The chief executive of the renowned Caledonian Sleeper has suggested potential future destinations as the train service commences journeys from Birmingham. Recently, the Sleeper made its first stop at Birmingham International, picking up passengers at 10.44pm before heading to Scotland.
This new service, the first connecting Birmingham and Scotland in thirty years, is a significant achievement for Caledonian Sleeper. Graham Kelly, the Managing Director, mentioned that they are contemplating additional stops, particularly looking at Manchester, the largest city on the west coast not currently served by the train but strategically located on the London Euston to West Scotland line.
Mr. Kelly highlighted that the main challenge in including Manchester as a stop is the complexity of scheduling. He emphasized the importance of finding suitable timings that would attract passengers. The possibility of adding more Scottish destinations is also being considered for future rail years.
Manchester currently lacks sleeper train services, and if the Caledonian Sleeper expands to include Manchester, it would offer a convenient overnight travel option for passengers heading to Scotland or London.
The Birmingham service on Thursday featured a traditional Scottish performance by bagpiper Lorne MacDougall. Noteworthy passengers on this inaugural journey included railway enthusiast Francis Bourgeois traveling to Inverness.
Mr. Kelly acknowledged the extensive effort put in by the Sleeper team and the rail industry to incorporate Birmingham into the existing timetable without needing additional rolling stock. He emphasized the complexities of introducing a new stop, highlighting the collaboration with Network Rail to adjust service timings.
Furthermore, Mr. Kelly emphasized the environmentally friendly aspect of the Sleeper, emitting significantly lower CO2 compared to car and air travel. The service operated at 90% capacity in 2025, with the addition of the Birmingham stop expected to increase occupancy levels. Mr. Kelly also assured that ticket prices would not see an increase.
Regarding the seating options on the Sleeper, Mr. Kelly explained that UK rail standards prevent the use of reclining seats, but improvements such as dimming cabin lights have been made in response to passenger feedback.
