If you’re longing to experience the old-school romance that exuberates from a sleeper train, then you’re in luck; waking up in a brand-new city without worrying about airports or a hefty road trip is a piece of cake in London! There are presently two sleeper trains that depart from the capital, and it’s truly a magical way to travel that combines the convenience of overnight journeys with that previously mentioned romance of the rails.
Whether you’re looking to book a short break to Scotland or fancy heading west to Cornwall, these must-try sleeper trains will transport you to some of the UK’s most enchanting destinations as you snooze the night away. So without further ado, here’s your ultimate guide to two iconic sleeper services: the Caledonian Sleeper and the GWR Night Riviera Sleeper, as well as the fantastic cities they connect you to.
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The Caledonian Sleeper
If Scotland is on that bucket list, then the Caledonian Sleeper is your ticket to an unforgettable adventure. Departing from London Euston, this service whisks you away to Scotland’s most celebrated cities overnight, letting you arrive completely refreshed and ready to explore your desired location.
They currently have two routes, with The Highlander taking you to Inverness and Fort William via several stops, as well as The Lowlander which winds its way to Glasgow, Edinburgh, and beyond. For more information on each route and tickets for the Caledonian Sleeper, click here to visit their website. In the meantime, here are some of the cities and places you can visit via the legendary Caledonian Sleeper:
1. Edinburgh
The undisputed favourite when it comes to staycations via the Caledonian Sleeper, Edinburgh is the majestic capital of Scotland where history lives and breathes on every street. From enjoying panoramic views up Arthur’s Seat to exploring the labyrinth-like alleys of the Old Town, checking out the imposing Edinburgh Castle on Castle Rock, and beyond, there are so many fantastic things to do in this glorious city that we recommend getting some extra accommodation once you’re off the train.
Check out our friends at Secret Edinburgh to plan the perfect trip, whether you’re a history buff on the hunt for culture or an insatiable foodie who will be in desperate need of some Scottish ‘scran.
2. Aberdeen
Known as the ‘Granite City’ for its distinctive gray-stone buildings, Aberdeen offers a gorgeous blend of striking architecture in the city centre, with natural beauty from its direct access to the ocean and its mountainous surroundings. The Caledonian Sleeper brings you right to the beating heart of this bustling port city, where you can explore the charming cobblestone streets of Old Aberdeen, or get a breath of fresh air with a stroll along the golden sands of Aberdeen Beach and the city’s beloved Duthie Park.
3. Fort William
For those seeking some real adventure with this unforgettable trip to Scotland, Fort Williams is a must-visit destination on the Caledonian Sleeper route that’s otherwise known as the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’, and for excellent reason. This charming town sits at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain, making it a picture-perfect paradise for hikers and climbers.
Beyond the peaks of this beautiful sector of Scotland, you can explore the stunning landscapes of Glen Nevis or take another scenic train ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, famously featured as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films.
4. Inverness
Nestled in the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is the perfect gateway to exploring the country’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. This is the place where most venture if they wish to visit Loch Ness in search of its legendary monster, which is the perfect, mystical outing following a night on the Caledonian Sleeper.
History buffs will appreciate a visit to Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last major battle on British soil. Beyond the history, natural beauty, and nearby folklore, Inverness also offers so much when it comes to the arts and culture, including must-visit art galleries and museums.
5. Glasgow
For a true taste of Scotland, it doesn’t get much better than Glasgow. As Scotland’s largest city, it’s a cultural powerhouse that’s brimming with creativity and character. Wake up in the heart of the city and start your day with a visit to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to an eclectic collection of Scottish and Intenational art.
Head to Ashton Lane, a charming cobblestone street that’s lined with some of Glasgow’s best bars and restaurants. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a meal before diving head-first into Glasgow’s thriving live music scene. For more exciting things to do in the city, visit out friends at Secret Glasgow.
The GWR Night Riviera Sleeper
Fancy heading southwest? The GWR Night Riviera Sleeper is the quintessential way to travel to Cornwall if you’ve always wanted to try out a sleeper train. Offering a cosy and convenient overnight journey from London Paddinton, their sleeper service heads to western-most point in Cornwall that’s accessible by train, Penzance, making many stops along the way for the perfect, Cornish staycation. For more information and tickets, click here.
6. Penzance
As the Night Riviera’s final stop, Penzance is the perfect base for your Cornish adventure via sleeper train. The nearby St. Michael’s Mount (pictured above) is a medieval beauty to withhold, with a castle that seems like it’s been taken straight from a fairy tale.
Back in Penzance, take a leisurely stroll through this charming town, specifically the stunning promenade, or explore the art galleries and independent shops that give the town its bohemian vibe. Also, the Minack Theatre is a short drive away, which is an open-air theatre cared into the cliffs, offering spectacular sea views.
7. Truro
Truro, Cornwall’s only city, is a picturesque pitstop if you’re off on a Cornish staycation on the Night Riviera Sleeper. Be sure to explore the impressive Gothic cathedral, which dominates the city’s skyline, before checking out the bustling farmers’ market, of which, the area is famed for.
If you’re interested to learn more about Cornwall, don’t miss the Royal Cornwall Museum, where you can delve into the county’s rich history and culture which stretches back to Celtic times, boasting its own language and heritage.
8. St. Ives
Although not directly accessible by the Night Riviera Sleeper, St Ives is just an hour away on the train from Penzance, and is well worth the trip! Known for its incredible arts scene, this gorgeous seaside town is home to the Cornish equivalent of our beloved Tate galleries in London, boasting a mesmerising collection of modern British art.
Following an afternoon of art, wander the charming streets, popping into the many independent galleries and craft shops for a souvenir or two. There’s also some fantastic pubs and some stellar spots for the classic, British, seaside staple that is fish and chips.