Night train travel: A unique experience for European tourists
Maureen O’Hare reports, sleeping on a night train provides a truly enjoyable experience, allowing travelers to wake up to a whole new adventure.
Writing about her journey on CNN, Maureen O’Hare described her experience on the Caledonian Sleeper: “It was Tuesday night on the Caledonian Sleeper and onboard service was in full swing.” Passengers can enjoy Scottish delicacies such as haggis, neeps and tatties, then sample single malt whiskey and Edinburgh gin in cozy booths decorated in burnt orange and teal.
O’Hare said: “We left London’s busy Euston station at 8pm and just over 12 hours later we arrived at Fort William.
Covering a 500-mile journey from the south to the north of the UK, the route is considered the most scenic of the five Caledonian Sleeper routes, passing through both Scottish cities and the heart of the Highlands.
Refurbished in 2019 with a $200 million investment, the Caledonian Sleeper continues a 150-year tradition of an overnight train service between London and Scotland. It remains one of only two night train services in the UK, the other being the Night Riviera Sleeper, which travels west from London Paddington to the coastal town of Penzance in Cornwall.
Fares for the Caledonian Sleeper are flexible. For those willing to try their luck with a reclining chair, with adjustable lighting, headrest, padded seat and footrest, tickets start at around £55 ($72).
However, this is around £20 more than a one-hour return flight to Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital. However, many tourists still prefer Caledonian Sleeper for its charm, luxury and environmental friendliness.
The most luxurious option is a double room with a private bathroom, comfortable bed, in-room breakfast service and access to the train station lounge, which usually costs around $325 per person for a one-way ticket. These rooms often sell out well in advance.
Simon Butterworth, who traveled with companion Elizabeth Coppard to the Outer Hebrides, said the night train was a cost-effective way to experience the countryside.
When you factor in the costs of airport transfers, taxis, car rentals, parking and overnight accommodations, the Classic Room (with bunk beds, sink and shared bathroom facilities) is a smart and convenient choice. Benefits at a price of about 166 USD per person.
For those who love the romance of train travel, like passenger Will Swain, the night train even provides the perfect backdrop for special moments. Swain planned to propose to his girlfriend, Chloe Beckett, during the cruise.
O’Hare observes: “Sleeping on a night train is an incredibly enjoyable experience, as the carriage gently rocks you in your cradle, the engine and wheels creating a soothing melody—sometimes interrupted by the sound of metal”.
Waking up at 7 a.m., through the rain-stained window, I looked out at the dense Scottish pine forest, the mist-shrouded hills and the dim light of the lake water. Despite the less-than-ideal weather on our September journey, the Scottish Highlands remained majestic, showing off their unique beauty in both rain and occasional sunshine.
The cost of the trip may be the same as a stay at a 5-star hotel, but waking up in a fresh and completely unique natural setting is a wonderful experience.
The ship’s bathroom is surprisingly spacious and refreshing, providing a strong stream of water just like a hotel bathroom.
Complimentary breakfast is available to guests staying in rooms with private bathrooms. The menu includes Scottish specialties such as Lorne sausages cooked to traditional standards.
After disembarking at Fort William station, we enjoyed coffee and snacks in the Caledonian Sleeper lounge, chatting to train conductor John Hynd, who was enjoying a well-deserved break. John Hynd has worked for the agency since 1979 and proudly states that he has never taken a sick day. His father also worked on the railways as a signalman and moved to Fort William in the 1960s.
Experience the uniqueness of Europe’s night trains and discover a new way of traveling that combines luxury, comfort and adventure.
