Caledonian Sleeper makes historic first departure from Birmingham to Scottish Highlands

The iconic Caledonian Sleeper train has departed Birmingham for the first time – opening a direct connection between the West Midlands and the Scottish Highlands.

The inaugural departure from Birmingham International station marked a significant milestone in the train’s history.

Guests boarding the overnight service – which links Birmingham with Aberdeen, Fort William and Inverness - enjoyed a traditional Scottish performance by Lorne MacDougall, an acclaimed bagpiper from Kintyre.

One of the first passengers onboard was popular online train enthusiast, Francis Bourgeois, who was travelling to Inverness.

The introduction of the Birmingham services is the first major Caledonian Sleeper timetable expansion in more than three decades.

Graham Kelly, managing director at Caledonian Sleeper, said: “This is a historical moment for the Caledonian Sleeper introducing our first overnight service from and to Birmingham International. 

“It opens up an entirely unique way for people to travel comfortably, sustainably and effortlessly between the West Midlands and the Scottish Highlands.

“In addition to leisure travel from the Midlands, the new link connects businesses at both ends of the route supporting economic ties between the West Midlands and Scotland across energy, engineering, manufacturing, professional services and hospitality between the regions.”

Helen Bates, acting managing director at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, was there to see the inaugural service depart.

She was joined by Andrew Lovett, chair of the West Midlands Tourism & Hospitality Advisory Board, Nikki Bains, head of Transport, Strategy and Planning at Birmingham Airport, and Cllr Karen Grinsell, leader of Solihull Council.

Helen said: “Strong connectivity is vital to strengthening business and tourism links and this new overnight service to Scotland further enhances Birmingham International’s role as a key gateway for the regional and national economy. 

“This connection will support increased business travel and conference activity, particularly for major venues such as the NEC, while also opening up exciting leisure travel opportunities in both directions.

“By making it easier for visitors to travel sustainably between the West Midlands and Scotland, the service will help drive tourism, boost regional prosperity and encourage longer, more productive stays.”

West Midlands mayor Richard Parker has welcomed the new service, adding: “For the first time in more than 30 years we have an overnight rail service to the Highlands and that’s a real milestone for the region’s transport.

“It means people can once again enjoy the experience of closing their eyes in Birmingham and waking up refreshed in the breathtaking landscapes of northern Scotland.

“This is a world-class service that will strengthen ties between our regions and open up new opportunities for tourism and trade – helping to drive greater growth and prosperity.”

Pictured: From left - Andrew Lovett, Cllr Karen Grinsell, Helen Bates, Steven Harrison (surface access officer, Birmingham Airport), Peter Sargant (West Midlands Rail Executive), Graham Kelly and Nikki Bains