A FAMOUS UK train could soon be travelling from the UK to mainland Europe.
The Caledonian Sleeper, known for its overnight routes between London and Scotland, could soon head from Scotland to destinations in Europe.
Following a meeting, the train operator is now looking into opportunities for the sleeper to head abroad.
Stephen Flynn, the Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport said of the project: “We are committed to exploring the potential for a direct Caledonian Sleeper service to mainland Europe, and I am pleased that this work is now underway.
“This is an early-stage exercise and the study will focus on understanding the practical, technical and commercial considerations involved. The findings will provide an evidence base to inform any future decisions.”
Findings of the study are expected to be published later this year.
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The Caledonian Sleeper currently runs services between London Euston, Birmingham International and major destinations across Scotland including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness and Fort William.
Routes include the Lowlander Route and the Highlander Route.
The Caledonian Sleeper operates six nights a week, with Saturday being the only day there isn’t a service.
What’s it like to travel on the Caledonian Sleeper?
TRAVEL reporter Cyann Fielding recently travelled on the Caledonian Sleeper, and here are her thoughts:
Ever since watching Murder on the Orient Express, Harry Potter and The Polar Express, I have wanted to journey on a long train route with dramatic views.
The Caledonian Sleeper gave me just that.
Onboard, there were plenty of forest green walls, carpeted floors, large windows and of course – narrow corridors with numerous doors leading into cosy cabins.
Whilst snug, my cabin featured a bunk bed – both beds have a soft duvet, plug access, a reading lamp and goodies for a good night’s sleep (think – a bottle of water, an eye mask and ear plugs).
Just like magic, in the morning I woke up and was in sunny Scotland, with rolling hills and sprawling lakes whizzing past my window.
The excitement of that moment was probably the most special part of the journey – waking up in a different country, slipping on my slippers and slogging to breakfast really did feel like an indulgent travel experience.
For a Club en-suite room, it costs around £200 per way, for a single occupant.
If you are sharing with someone, it will cost around £280 total, per way.
There is also the option of the seated carriage, where tickets cost from £50 per way, per passenger.
Currently the only trains between the UK and mainland Europe are via the Eurostar and Channel Tunnel.
Eurostar’s destinations include Paris, Brussels and Rotterdam.
However, Virgin Trains is set to launch by the end of the decade, promising services to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam.
The company is also hoping to launch routes to Disneyland Paris, other parts of France and into Germany and Switzerland in the future.