Plans for direct sleeper trains between Scotland and mainland Europe are being explored, with a working group having met for the first time to deliver a feasibility study. Transport Scotland, the Scottish national transport agency, announced this week that this group will assess the potential for a direct Caledonian Sleeper service to the continent.
The Caledonian Sleeper, operated by Scottish Rail, currently runs five northbound and southbound routes six nights a week, connecting various destinations in Scotland and England, including London, Aberdeen, and Edinburgh.
The working group includes representatives from Transport Scotland, Scottish Rail Holdings, and Caledonian Sleeper. Their mandate is to oversee the feasibility study, which will examine how the sleeper rail service could be extended to Europe, potentially using the Channel Tunnel.
This initiative aligns with a Scottish government manifesto commitment by the SNP to explore train connections to Europe to reduce air travel. Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport Stephen Flynn stated that this is an early-stage exercise focused on understanding practical, technical, and commercial considerations. The findings will provide an evidence base for future decisions.