Last Updated on October 22, 2025 by Leah Hall
Join us on our Caledonian Sleeper Train adventure from London to Scotland, and see what’s in store for you if you try it out, too!
There’s something magical about boarding a train in one place and waking up in another. Our overnight train journey from London to Inverness, Scotland on the Caledonian Sleeper was the perfect mix of adventure and hassle-free, all while gliding through the dark English countryside. Check out some of our trip in Scotland with our stay at Glenmorangie House and Glenmorangie Distillery!
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We started the trip at London Euston Station, where we had priority access to the first class lounge. This lounge was a spot with snacks, tea and drinks to kick off the trip. There was food available too, but there was quite a wait for that food, so we just had some snacks and drinks while we waited.
Caledonian Sleeper Train
When called, we boarded the train and found our club en-suite room, a (cozy) space with twin bunks, charging USB ports, plugs, small sink and even an en-suite toilet: an upgrade from an average sleeper experience! The toilet area also doubles as the wet room shower, which Jay took advantage of the next morning.
For those who want more space (and a touch of space), the train also offers a double bed option or even a family room (interconnecting rooms) with bunk beds for four. The seated coach is another option for travelers looking to save while still enjoying the ride. We missed out on the double room, but if we did this trip again, we would make sure to book way early to get this option and not feel so closed in our room.
Caledonian Sleeper Train Club Car
Once settled in, we headed to the club car. This lounge is perfect for meeting other riders or sipping a nightcap before bed. The menu features hot food, drinks, plus Scottish favorites, with friendly staff keeping things running. The club car is also where you will have breakfast the next morning, with 2 staggered breakfast reservation times. You will mark this option on the card in your room: breakfast in the club car or room service if you’d rather enjoy a quiet nosh in your cabin.
As the train pulled out of the train station, London’s lights faded and the gentle rhythm of the tracks set in. The Caledonian Sleeper train makes long trips like this feel effortless. We had a small snack and a couple drams in the club car while watching the lights fade outside.
We then made our way to our room and dug out jammies and toothbrushes in our small space to get ready for bed. Tip: plan a small bag with your overnight gear so you don’t have to open a huge suitcase, we had a small tote that we kept our toiletries and clothes for the next day in, which would fit into our luggage the next day! This just made fitting in the small space so much simpler.
Sleeping on an Overnight Train
Sleep quality on a moving train does come with some sway and creak, (Dramamine and motion sickness patches are super helpful!) but the beds were not bad and the privacy made a difference for us. It was great not having to leave the room to go to the bathroom or shower. We drifted off somewhere around midnight (with the help of the provided ear plugs and eye mask) and woke up to rolling foothills of the Scottish Highlands, misty lochs and sun peaking through the clouds.
Club Car Breakfast
Morning came early, and we had to make our way to the club car again before 7:30 for our Caledonian Sleeper breakfast service. Jay opted for the traditional Scottish breakfast, complete with eggs, sausage, black pudding, and toast, a hearty and satisfying way to start the day. I had pancakes with berry compote. The service was warm and efficient, but we had to eat fairly quickly because the second seating had to eat. Eating while watching the Highlands roll by might just be the best way to start a day! If you are wanting a more leisurely repast, you may want to opt for the second seating.
The travel time from London to Inverness is around 11 hours, making it perfect for those who want to maximize daylight at their destination, as we left around 8:15 PM, and arrived in Inverness around 8:30, even with some delays. We stopped in the Inverness Caledonian Lounge (across the street from the train station), had some coffee, small snacks, a shower (for Leah) and private bathroom facilities.
For a trip that combines some cozy romance, convenience, and a unique travel experience, the Caledonian Sleeper delivers. It’s more than just getting from point A to point B, it’s a journey through the landscape, a moving hotel where the Highlands greet you at sunrise.
Tips & Tricks
- Showering – For those wanting to freshen up, shower facilities are available in the station lounges when you arrive, which is a huge perk after an overnight trip.
- Packing – as I stated earlier, a great tip is to pack a small bag rather than trying to open a large bag while in the tiny compartment. Trust us, there isn’t much room to work with!
If you’re planning a long trip through England and Scotland and want to make the most of every moment, this overnight train is the way to go!
Cheers!
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