UK First Class train travel: What to expect & where to book

Benefits vary by train operator, but commonly include:

• Larger, reclining seats with more legroom
• Complimentary food and drink (varies by time of day)
• Power sockets, tray tables, and Wi-Fi
• Quieter carriages and fewer passengers
• Station lounge access (on select operators)
• Advance seat reservations

Some First Class experiences are more premium than others, so use the operator-specific links below to compare.

Travel between London, Birmingham, Manchester or Glasgow in style with gourmet meals, lounge access, and comfortable seating aboard Pendolino trains.

Travel overnight in luxury with Club and Double rooms, en-suite showers, priority boarding, lounge access, and complimentary meals. Ideal for long-distance travel between London and Scotland.

A quieter experience on long-distance routes, with at-seat service, snacks, and free Wi-Fi — but no hot meals or lounges.

East Midlands Railway provides upgraded seats, power outlets, and light refreshments — ideal for business travel between Sheffield, Nottingham, Leicester and London.

Offers extra legroom and complimentary snacks on routes between London and the North East. A low-frills upgrade with quiet coaches.

Provides larger seats, USB power, and extra space — but no free food or drink. Offered on select Intercity routes to Norwich, Ipswich, and Colchester.

GWR offers one of the more premium First Class experiences, with Pullman dining on some routes, hot meals, at-seat service, and First Class lounges at key stations.

Enjoy relaxed seating, complimentary drinks, and extra workspace on this open-access route between Hull and London King’s Cross.

Running on the East Coast Main Line, LNER’s First Class offers restaurant-style dining, Azuma train upgrades, and lounge access in major cities.

You currently cannot buy a London Northwestern Railway First Class ticket. First Class has been removed from all LNR services as of May 21, 2023. Find out more here.

A quieter, more spacious option on routes between London Waterloo and the South Coast — though no complimentary refreshments are offered.

Offered on select intercity routes in Scotland. Features larger seats, snacks, free Wi-Fi, and access to First Class lounges in Glasgow and Edinburgh.

TPE First Class includes plush seating, complimentary snacks and drinks, and a peaceful atmosphere across routes between Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle and Scotland.

First Class is available on limited TfW services, offering bigger seats, light refreshments, and more space — best on routes between Cardiff and North Wales.

It depends on the operator, route, and your priorities. For long journeys with meals and lounges, First Class can be excellent value. For short commuter trips, you’re often just paying for extra space and peace. Off-peak First Class fares and Railcard discounts can make upgrading surprisingly affordable.