Iconic UK sleeper train between London and Scotland gets biggest change in 30 years

One of the UK's most iconic trains has announced its biggest change in over 30 years. The famous Caledonian Sleeper, which serves around 300,000 passenger journeys annually, looks set to introduce a brand new route that will make travelling in style much easier.

The London to Scotland overnight service is one of only two remaining in the UK, alongside the Night Riviera which runs from the English capital to Penzance, Cornwall. Having been in service across three different centuries after debuting back in 1873, it had long consisted of two services, the Highlander and the Lowlander, departing London Euston Station each night from Sunday to Friday.

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

But as of January 26, 2026, the Highlander route will have an extra stop: at Birmingham International in what marks the biggest timetable change in 30 years.

Presently, the only stops on the London and Edinburgh route are Preston and Crewe, but the Caledonian Sleeper has now added the Midlands to its list of pick-ups and drop-offs.

The new route will run six days a week, with no services available on a Saturday night.

It comes after research is claimed to point towards a growing demand for a stop in Birmingham, and it is thought it will contribute to a seismic boom to tourism in the city and beyond.

Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, said in a statement: "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.

"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."

The operator has ensured customers who already use the service that journey lengths and departure times will remain unaffected.

Please note, the Lowlander train will not stop at Birmingham International, but will continue stopping at Watford Junction, Carlisle, Carstairs, and Motherwell before terminating in Glasgow.

For more information, such as prices and how to book a ticket on the new-look Caldonian Sleeper, visit the official website.