may have en-suite facilities but if not, there would be a shared toilet available.
Do sleeper trains have showers?
Some trains offer a range of hotel-like amenities where a shower is available, but most don’t.
Do you share a room on a sleeper train?
Rooms or cabins can be reserved for solo occupancy however, there will be an extra cost. Most people share.
Do you get a blanket on a sleeper train?
Not all the time. Though if you have booked a sleeper you will most likely get a proper freshly-made bed with sheets and blankets. However, if you haven’t booked a sleeper bed, but a chair for your overnight travel, I would suggest you take your own blanket on-board.
What is a couchette vs sleeper?
Sleepers and couchettes are different. Sleepers include a bed and usually a private washbasin, towels and bed linen and can accommodate a varying number of passengers. They can be single, double or 3 or 4 person compartments. A couchettes on the other hand are simple overnight accommodation that can sleeps up to six people in bunks.
Are You Ready To Travel by Train Overnight?
Overnight train travel is a very convenient and scenic way to travel. It is important to consider the pros and cons of overnight train travel before taking the plunge and buying your train ticket. I hope this post has helped you decide. I personally choose train travel over flying when I have the time.
Many countries have sleeper cars trains with sleeping compartments. There are sleeper trains in the UK with one of the most popular routes being sleeper trains to Edinburgh from London. Europe is a popular area for sleeper trains too as it has an extensive train system helping you to travel around Europe by train . Plus there are sleeper trains in India and Amtrak sleeper trains in the USA. And I’m looking forward to experiencing sleeper trains in Vietnam and revisiting my favourite overnight train trip so far that in sleeper trains to Scotland again. Have you traveled by overnight train? I’d love to hear in the comments.
Some epic overnight train journeys in the world
The Reunification Express – Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – 1,726km (1072 miles) takes about 30 hours The Zephyr – Chicago to San Francisco, USA – 2400 miles 3900km – (2434 miles) takes about 52 hours Tazara Railway – Kapiri Mposhi to Dar es Salaam, Zambia and Tanzania – 1860km (1155 miles) – takes about 44 hours Caledonian Sleeper – London to Edinburgh – takes about 6 hours The Orient Express – London to Venice – 2,740 km (1,700 miles) – takes about 2 days Indian Pacific – Sydney to Perth, Australia – 4352kms (2704 miles) – takes just over 3 days
The Ultimate Guide to Eurail and InterRail Pass 5 Reasons to Travel Europe by Train 9 Tips to Survive Long-haul and Overnight Train Trips Tips for Travelling Japan with a Japan Rail Pass
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19 Comments
All valid points I especially like the eco agenda of it
So everyone says electricity is better – let’s hope!
I’d love to try a sleeper train again as I haven’t been on one since I was a kid. Thanks for sharing and bringing back memories.
Great tips, I’ve never done a sleeper train but I’d love to do a long multi-day ride like on the Trans Siberian Express! I didn’t know the difference between a sleeper and couchette, or what the situation is with sharing with other passengers; those are good things to know in advance so I’m not surprised when I get there.
Don’t forget one of the other cons is you might have a solve a murder mystery lol. Every movie I’ve ever seen that involves a sleeper train also involves a murder mystery.
Glad the post has revealed many things to you. Plus, I never thought of solving a murder mystery on a train, but true, many movies involve murder on a train mystery.
I LOVE sleeper trains (in the UK, Russia, India and Japan, as those are the only places I’ve tried it.) The main downside for me is all the time you’re asleep, you miss the views!
I always loved sleeper trains but it really depends on the destination/country. I’ve had the experience to do it in Sri Lanka and India, which I did not love but the ones in Europe and Japan are always cozy, (with the occasional luxury of a dining car) that I enjoy each time! Thanks for sharing this!
Glad you liked it. Sounds like you like to travel by train also!
We had two European vacations canceled this year, but I am convinced to upgrade to a sleeper train now. We could sleep at night and like you said, wake up in a new place to explore!
Yes definitely, sleeper trains have lots of positives and one is sleep the night and arrive in a new city the next morning. I hope you get to Europe.
I’ve never tried a sleeper train before but I’d love to one day! I really appreciate all these helpful tips on the benefits and downsides of trying this experience. It’s great to know for first-time travelers wanting to experience something like this.
I always have an internal debate about overnight trains. If you get a comfy seat or bed, then they can be amazing! However if not, they can be literally hell! I think this is a really good post to read to help with making a decision.
I have only ever done one overnight sleeper train, but that was a luxurious one on the Ghan through Australia. I think what puts me off sleeper trains is whether the bed will be comfortable (I couldn’t sleep in a chair, so that is ruled out).
How lucky to go on The Ghan – that is on my bucket list. You would be surprised how comfy some of the sleeper train beds are – but not all! I hope you get the chance to try some more sleeper train beds!
I enjoy traveling by train but I have never tried a sleeper train before. It is definitely something I would like to try at least once I think. I definitely agree with most of your points as well. I get really travel sick on my transportation but I tend to be fine on the train so sleeper trains are something I should look into!
Train travel sounds like the best option for you if you get really travel sick – nothing worse. It sounds like overnight train travel might suit you!
I have traveled by overnight bus in Vietnam, but not yet by train. I’ve always wanted to go on a sleeper train even though it has some of the problems you mention. It just sounds so fun.
That would have been interesting on an overnight bus in Vietnam. I love train travel and yes, it can be fun.
I think it’s a misconception that sleeper trains are more expensive. You have to compare it with the day travel + accommodation, which you would have to book on the night you’re on the train. So, usually sleeper trains are cheaper than that.
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Due to extensive construction work in Germany and France, some Nightjet connections cannot be offered between 12 August and 25 October 2024 . The connections affected are Vienna - Paris, Berlin - Paris and Berlin - Brussels . From 28 October, all routes will be offered again as scheduled.
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- If you also wish to book a ticket for a connecting journey before the night train and/or after the night train , you can do this in the connecting journey section (step 3).
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From 31 January 2023, travellers will be able to check in and out at Dutch gates (passage barriers) with their (mobile) debit card via the new OVpay system of Dutch Railways NS, if contactless payment is possible. However, this innovation may result in an erroneous debit of € 20 when passing through the gates. Especially if travellers want to use their rail ticket to pass through the gates.
To avoid this, if you have a bank card stored on your mobile phone, it is best to use a printed ticket (not a screenshot of the ticket barcode) to open the gates. You can use an Android mobile phone as soon as NFC is deactivated; unfortunately, this function does not exist for iPhones. In this case, please contact the Dutch Railways NS staff at the gates.
If you have been debited € 20 by OVpay, you can get this amount refunded at https://reisoverzicht.ovpay.nl/ . These debits can be identified by the code NLOVxxxxxx on your billing statement.
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3 (More) Best Scenic UK Train Journeys Every Traveler Should Take
O ne of the most relaxing and stress-free ways to travel is by rail. Consider that the journey on a train can be as special as the destination, especially when traveling through the United Kingdom. Skip the stress of airports, TSA, and delays. Undoubtedly, sitting comfortably in a cushy chair is a simpler way to travel, forcing you to slow down.
Imagine sipping your favorite hot tea gazing at the UK’s diverse and extraordinary topography. See the low-lying flat countryside that butts up to rolling hills and rugged, harsh, remote mountains. Travel from Britain to Scotland and witness the beautiful windswept seagrass, pastures, hills, castles, and quaint towns that glide by just outside your window.
Travel by train across the rural countryside of Ireland from busy, modern, and trendy Dublin to the quaint Gaelic historic town of Galway. Escape the congestion of London for a simpler, slower pace of life in Edinburgh, Scotland. Explore this noble land while giving a nod to a truly romantic homage by rail travel.
Our favorite scenic train routes offer beautiful unspoiled views along the way. Hop aboard these “no-stress-express” trains and see the UK all from the comfort of your seat.
1. London, Britain
The British Pullman train is by far the most luxurious and iconic train ride in Britain. Catch the Pullman and enjoy day trips from Victoria Station in London. This luxury rail line operates year-round in a variety of destinations. The Pullman is a restored 1920s-era train that has carried royalty and has been on the silver screen. Expect luxury, glamor, and adventure. Each rail car has an iconic history with a name to match. Feel like royalty as you start and end your day in style.
Schedule a themed train ride — such as a murder mystery, special afternoon tea, or a festive Christmas-themed journey — while enjoying a fabulous meal. Enjoy a round-trip scenic ride through the Kentish countryside. Take the historic route to Chatsworth House and Highclere Castle of Downton Abbey fame, or select a day trip to the seaside town of Hastings. Enjoy a wonderful experience, all with a glass of champagne and a superb meal served by your steward while you depart from the congestion of downtown London and pass by rolling hills, towns, and villages. It’s a true smorgasbord of views!
2. Edinburgh, Scotland
Forget about flying from London to Scotland. Hop aboard a train and enjoy the picturesque views on the 4- to 5-hour rail ride to the most prestigious city in Scotland — Edinburgh. For train enthusiasts, there is nothing quite like a train ride between London and Edinburgh. Two trains operate daily and each offers a slightly different experience.
The Avanti West Coast train is a bit slower at 5.5 hours vs. the faster LNER train , which shaves off an hour and can reach speeds of up to 125 miles per hour. Both trains leave Kings Cross station in London and arrive at Waverly , the central station in Edinburgh. The views from the large train windows are memorable. While your train races through the countryside, you pass the boroughs of London, witnessing historic castles, cathedrals, grassy hills, and loads of golf courses.
You won’t forget the views as you enter Scotland with its green rolling hills speckled with grazing sheep! Scotland’s own author, Robert Louis Stevenson, once said, “The most beautiful adventures are not those we go to seek.”
3. Dublin, Galway Ireland
Travelers who are interested in discovering the scenic landscape of Ireland might find that a shorter trip on a train crossing the country from coast to coast is the best option. The journey on the Galway-Dublin train , about 3 hours, is one of the most picturesque routes in the country.
The countryside of Ireland is so different as you cross from coast to coast. Ireland is called the “Emerald Isle” for a reason. The landscape is vast, green, crisp, and clean. To say the hills are rolling and bucolic doesn’t give justice to the true beauty of this place. Enjoy this cross-county train and see the topography of rolling hills with many gradations of green. Farms are separated by volcanic rock walls and sheep wander while they freely graze. Galway is a festive and lively waterfront village with the Cliffs of Moher nearby. Hop on this train, grab a Guiness, and see the best of Ireland — the countryside, cities, towns, and oceans. Dublin offers a vibrant city, culture, history, and great pubs. Whichever city you start or finish in, this train ride is worth it!
One of the most relaxing forms of travel is viewing the world through a carriage window. The UK has hundreds of beautiful railway lines offering a chance to see unspoiled, rugged, and scenic beauty. Whether you travel by train to skip the hustle and bustle of busy airports, or ease your travel stress by not driving in a foreign country, train travel in these beautiful UK cities can be the highlight of your journey. All aboard!
This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits
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![overnight train travel uk Olympic climbers Erin McNeice and Shauna Coxsey share tips on strength](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/8iOFi8l6/poster.jpg?width=320)
Olympic climbers Erin McNeice and Shauna Coxsey share tips on strength
![overnight train travel uk Team GB’s table tennis Olympians on how to get quicker](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/gPVeYONn/poster.jpg?width=320)
Team GB’s table tennis Olympians on how to get quicker
![overnight train travel uk How did social media fuel the Southport rioters?](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/27LNPYJn/poster.jpg?width=320)
How did social media fuel the Southport rioters?
![overnight train travel uk How to train like an Olympian: TeamGB’s Adam Burgess on decisions](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/6q9XhBih/poster.jpg?width=320)
How to train like an Olympian: TeamGB’s Adam Burgess on decisions
![overnight train travel uk Exploring the wilds of the Atlantic Islands](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/otg38L1m/poster.jpg?width=320)
Exploring the wilds of the Atlantic Islands
![overnight train travel uk Lemoncello perform ‘Old Friend’ in Music Box session](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/zEtbDSqc/poster.jpg?width=320)
Lemoncello perform ‘Old Friend’ in Music Box session
![overnight train travel uk How to spend your summer in Scotland](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/RB9ANwum/poster.jpg?width=320)
How to spend your summer in Scotland
![overnight train travel uk Simon Calder looks back on 30 years of travel with The Independent](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/0fIl8vpP/poster.jpg?width=320)
Simon Calder looks back on 30 years of travel with The Independent
![overnight train travel uk Searching for the ‘Whitby Woman’](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/avIR0YJ6/poster.jpg?width=320)
Searching for the ‘Whitby Woman’
![overnight train travel uk On the campaign trail with Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/V31XeY13/poster.jpg?width=320)
On the campaign trail with Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg
![overnight train travel uk Life at 50C: Delhi’s streets struggling to cope with heatwave](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/rBmQmkNo/poster.jpg?width=320)
Life at 50C: Delhi’s streets struggling to cope with heatwave
![overnight train travel uk Indian farmers use election to make voices heard against Narendra Modi](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/nP1JdHGy/poster.jpg?width=320)
Indian farmers use election to make voices heard against Narendra Modi
![overnight train travel uk Baltimore will rebuild, but at what cost? | On The Ground](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/yXHmGWDN/poster.jpg?width=320)
Baltimore will rebuild, but at what cost? | On The Ground
![overnight train travel uk New Yorkers turn to self-defence classes as punching attacks continue](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/2e7zohRV/poster.jpg?width=320)
New Yorkers turn to self-defence classes as punching attacks continue
![overnight train travel uk This 26-year-old could be Biden’s secret weapon | On The Ground](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/q0izTd5u/poster.jpg?width=320)
This 26-year-old could be Biden’s secret weapon | On The Ground
![overnight train travel uk The NHS nurse fighting to be heard | On The Ground](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/TV94Wy8o/poster.jpg?width=320)
The NHS nurse fighting to be heard | On The Ground
![overnight train travel uk What would a President Trump 2.0 look like?](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/PIBU5tBn/poster.jpg?width=320)
What would a President Trump 2.0 look like?
![overnight train travel uk When will the Cost of Living Crisis end?](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/XLSMfas0/poster.jpg?width=320)
When will the Cost of Living Crisis end?
![overnight train travel uk How airlines greenwash the skies](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/PNPolcJJ/poster.jpg?width=320)
How airlines greenwash the skies
![overnight train travel uk Is it time to panic over AI? | Behind The Headlines](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/F43tn4ss/poster.jpg?width=320)
Is it time to panic over AI? | Behind The Headlines
![overnight train travel uk My personal struggle amid the global fight for abortion rights](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/dQ0v4j1a/poster.jpg?width=320)
My personal struggle amid the global fight for abortion rights
![overnight train travel uk Non-doms, ghost-doms and tax loopholes of the elite](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/IzUhEdQU/poster.jpg?width=320)
Non-doms, ghost-doms and tax loopholes of the elite
![overnight train travel uk The fight for LGBT+ rights in Poland](https://static.independent.co.uk/v2/media/vSu2khLq/poster.jpg?width=320)
The fight for LGBT+ rights in Poland
![overnight train travel uk The war in Ukraine | Behind The Headlines](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/C7ga4XEP/poster.jpg?width=320)
The war in Ukraine | Behind The Headlines
![overnight train travel uk What is tactical voting - and why could it be a powerful tool?](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/VUODe7QK/poster.jpg?width=320)
What is tactical voting - and why could it be a powerful tool?
![overnight train travel uk Are ultra-processed foods bad for you?](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/wpMxRqAX/poster.jpg?width=320)
Are ultra-processed foods bad for you?
![overnight train travel uk Why are UK councils going bankrupt?](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/EJSmJcBB/poster.jpg?width=320)
Why are UK councils going bankrupt?
![overnight train travel uk What causes the winter flu and how does it differ from other types?](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/OV0NKSb1/poster.jpg?width=320)
What causes the winter flu and how does it differ from other types?
![overnight train travel uk How does the Iowa Caucus pick the next US president? | Decomplicated](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/muVd2kQy/poster.jpg?width=320)
How does the Iowa Caucus pick the next US president? | Decomplicated
![overnight train travel uk Everything you need to know about the bedbug invasion | Decomplicated](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/Y92ND3uH/poster.jpg?width=320)
Everything you need to know about the bedbug invasion | Decomplicated
![overnight train travel uk What is Raac and why is it causing an issue in schools?](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/0qXCobdq/poster.jpg?width=320)
What is Raac and why is it causing an issue in schools?
![overnight train travel uk How does El Niño affect our weather? | Decomplicated](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/jBpDhGHx/poster.jpg?width=320)
How does El Niño affect our weather? | Decomplicated
![overnight train travel uk Viggo Mortensen on the role that got away](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/DhznhLuW/poster.jpg?width=320)
Viggo Mortensen on the role that got away
![overnight train travel uk Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt pick their go-to karaoke songs](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/qzBxW41A/poster.jpg?width=320)
Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt pick their go-to karaoke songs
![overnight train travel uk Actor Kevin Durand on how he found his inner ape](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/dkF1zYVh/poster.jpg?width=320)
Actor Kevin Durand on how he found his inner ape
![overnight train travel uk Go to Bat with Melanie Lynskey: My film that deserves more love](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/3NMEct9Q/poster.jpg?width=320)
Go to Bat with Melanie Lynskey: My film that deserves more love
![overnight train travel uk Oscars 2024: Who will win Best Actor and Actress?](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/iHGLQN84/poster.jpg?width=320)
Oscars 2024: Who will win Best Actor and Actress?
![overnight train travel uk Oscars 2024: Who will win Best Picture and Best Director?](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/jRScocKK/poster.jpg?width=320)
Oscars 2024: Who will win Best Picture and Best Director?
![overnight train travel uk Big Brother’s Jordan and Henry on life after the house](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/X2vW2tzt/poster.jpg?width=320)
Big Brother’s Jordan and Henry on life after the house
![overnight train travel uk Baftas 2024: Best British film nominees you need to watch](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/6kJPTgIL/poster.jpg?width=320)
Baftas 2024: Best British film nominees you need to watch
![overnight train travel uk Lemoncello perform ‘Sunflower’ in Music Box session](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/HTkyjOob/poster.jpg?width=320)
Lemoncello perform ‘Sunflower’ in Music Box session
![overnight train travel uk Boston trio Tiny Habits perform ‘Wishes’ for Music Box session](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/Tjbjl98D/poster.jpg?width=320)
Boston trio Tiny Habits perform ‘Wishes’ for Music Box session
![overnight train travel uk Boston trio Tiny Habits perform ‘Mudroom’ in Music Box session](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/Nc5DPgOw/poster.jpg?width=320)
Boston trio Tiny Habits perform ‘Mudroom’ in Music Box session
![overnight train travel uk The Mysterines perform ‘The Last Dance’ for Music Box](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/Cf7giO1y/poster.jpg?width=320)
The Mysterines perform ‘The Last Dance’ for Music Box
![overnight train travel uk Rock band The Mysterines perform single ‘Stray’ for Music Box](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/2J5FDkqs/poster.jpg?width=320)
Rock band The Mysterines perform single ‘Stray’ for Music Box
![overnight train travel uk Gareth Dunlop performs ‘Church’ in acoustic live set](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/i6OQM80b/poster.jpg?width=320)
Gareth Dunlop performs ‘Church’ in acoustic live set
![overnight train travel uk Irish pop artist Gareth Dunlop performs Go Down Swinging for Music Box](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/3mkFOvfL/poster.jpg?width=320)
Irish pop artist Gareth Dunlop performs Go Down Swinging for Music Box
![overnight train travel uk The splendour along Lake Geneva as Montreux Jazz Festival plays](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/4d6TvWtm/poster.jpg?width=320)
The splendour along Lake Geneva as Montreux Jazz Festival plays
![overnight train travel uk Go to where the wild things are with a safari holiday](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/PUQlKgGL/poster.jpg?width=320)
Go to where the wild things are with a safari holiday
![overnight train travel uk How to master the art of the last minute holiday](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/xRusNsxr/poster.jpg?width=320)
How to master the art of the last minute holiday
![overnight train travel uk How to island hop around the Caribbean like a pro](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/bhk6Il8k/poster.jpg?width=320)
How to island hop around the Caribbean like a pro
![overnight train travel uk Here’s why Greece is still a firm family summer holiday favourite](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/hYbCws2z/poster.jpg?width=320)
Here’s why Greece is still a firm family summer holiday favourite
![overnight train travel uk Find your perfect seasonal city break](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/TqSlL3k6/poster.jpg?width=320)
Find your perfect seasonal city break
![overnight train travel uk Mother of girl who died after Costa appeals for allergen training](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/wnLLHvho/poster.jpg?width=320)
Mother of girl who died after Costa appeals for allergen training
![overnight train travel uk Beijing launches drone food delivery service on Great Wall Of China](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/XxZkZivm/poster.jpg?width=320)
Beijing launches drone food delivery service on Great Wall Of China
![overnight train travel uk Paralympian on way to training saves driver from truck fire](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/E0m3P6PK/poster.jpg?width=320)
Paralympian on way to training saves driver from truck fire
![overnight train travel uk Fight breaks out in Turkish parliament over jailed opposition MP](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/MUTOAVkq/poster.jpg?width=320)
Fight breaks out in Turkish parliament over jailed opposition MP
![overnight train travel uk Harris outlines plans for first federal ban on food ‘price gouging’](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/zJgii2PR/poster.jpg?width=320)
Harris outlines plans for first federal ban on food ‘price gouging’
![overnight train travel uk Blackpool man sentenced for violent disorder in riots](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/zKeLGj7I/poster.jpg?width=320)
Blackpool man sentenced for violent disorder in riots
![overnight train travel uk Animal sanctuary rescues lion with ‘psychological issues’ from Ukraine](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/JzmOGZkc/poster.jpg?width=320)
Animal sanctuary rescues lion with ‘psychological issues’ from Ukraine
![overnight train travel uk North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visits flood-victim children](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/0VAuy6Y8/poster.jpg?width=320)
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visits flood-victim children
![overnight train travel uk Olympic athletes let fans hold gold medals at homecoming](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/WIc2JwAY/poster.jpg?width=320)
Olympic athletes let fans hold gold medals at homecoming
![overnight train travel uk Arne Slot confident in Liverpool squad despite lack of transfers](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/b0lKGCoL/poster.jpg?width=320)
Arne Slot confident in Liverpool squad despite lack of transfers
![overnight train travel uk Olympian watched opening ceremony at home before winning two medals](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/nL7Gd20V/poster.jpg?width=320)
Olympian watched opening ceremony at home before winning two medals
![overnight train travel uk Meet the former Barcelona star promoting his content on OnlyFans](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/htei4eaN/poster.jpg?width=320)
Meet the former Barcelona star promoting his content on OnlyFans
![overnight train travel uk West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui responds to Danny Dyer’s message](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/SeheiAhS/poster.jpg?width=320)
West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui responds to Danny Dyer’s message
![overnight train travel uk Earps becomes first female footballer to get Madame Tussauds waxwork](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/d5EZdohb/poster.jpg?width=320)
Earps becomes first female footballer to get Madame Tussauds waxwork
![overnight train travel uk Boxer Khelif describes ‘joy’ on return home after winning Olympic gold](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/TJ34fghP/poster.jpg?width=320)
Boxer Khelif describes ‘joy’ on return home after winning Olympic gold
![overnight train travel uk Fighter jets escort Taiwan’s Olympic athletes home after Paris Games](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/7yFRnUSo/poster.jpg?width=320)
Fighter jets escort Taiwan’s Olympic athletes home after Paris Games
![overnight train travel uk Surfers ride powerful 13ft waves amid weather warning](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/r16nNdZ3/poster.jpg?width=320)
Surfers ride powerful 13ft waves amid weather warning
![overnight train travel uk Floodwaters rage across Yelville as residents evacuated from homes](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/YRQcpiMU/poster.jpg?width=320)
Floodwaters rage across Yelville as residents evacuated from homes
![overnight train travel uk Greece shuts down Acropolis as temperatures hit almost 40 degrees](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/rb6In3TW/poster.jpg?width=320)
Greece shuts down Acropolis as temperatures hit almost 40 degrees
![overnight train travel uk Eerie tornado sirens ring through downtown Chicago](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/HGLbi37A/poster.jpg?width=320)
Eerie tornado sirens ring through downtown Chicago
![overnight train travel uk Googlebox stars stuck in Jamaica as Hurricane Beryl makes landfall](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/WeUy2kW0/poster.jpg?width=320)
Googlebox stars stuck in Jamaica as Hurricane Beryl makes landfall
![overnight train travel uk Damaged boats sink in port after Hurricane Beryl lashes Barbados](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/LcvuZUeR/poster.jpg?width=320)
Damaged boats sink in port after Hurricane Beryl lashes Barbados
![overnight train travel uk Northern California wildfire forces thousands to evacuate](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/LXZUWBuo/poster.jpg?width=320)
Northern California wildfire forces thousands to evacuate
![overnight train travel uk Cars swept away in New Mexico flash floods after wildfires](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/NeKo9pP5/poster.jpg?width=320)
Cars swept away in New Mexico flash floods after wildfires
![overnight train travel uk Ekin-Su: Going from one reality show to another has left me damaged](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/ad2f017L/poster.jpg?width=320)
Ekin-Su: Going from one reality show to another has left me damaged
![overnight train travel uk Taylor Swift shares the stage with Ed Sheeran at Eras tour in London](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/lnA0cGUw/poster.jpg?width=320)
Taylor Swift shares the stage with Ed Sheeran at Eras tour in London
![overnight train travel uk Kim Kardashian reveals her children try to set her up on dates](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/AWgXTjYT/poster.jpg?width=320)
Kim Kardashian reveals her children try to set her up on dates
![overnight train travel uk Celebrity Race Across The World: Jeff storms off from Freddie](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/vuElKcqR/poster.jpg?width=320)
Celebrity Race Across The World: Jeff storms off from Freddie
![overnight train travel uk Miranda Hart reveals she has been battling secret illness](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/QRG7lxSd/poster.jpg?width=320)
Miranda Hart reveals she has been battling secret illness
![overnight train travel uk Gen Z brings back retro item — but doesn’t know how to use it](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/hRR907We/poster.jpg?width=320)
Gen Z brings back retro item — but doesn’t know how to use it
![overnight train travel uk Molly Mae Hague believed Tommy Fury relationship would last forever](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/SJEAHEWZ/poster.jpg?width=320)
Molly Mae Hague believed Tommy Fury relationship would last forever
![overnight train travel uk First time Molly-Mae and Tommy meet resurfaces after split](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/623LMea0/poster.jpg?width=320)
First time Molly-Mae and Tommy meet resurfaces after split
![overnight train travel uk overnight train travel uk](https://static.independent.co.uk/2024/02/23/15/SC%20lockup%20for%20video%20articles%2072dpi.png?quality=75&auto=webp&format=png&height=32)
Saudi Cup: ‘A true display of horsemanship’, says Prince Bandar
![overnight train travel uk Princess Nourah praises young fashion designers on show at Saudi Cup](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/7Q7zNWaQ/poster.jpg?width=320)
Princess Nourah praises young fashion designers on show at Saudi Cup
![overnight train travel uk Andrew Strauss says Saudi is an eye opener](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/jMW4SQkY/poster.jpg?width=320)
Andrew Strauss says Saudi is an eye opener
![overnight train travel uk Saudi Arabia is ‘pushing limits’ of fashion creativity](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/SWMs1M14/poster.jpg?width=320)
Saudi Arabia is ‘pushing limits’ of fashion creativity
![overnight train travel uk Saudi Cup could become ‘the best race in the world’](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/PUjK2awE/poster.jpg?width=320)
Saudi Cup could become ‘the best race in the world’
![overnight train travel uk Horseracing chiefs praise Saudi Cup](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/iQqWxN4U/poster.jpg?width=320)
Horseracing chiefs praise Saudi Cup
![overnight train travel uk Saudi will become a ‘worldwide, year-long’ horseracing destination](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/XlFVRn8I/poster.jpg?width=320)
Saudi will become a ‘worldwide, year-long’ horseracing destination
![overnight train travel uk Arabian horses ‘big part’ of global racing culture, says Damien Oliver](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/OIy8ebNd/poster.jpg?width=320)
Arabian horses ‘big part’ of global racing culture, says Damien Oliver
Galaxy the ripple effect.
![overnight train travel uk overnight train travel uk](https://static.independent.co.uk/2023/07/20/09/Galaxy%20logo%20solid%20background.png?quality=75&auto=webp&format=png&height=32)
Ebony Rainford-Brent MBE on the imposter syndrome epidemic
![overnight train travel uk Finance coach Ellie Austin-Williams on the psychology of money](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/e6PLPaIG/poster.jpg?width=320)
Finance coach Ellie Austin-Williams on the psychology of money
![overnight train travel uk Ebony Rainford-Brent MBE on how to tackle imposter syndrome](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/VUAXAKYd/poster.jpg?width=320)
Ebony Rainford-Brent MBE on how to tackle imposter syndrome
![overnight train travel uk Simple ways to boost your money situation with Ellie Austin-Williams](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/bcsJPKKF/poster.jpg?width=320)
Simple ways to boost your money situation with Ellie Austin-Williams
E.on next power switch.
![overnight train travel uk overnight train travel uk](https://static.independent.co.uk/2023/05/30/14/Mid-length%20Logo%20%287%29.png?quality=75&auto=webp&format=png&height=32)
Episode One - Cooking
![overnight train travel uk Episode Two - Entertainment](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/VNwgufs9/poster.jpg?width=320)
Episode Two - Entertainment
![overnight train travel uk Episode Three - Body Care](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/XtTaRXK3/poster.jpg?width=320)
Episode Three - Body Care
![overnight train travel uk Episode Four - Lighting](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/eFWnfw93/poster.jpg?width=320)
Episode Four - Lighting
Big in america.
![overnight train travel uk overnight train travel uk](https://static.independent.co.uk/2024/02/12/15/DBTLogo.png?quality=75&auto=webp&format=png&height=32)
Can Willsow’s children’s books pique the interest of the US market?
![overnight train travel uk Will the founders of Spice Kitchen be able to find US retailers?](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/aAo9dZCM/poster.jpg?width=320)
Will the founders of Spice Kitchen be able to find US retailers?
![overnight train travel uk Co-founders of See.Sense bring their cycle safe tech to New York City](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/8zuHzk0v/poster.jpg?width=320)
Co-founders of See.Sense bring their cycle safe tech to New York City
![overnight train travel uk Collctiv fintech founder Amy Whitell tries to crack the US tech market](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/XW1b2CoG/poster.jpg?width=320)
Collctiv fintech founder Amy Whitell tries to crack the US tech market
![overnight train travel uk The maritime tech guru taking high-speed ferries across the Atlantic](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/kQjXUZGS/poster.jpg?width=320)
The maritime tech guru taking high-speed ferries across the Atlantic
Saudi green initiative.
![overnight train travel uk overnight train travel uk](https://static.independent.co.uk/2021/06/25/10/SGI-logo%201.png?quality=75&auto=webp&format=png&height=32)
Saudi government doesn’t ‘pay lip service’ on climate action
![overnight train travel uk SGI ‘seems like a nest of harmony’, journalist says](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/Gus2R7CR/poster.jpg?width=320)
SGI ‘seems like a nest of harmony’, journalist says
![overnight train travel uk SGI ambitions are ‘extremely high’, says Saudi climate envoy](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/nRE8AYDt/poster.jpg?width=320)
SGI ambitions are ‘extremely high’, says Saudi climate envoy
![overnight train travel uk Saudi Green Initiative aims to ‘not just preserve, but create’](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/281DUk6w/poster.jpg?width=320)
Saudi Green Initiative aims to ‘not just preserve, but create’
![overnight train travel uk Expert explains how ‘blended finance’ can help achieve net zero](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/MZyHJ4zK/poster.jpg?width=320)
Expert explains how ‘blended finance’ can help achieve net zero
![overnight train travel uk SGI can be a ‘catalyst’ for Saudi Arabia, head of SABB says](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/sHCVYMUF/poster.jpg?width=320)
SGI can be a ‘catalyst’ for Saudi Arabia, head of SABB says
![overnight train travel uk Kaust professor ‘inspired’ by Saudi efforts to save coral reefs](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/xk4JHMVg/poster.jpg?width=320)
Kaust professor ‘inspired’ by Saudi efforts to save coral reefs
![overnight train travel uk Watch in full: Day two of the Saudi Green Initiative Forum](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/qBGM4Bk8/poster.jpg?width=320)
Watch in full: Day two of the Saudi Green Initiative Forum
![overnight train travel uk Royal Commission of AlUla](https://static.independent.co.uk/2023/01/13/22/RCU_logo.png?quality=75&auto=webp&format=png&height=32)
Gérard Mestrallet on the challenges of bringing infrastructure to the region of AlUla
![overnight train travel uk Sir George Iacobescu, chairman of the Canary Wharf Group on the investment into the historic region of AlUla](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/LSvQ5SQ1/poster.jpg?width=320)
Sir George Iacobescu, chairman of the Canary Wharf Group on the investment into the historic region of AlUla
![overnight train travel uk Oliver Ripley of sustainable hotel group Habitas talks about how AlUla challenged his preconceptions of Saudi Arabia](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/ADCX8FkA/poster.jpg?width=320)
Oliver Ripley of sustainable hotel group Habitas talks about how AlUla challenged his preconceptions of Saudi Arabia
![overnight train travel uk Thomas Kaplan of wild cat conservation charity Panthera on the mission to save the Arabian Leopard](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/mJh5g24R/poster.jpg?width=320)
Thomas Kaplan of wild cat conservation charity Panthera on the mission to save the Arabian Leopard
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Stargazing Experience
The most spectacular winter train journeys in Europe
Celebrate the most magical season on these epic winter railway trips, from Switzerland to Norway
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If you ask us, it's never too early to get excited about winter . The crisp woodland walks, festivities with family and friends, getting snuggly by a warm fire after a long day - we can't wait to wrap up warm and experience the cosiest time of year.
One of the best ways to travel in winter is by heading to Europe ’s stunning mountains and fjords, when they're at their most icily beautiful, and you can glide past on a long, winding winter train journey as you sit back, relax and soak up the wonderful scenery.
For a classic Christmas experience, head to Switzerland in December, when its pretty mountain villages are coated in bright white snow, and winter trains like the Bernina Railway or Glacier Express will take you high up into the iconic Alps.
Here are six of the most spectacular winter train journeys to take in 2024 and 2025, which we’ve included in our exclusive selection of holidays for Country Living readers.
Bernina Railway
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The Swiss Alps have always been one of Europe’s top winter destinations, with sweeping views of sparkling white snow, cute wooden chalets serving homemade stews and soups, and beautiful lakes nestled in the foothills.
A lovely way to take in the alps is on-board the Bernina Railway. This world-famous alpine train takes passengers from Tirana in Italy to chic St Moritz in Switzerland, on one of Europe’s most scenic routes. Plus, the spacious, panoramic carriages mean you’ll be able to admire the views from every angle – without a long hike!
Stay by Lake Como and ride the Bernina Railway with Country Living in December 2024. You'll ride through the mountains to elegant St Moritz, enjoying views of Switzerland's pristine lakes and stunning mountain tops through the train's windows.
Glacier Express
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Another fabulous way to soak up the romance of the Alps is on the slow-moving Glacier Express . Gliding along at a relaxed pace, you’ll have all the time in the world to drink in fantastical views on either side, as you inch your way through snow-coated woodland and up into the mighty Oberalp Pass, standing 2,033 metres above sea level.
Known as the world's slowest express train, it's an eight-hour experience that takes you over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, surrounded by picture-postcard pine forests and majestic white peaks. Plus, you’ll see the jaw-dropping arches of the Landwasser Viaduct and the jagged Rhine Gorge.
Explore the Swiss Alps and ride the Glacier Express with Country Living in January 2025. At this time of year the Alps will be carpeted in thick snow. You'll stay in Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland , which looks like something out of a fairytale in the winter months.
FIND OUT MORE
Flam Railway
If you’ve got a stomach for heights and want to experience some of Scandinavia’s most inspiring views from the comfort of a train carriage, then hop onboard Flamsbana 'Corkscrew Railway' - one of the world’s steepest standard gauge railways.
Clinging to sheer mountains, the Flam Railway descends through stunning scenery as it takes you on a breathtaking hour-long journey from the mountain resort of Myrdal down to Flam. You’ll chug past tumbling waterfalls as it twists and turns the 865 metre descent through the forest covered valley – usually coated with thick snow in winter – to the shores of Aurlandsfjord.
Bergen Line
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Linking Oslo and Bergen, this is Northern Europe’s highest railway, climbing to 1,237m above sea level as it crosses the idyllic Hardangervidda mountain plateau. The pretty Alpine scenery up here is truly special, and very popular for hiking and fishing during summer, but during the freezing winter months the best way to experience its meadows, streams and lakes is definitely on a scenic railway journey.
You’ll also pass through Finse, which is known as ‘mini-Antarctica’, because its extreme conditions led polar explorers Nansen, Amundsen and Shackleton to use it as a training ground. And keep an eye out for wildlife too, you might spot arctic foxes, snow owls and wild reindeer as your train winds its way across the dramatic rocky route.
Arctic Circle Train
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Experience the timeless winter landscape of Lapland on board the Arctic Circle train. Travelling from the Norwegian coast, the route takes you over the mountains into Sweden, through the beautiful birch forests that drape the fells of Abisko National Park.
Lasting around three hours and stopping at 12 points along the way, the Arctic Cicle train is popular with adrenaline-junkies, including skiers keen to experience the thrills of Björkliden ski resort and adventurers exploring the dramatic Riksgränsen mountain range on snowmobiles and helicopters. For a more leisurely experience, simply ride the length of the railway from Narvik to Kiruna and then travel by road to Jukkasjärvi, home to Sweden’s unique Icehotel.
Nordland Line
Rail journeys don’t come much more spectacular than Norway’s Nordland Line. At 729 kilometres, it’s the country’s longest, and the epic 10-hour ride takes you across 293 bridges and through 154 tunnels as you wind your way north to the Arctic Circle, passing mountains, fjords and frozen wildernesses.
From the endless forests of Trondelag to the icy Saltfjellet peaks, you’ll witness a winter wonderland where the sun only rises for a few hours - and the Northern Light s dancing across the night sky. Travelling from Bodo to Trondheim, along rivers filled with fish and via the ancient settlement of Mo i Rana, the Nordland Line shows you Norway and its purest and most ruggedly beautiful.
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Ukraine war latest: Safety 'deteriorating' at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant after drone strike
Zaporizhzhia is the largest nuclear facility in Europe and has been occupied by Russian soldiers since the early stages of its war with Ukraine.
Sunday 18 August 2024 00:45, UK
- Drone strike on Ukrainian nuclear power plant sees safety deteriorate
- Zelenskyy says Ukraine inflicting 'maximum damage' on Russian forces in Kursk
- Kyiv refutes 'insane Russian propaganda' campaign warning of Ukrainian dirty bomb
- Kyiv used Western rockets to destroy Russian bridge, says Moscow
- Putin's forces capture territory in Donetsk - amid Ukrainian strikes on region
- 'We could lose': Russian state TV commentators gloomy over Kursk
- Sean Bell: Humiliated Putin will respond ruthlessly to Ukrainian masterstroke
- Michael Clarke : Pokrovsk in real trouble as Russian troops advance
- Listen to the Daily above and tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has praised the UK's "true leadership" in its support of Ukraine - but warned "the situation has slowed down recently" as it pushes into Russian territory.
In his nightly video address, he stressed it is "crucial that our partners remove barriers that hinder us from weakening Russian positions in the way this war demands".
He promised to "intensify our diplomatic efforts" amid the Kursk incursion, naming the UK, US, and France as key targets.
It comes amid speculation Germany is planning to halve its Ukrainian aid budget next year.
Mr Zelenskyy finished his X post by saying: "Throughout this war, we've seen the UK demonstrate true leadership—in arms, politics, and support for Ukrainian society.
"This has saved thousands of lives, reflecting the strength of the UK."
But he added: "Unfortunately, the situation has slowed down recently.
"We will discuss how to fix this because long-range capabilities are vital for us. The whole world sees how effective Ukrainians are—how our entire nation defends its independence."
In a Sunday Express interview, Defence Secretary John Healey endorsed Ukraine using British weapons inside Russia - as long as it keeps within international law.
The UK "should be proud" British weapons are being used by Ukraine – including inside Russia, the defence secretary has said.
John Healey told the Sunday Express that he is happy for weapons to be used over the Russian border, providing international law is maintained.
He told the newspaper: "Let me be very clear: under Article 51 of the UN Charter, Ukraine has a clear right of self-defence against Russia's illegal attacks.
"Providing international law is followed, that does not rule out operations inside Russia."
He added: "We should be proud of Britain's support for Ukraine's struggle.
"We should be proud that British-donated equipment, in the hands of brave Ukrainians on the front line, is helping them to defend their country and push back Putin."
Ukrainian troops crossed into the Russian border region of Kursk on 6 August in a bid to divert the Kremlin's military focus away from the frontline in Ukraine.
On Thursday, Ukrainian forces claimed to have seized the town of Sudzha, six miles from the border.
The UK is one of Ukraine's leading military donors, providing lethal and non-lethal weaponry, including tanks, air defence systems, and long-range precision strike missiles.
Safety at Ukraine's occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is deteriorating after a drone strike on the road surrounding it, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said on Saturday.
Earlier today, the IAEA Support and Assistance Mission to Zaporizhzhia (ISAMZ) team was informed that an explosive carried by a drone detonated just outside the plant's protected area.
A visit by the team found no casualties and no damage to nuclear equipment - but the surrounding road and gates were impacted.
The impact site was close to the essential cooling water sprinkler ponds and about 100m from the Dniprovska power line, the only remaining 750-kilovolt line providing a power supply to the plant, the team said.
IAEA Director General Grossi commented: "Yet again we see an escalation of the nuclear safety and security dangers facing the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.
"I remain extremely concerned and reiterate my call for maximum restraint from all sides and for strict observance of the five concrete principles established for the protection of the plant."
The ISAMZ team has reported heightened military activity in the area over the past week.
Germany plans to halve its military aid to Ukraine in 2025, according to a parliamentary source.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz is instead planning to use money generated from frozen Russian assets in Germany to support Ukraine's war against Russia, the source told AFP on Saturday.
It is not planning "any additional aid" to the $4.4bn (£3.4bn) already set aside in next year’s budget, the source added.
But Germany's foreign ministry denied the claims on X on Saturday.
"Rumours that Germany stops its support to #Ukraine are wrong," a post read.
"We stand with Ukraine & will support Ukraine as long as it takes.
"Since the beginning of Russia's war of aggression, Germany has supported Ukraine with €34 billion.
"This year, we will provide military aid north of €7 billion."
Germany is Ukraine's second biggest military donor, providing £6.8bn in aid this year.
The leader of Russia's Chechnya region has appeared in a video threatening to send a Telsa into Ukraine – while praising Elon Musk.
Ramzan Kadyrov, who is known for extravagant publicity stunts, posted the video of himself on Telegram.
It shows him driving a Tesla Cybertruck, seemingly with a machine gun strapped to the roof.
He says he will send the vehicle into the Ukrainian conflict zone, before praising the company's chief executive Elon Musk.
Mr Kadyrov describes Musk as the "strongest genius of modern times", inviting him to Chechnya.
"We... await your future products that will help us finish the special military operation," referring to the Kremlin’s term for the Ukraine war.
Two Italian journalists who angered Moscow with a TV report from Ukrainian-controlled parts of Kursk will return to Italy for their own safety, according to Italian state broadcaster RAI.
Russia's foreign ministry summoned Italy's ambassador yesterday over what it called an "illegal border crossing" by the RAI crew.
The interior ministry was planning to open criminal cases against the two journalists, posted Baza, a Telegram channel close to Russian law enforcement.
"The company decided to make journalist Stefania Battistini and cameraman Simone Traini return temporarily to Italy, solely to ensure personal safety and security," RAI said.
"Journalism is not a crime. The Moscow authorities' possibility of putting Stefania Battistini and Simone Traini on trial is unacceptable. Reporting is not done with prior authorisations," RAI union Usigrai and Italy's national press union FNSI said in a joint statement.
A four-person RAI crew, working under Ukrainian military escort, produced the first foreign media report from the war-damaged Russian town of Sudzha last week.
Italy's foreign ministry said its ambassador Cecilia Piccioni had explained to the Russian authorities that RAI and its news teams acted independently and autonomously.
The two reporters are scheduled to fly back to the northern Italian city of Milan tomorrow.
Security and defence correspondent Deborah Haynes was at the site of a missile strike in Sumy city this morning.
Residents described being awoken by a huge explosion.
One said the blinds across her window saved her from glass shattering as a result of the blast.
Watch more below...
Washington appears to be effectively blocking the UK from permitting Kyiv to fire Storm Shadow missiles inside Russia, The Times reports.
The UK has been waiting for US approval for over a month, a government source said.
The British government wants Ukraine to use the weapons as they wish, but consensus is required between the US, France and another unnamed NATO country.
A government source stressed to The Times that the UK was not blaming the US for any delay.
Britain was the first country to publicly supply Kyiv with long-range cruise missiles.
While it has permitted the use of British tanks and other weapons on Russian soil, restrictions remain on the missiles.
A British source previously said Ukrainian troops are thought to have used British Challenger 2 tanks inside Kursk.
Ukraine's success in Kursk has shown the West it does not need to take an incremental approach to Russia, says Ukrainian MP Oleksiy Goncharenko.
Kyiv's allies need to approve the use of Western weapons to strike deep inside its territory, he said.
He added the incremental style of Western support has only drawn out the war.
"Watch the Russian reaction. For more than one week, for the first time since the Second World War, Russian territory is occupied. And what is the reaction? Just some mumbling from Putin," said Mr Goncharenko.
"I hope that this will help us to convince our allies that Ukraine is capable of big successes and to win this war, so finally our hands will be untied," he said, adding Ukraine needs permission to use the UK's Storm Shadow missiles deep into Russian territory.
"I think this incremental style is very, very bad."
He continued: "Russia only understands one language, the language of force, and Ukraine has shown it now."
Kyiv has dismissed "insane Russian propaganda" alleging that Ukraine plans to carry out nuclear attacks.
Moscow has accused Ukraine - without providing any evidence - of gearing up to attack Kursk nuclear power plant and developing a "dirty bomb"; an explosive used to scatter radioactive waste.
The Russian defence ministry said Ukraine would blame Moscow and that it would respond harshly in the event of such an attack.
The allegations were "dangerous lies" and Ukraine officially denies them, said Ukrainian foreign office spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi.
"We are witnessing another surge of insane Russian propaganda."
He continued: "Ukraine has neither the intention nor the ability to carry out any such actions. Russia must stop spreading dangerous lies.
"Ukraine has always been and remains a loyal member of the NPT (Non-proliferation treaty).
"We do not have any 'dirty bombs' and do not plan to acquire them."
Vladimir Putin made similar allegations shortly before launching the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Then, in March the same year, Moscow alleged Ukraine was going to use a dirty bomb. Neither claims were borne out.
Russia also alleged a Ukrainian drone dropped an explosive charge on a road outside the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine this morning.
Its Russian management posted an image to Telegram showing several men in IAEA jackets surrounding a dent in the road the width and depth of a pothole.
Both Russia and Ukraine have accused eachother of close calls with drones and rockets at the power plant since Russia occupied it.
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COMMENTS
Travel Scotland in comfort and style with Caledonian Sleeper, the overnight rail service connecting London and Scotland. Book your tickets online today.
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Sleeper trains in the UK Green Traveller's guide to the two main overnight rail services in the UK Travelling overnight on a train is a great way to travel long distances without having to stay in a hotel en route. There are two main overnight services in the UK: 1. The Caledonian Sleeper between London and Scotland and 2.
Travel overnight between Scotland and London on the Caledonian Sleeper. Board the Caledonian Sleeper in the evening and wake up in a new city or views of spectacular highland landscapes.
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Ukraine's foreign ministry describes "Russian propaganda" that its forces are planning to use dirty bombs or attack nuclear power plants in the Kursk region are "crazy". Russia's defence ministry ...