Showing posts with label Train Travel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Train Travel. Show all posts

Sunday, June 15, 2025

Why We Skipped the Plane and Took LNER First Class to Edinburgh

ABBEY: If you’re planning a trip from London to Edinburgh, one of the best ways to travel is by train—and for a truly comfortable experience, we highly recommend booking first-class tickets.


We began our journey at the iconic King’s Cross Station in London. Before boarding, we had access to the First Class Lounge, which offers a lovely view of the trains arriving and departing. The lounge provides light refreshments, including chips, tea, and coffee. While I wasn’t a fan of the coffee’s taste (perhaps something to do with the water), the shortbread cookies were a delicious treat—definitely worth grabbing a few before the ride!


Boarding the train was smooth. We easily found a spot for our luggage and settled into our assigned seats, which were spacious, clean, and comfortable. Shortly after departure, staff came around to check our tickets and offered hot drinks. I’m glad to report that the coffee on board was much better, especially enjoyed with the scenic countryside viewsrolling by the large windows.


For our onboard meal, we were served a roast chicken brioche roll, a tasty option that hit the spot. The onboard toilet facilities, however, were a bit underwhelming and could use some updating—but that was a small drawback in an otherwise pleasant journey.


After nearly five hours, we arrived in Edinburgh, greeted by a light drizzle and chilly air—exactly the kind of weather we had anticipated in this historic and charming city.


If you’re considering train travel between London and Edinburgh, especially in first class, it’s a comfortable and scenic alternative to flying. Plus, it’s a great way to see more of the British countryside while traveling in style.


Inside LNER First Class train from London to Edinburgh, showing spacious seats and calm travel atmosphere
Why We Skipped the Plane and Took LNER First Class to Edinburgh

WILL: Another trip, another train ride — and yes, I’m still loving it! I don’t know when exactly I fell in love with long train journeys, but I do know that they’ve become one of my favourite ways to travel. Especially when Abbey and I are together.


This time, we needed to get from London to Edinburgh. Flying? Nope. We wanted to avoid the long airport lines, baggage hassles, and all the stress that comes with flying these days. So once again, we turned to the train — and not just any train, but LNER First Class.


There are a few ways to travel this route, but here’s why we picked LNER First Class:


🚫 Sleeper trains were out of the question for us. We’d read too many reviews saying the ride wasn’t comfortable, sleep was impossible, and the toilets — well, let’s not go there. 

🚫 Regular economy class didn’t appeal to us either — crowded carriages and stories of missing bags weren’t very reassuring.

✅ So we chose LNER First Class — and it was the right choice.


Before boarding, we hung out in the LNER lounge. It was a decent waiting space — quiet, clean, and had chips, tea, and coffee. Not exactly luxurious, but still better than standing around at a crowded platform.


Once we got on the train, though, it felt like First Class for real. The seats were spacious and comfortable, and our steward was genuinely cheerful, always walking by with more tea and snacks. There was a calm, relaxed vibe that you don’t usually get in crowded public transport. And yes — the toilet was clean the entire trip! That may seem like a small thing, but on long journeys, it really matters.


What I appreciated most was the peace of mind. I wasn’t worried about my belongings. I didn’t have to deal with overhead luggage bins or people bumping into me. We could just sit back, enjoy the views, sip on tea, and enjoy the ride together.


So, would we travel this way again? Absolutely. And if you’re someone who values comfort, quiet, and a smoother travel experience, I’d definitely recommend LNER First Class.


What about you — have you ever tried this train? Or would you still prefer to fly? Let me know in the comments!



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LNER - London North Eastern Railway

(W) https://www.lner.co.uk/



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Inside LNER First Class train from London to Edinburgh, showing spacious seats and calm travel atmosphere