Caledonian Sleeper makes Birmingham its newest stop

The iconic Caledonian Sleeper has announced a historic update to its overnight train service’s timetable, with the inclusion of a new calling point at Birmingham International in January 2026.

The move opens up direct, convenient access for Birmingham residents to the Scottish Highlands.

In the most significant change to its timetable in over three decades, tickets for the new service will be available from this week, with the inaugural departure from Birmingham International station scheduled for the evening of 15 January 2026.

This new service will connect Birmingham directly with Aberdeen, Fort William, and Inverness.

With the West Midlands to the Highlands being underserved by existing transport options, this new route aims to bridge the travel gap, allowing residents of Birmingham to explore Scotland’s dramatic landscapes, outdoor adventures, whisky trails and historic sites, all accessible via a comfortable overnight journey.

Graham Kelly, interim managing director at Caledonian Sleeper, said: “This historic timetable update marks a significant milestone in our mission to further boost sustainable cross border travel options.

“Birmingham is the latest city set to benefit from our high-quality overnight train service as residents will be able to drift off in the West Midlands in their own private room and wake up to beautiful views of the Scottish Highlands.

“Similarly, we believe our new route will be incredibly popular with leisure tourists from Scotland given the wide range of sights and attractions in Birmingham and across the West Midlands to be discovered.

West Midlands mayor Richard Parker said: “From next year, the region will welcome a legend of the railway – the Caledonian Sleeper.

“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.”

Becky Frall, Head of Tourism at the West Midlands Growth Company, added: “The launch of the Caledonian Sleeper to Birmingham offers another great rail option to the city and the wider region, opening the door for more people north of the border and along its route to take a cultural break bookended by ease of travelling in comfort by train. 

“From acclaimed Michelin-starred dining, art galleries and world-class cultural institutions including the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and Birmingham Royal Ballet, we can't wait to welcome even more visitors and show off what makes the West Midlands so special.”

Click here to purchase tickets and enjoy a virtual tour of the iconic overnight train service.

Pictured from left to right: Caledonian sleeper hosts Kris Angus and Kayleigh Sneddon