The UK’s longest overnight train – 500 miles and an incredible sunrise

The UK’s longest whisks you around 500 miles from the capital to the tip of , rocking you awake in time to wake up to a highland sunrise.

One of only two sleeper train routes in the UK, travellers can rest in double beds aboard The Caledonian Sleeper before waking up to breakfast with a view. 

The Lowland route either takes you from to Edinburgh or Glasgow, and the Highland route departs earlier and offers three options: Stirling, Inverness and Fort William.

If you’re in it just for the experience, the Highland route to Fort William is known for its stunning Deerstalker route along the West Highland Line, offering unforgettable views of lochs, moors and the Ben Nevis mountain range. 

The seven-hour Lowland Sleeper doesn’t offer the chance to take in as much of the scenery as most of the journey is in darkness, but it passes the iconic Loch Lomond, surrounded by rolling hills and forests. 

The Highland route also passes through the Trossachs, a national park known for its lush forests, rolling hills, and tranquil lochs, including Loch Katrine.

Guests can choose between a double bed in the Caledonian Double En-suite, or twin bunks in the Club En-suite, which also has room service, Wi-Fi, and a complimentary breakfast in the exclusive Club Car lounge. 

The Classic Room similarly has twin bunks and a washbasin without the bells and whistles, while seated coach is as it sounds – an adjustable seat with a headrest and footrest. 

Club and Caledonian Double passengers can also use Euston’s Avanti First Class lounge for up to two hours before. 

The Lowland Sleeper takes 7.5 hours, leaving London Euston at 11.50pm and arriving in Glasgow or Edinburgh around 7.20am, while the Highland Sleeper leaves earlier at 9.15pm and takes 8–12 hours depending on destination.

It operates every night except Saturdays, and the occasional holiday blackout including December 24, 25, and 31.