The Caledonian Sleeper train is getting a new route in biggest change in 30 years

Train travel is often far from glamourous with passengers often engaging in unseemly behaviours like ‘T-bagging’ or ‘bare beating’.

But it can be enjoyable if you do it right, and now, the famous Caledonian Sleeper is launching a brand new route, making travelling in style even easier.

Serving around 300,000 passenger journeys each year, the train offers a premium experience, with private, ensuite cabins allowing travellers to sleep peacefully through the journey.

Until now, the sleeper service had only operated two routes from London to Scotland, the Highlander and the Lowlander.

The Highlander runs to destinations like Aberdeen, Fort William and Inverness, while the Lowlander runs from the capital to Glasgow and Edinburgh.

But, on January 15, 2026, the Highlander route will have a stop added at Birmingham International, the biggest timetable change in 30 years, according to operators.

Currently, the only stops between London and the Scottish capital on this route are Preston and Crewe, but the Caledonian Sleeper will now serve the midlands, too.

The change comes as research suggests there was demand for a Birmingham stop, and its thought this will contribute to tourism in north Scotland and to Birmingham.

‘This iconic service means people from across the West Midlands will soon be able to travel comfortably and sustainably to discover the stunning beauty of northern Scotland,’ said the Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker.

‘But this also means our Scottish friends can come and explore the wonderful West Midlands. That’s a win-win for our tourism and hospitality businesses on both sides of the border.’

It will increase the already record-breaking 145.4 million visits to the West Midlands back in 2023.

The Lowlander train will not be stopping at Birmingham International though, so check your route before you hop on. This journey will continue to stop at Watford Junction, Carlisle, Carstairs, and Motherwell for the services terminating in Glasgow.

This new and improved Caledonian Sleeper Highlander route will run six days a week, with no services available on a Saturday night.

Interim managing director, Graham Kelly, assured customers who already use the train service that journey lengths and departure times wouldn’t be affected by the new stop.

How much does the Caledonian Sleeper cost?

How much your journey costs you on the Caledonian Sleeper is dependent on the type of room you opt for.

If you decide to sit in seated coach, it’s a similar vibe to flying business class, with reclining seats, charging points, reading lights and lockable storage for you – as well as breakfast available at an extra cost.

This starts from £54 per person, but if you want more privacy, you can opt for a classic room with a twin bunk or single bed option, which will set you back £270 or £200 respectively.

The club ensuite is a similar set up, except you get a private ensuite with a shower, and you can get the twin option starting at £340 or the single option starting at £260.

If you’re really looking for luxury, then the Caledonian double en-suite room can cost you £445.

So will you be commuting to the Midlands in style?