The train between London, Edinburgh and Glasgow is operated by East Coast, travelling up the east side of England and Scotland along the historical East Coast Mainline, between London King's Cross, Edinburgh and Glasgow Central. The relatively quick journey is a great alternative to flying, as it gets you right to the heart of the cities in a matter of hours, and for a very reasonable price (as long as you book in advance!).
East Coast Trains
East Coast runs services along the East Coast Mainline between London, the East Midlands, Yorkshire, the North East and Scotland. The East Coast Mainline is a 632km railway, forming a key north-south route on the eastern edge of the UK. It has a wealth of history, including being home to famous steam trains such as the Flying Scotsman and Mallard.
Nowadays, the trains are modern, offering both First and Second Class seating accommodation. Each passenger is permitted to take 3 medium sized items of luggage onboard for free. Passengers may also bring pets onboard with them, provided that they do not take up an additional seat. On top of this, one bicycle per passenger will also be carried free of charge. Bicycles are carried in a separate carriage. Space for your bike should be booked at the same time as your seat (request a cycle reservation either online, or in the station).
First Class:
First Class passengers can take advantage of free WiFi throughout their carriages, and power sockets are provided in most carriages. Passengers are served complimentary tea, coffee, water, orange juice and snacks at their seat. A full at-seat restaurant service is available (dining car food not included in fare). Standard Class passengers may be able to upgrade to a First Class ticket for a supplement.
First Class passengers (excluding First Advance and Weekend First ticket holders - supplement can be purchased for £5) can take advantage of First Class Lounges at eight stations on the East Coast Mainline route; London King's Cross, Leeds, Newcastle, Edinburgh Waverley, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Darlington, Wakefield Westgate and Doncaster. Lounges offer passengers complimentary refreshments and newspapers, as well as free WiFi, fax machines and photocopiers. Meeting rooms can also be hired at King's Cross, Leeds, Newcastle and Edinburgh (from £75 for half a day - call 08457 225 125).
Standard Class:
Standard Class passengers can choose to sit in the Quiet Coach, which is located at the end of the train (to minimise disturbance from passengers walking through). In this carriage, making or receiving mobile phone calls is prohibited, and the use of electrical equipment and talking with fellow passengers must be done quietly.
There is space for at least two wheelchairs on each service, with wheelchair accessible toilets available on electric Mallard trains (coaches F and L).
WiFi is available to Standard Class passengers, at a rate of £4.95 per hour, £9.95 for 24hrs (first 15mins free).