CrossCountry First Class: Everything you need to know

Sarah Bowtell

Published: Mar 25, 2025

Updated: Aug 31, 2026

CrossCountry First Class: Everything you need to know

If you’re thinking about a CrossCountry First Class upgrade on your next trip, we’ve got just the guide for you. Read on for all the details on what’s included, seating plans and whether we think CrossCountry First Class is worth the extra spend.

Photo by TheFrog001

What is included with CrossCountry First Class?

When deciding whether to opt for a First Class upgrade, we think it’s essential to know what’s included for the extra cost.

By travelling in CrossCountry First Class, you’ll get:

Larger, more spacious seats for a more comfortable trip.
A chance to refuel with complimentary refreshments
More table space to help you make the most of your journey

You’ll also find free Wi-Fi available in both Standard and First Class.

How to upgrade to First Class on CrossCountry

It’s simple to book CrossCountry First Class tickets using our journey planner. Pop in your preferred route and date, select the best journey option for you, and then, before heading to the payment screen, click on ‘View 1st Class & More Tickets’ to see which First Class tickets are available.

If you’ve already booked your ticket but fancy travelling in style with a CrossCountry First Class upgrade on the day, you can speak to the Train Manager onboard to check fares and availability.

Another option if you’ve already booked your tickets is upgrading via the Seatfrog app. This allows you to bid for a last-minute CrossCountry First Class upgrade on selected routes from as little as £10. Don’t forget that if you upgrade through Seatfrog, you’ll need to have your original standard ticket as well as your Seatfrog upgrade barcode to access First Class.

Does CrossCountry have a First Class seating plan?

First Class seating is available on CrossCountry Voyager trains and can be found in Coach A of both four- and five-coach trains. We’d recommend checking the side of the train where the First Class carriages will be marked clearly,

Check out the full CrossCountry First Class seating plan here.

Please note that journeys operating Turbostar Trains feature entirely Standard Class seating.

CrossCountry First Class menu

Your CrossCountry First Class ticket generally includes complimentary refreshments such as a selection of hot drinks, crisps and cakes as well as tasty breakfast and lunch items. If you’re travelling at breakfast time, why not enjoy a bacon roll or a tasty croissant? Meanwhile, if it’s lunch you’re after, you can choose from a sandwich, wrap or sausage roll.

Want to know more? Discover the full First Class menu here.

Alcoholic beverages aren’t included as part of the First Class complimentary refreshments, so if you’re looking to enjoy a tipple during your journey, be sure to check out CrossCountry’s full menu.

Catering is available across many of CrossCountry's services, but be sure to check the catering map before you book so you know what to expect.

Does CrossCountry have First Class lounges?

No, unfortunately, First Class lounges aren’t currently part of CrossCountry’s offering, and a CrossCountry First Class ticket won’t grant you access to lounges operated by other providers.

Is CrossCountry First Class worth it?

This completely depends on what you’re looking to get out of your trip and how much a First Class upgrade will cost. We think it can be well worth it to enjoy the more comfortable seating and complimentary refreshments; however, don’t forget to check what’s included on your particular route, especially for catering.

If you’re considering travelling CrossCountry First Class, be sure to book your ticket as early as possible for the best prices and make the most of off-peak times and any applicable railcard discounts.