As of 15 January 2026, the Caledonian Sleeper stops at Birmingham International on its overnight journey between Scotland and London Euston, making it easier than ever for Scottish travellers to wake up in the heart of the West Midlands.

It’s the first big timetable update the Sleeper has had in over 30 years, and while it’s not a brand-new service, the familiar Highlander routes now include Birmingham International as a new stop in both directions.

That means you can hop on in Scotland in the evening, settle in for the night, and arrive in Birmingham bright and early the next morning - ready to start exploring.

In Birmingham, we’re excited about the opportunities the new Caledonian Sleeper route will create for us - especially the chance to visit beautiful Scotland and its attractions more easily. And for our Scottish friends arriving in Birmingham, here are just some of the great things we can offer in return when you step off the train.

 

A One-day Itinerary:

Relaxed pace, strong food culture, canals, history, and a touch of indulgence.

07:00–08:30 | Arrive, Freshen Up & Options
 

  • Arrive at Birmingham International, quick train to Birmingham New Street - Trains between Birmingham International and Birmingham New Street are very quick - the average journey takes around 12–15 minutes, and the fastest services cover the route in about 9 minutes. This is one of the busiest short commuter routes in the West Midlands with up to about 7 trains per hour during most of the day.
     
  • Drop bags at your hotel – need one?  Look here.
     
  • Short walk to wake up gently - Birmingham is flatter and more compact than many expect.

*Quick Respite Before Heading to Birmingham City Centre? Explore NEC & Resort World Birmingham

Upon arrival at Birmingham International Station, Scottish visitors can immediately access the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) and its adjoining complex, Resorts World Birmingham, connected via a covered walkway. This area is ideal for easing into the day after an overnight train, offering a mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, and relaxation.

Shopping & Browsing: Resorts World features a variety of shops ranging from high-street favourites to designer brands and unique gift stores, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picking up last-minute souvenirs.

Dining & Drinks: There is a wide selection of restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets. Visitors can enjoy casual cafés, mid-range dining at venues such as Las Iguanas, The Alchemist, or Miller & Carter, and stylish cocktail bars or waterside terraces. Traditional pubs are also on hand for a pint or a whisky, allowing guests to experience a classic British pub atmosphere without leaving the complex.

Entertainment & Leisure: Resorts World offers plenty of ways to unwind and have fun. Guests can visit the cinema, enjoy a few frames at the bowling alley, or catch live music events when scheduled. For those who prefer a quieter pace, landscaped walkways and indoor lounges provide spaces to relax, stretch legs, or take in the surroundings before continuing into Birmingham city centre.

Nearby Attractions: Just minutes away by car or taxi is the National Motorcycle Museum, featuring over 1,000 motorcycles and interactive exhibits, ideal for a quick exploration of British engineering heritage. Additionally, bp pulse LIVE, located adjacent to the NEC, hosts concerts, comedy shows, and sporting events throughout the year, offering visitors the chance to catch live performances right on-site.
 

 

Arrived in Birmingham City Centre?
Good, Let’s Go…

 

09:00–10:30 | Breakfast & Brunch

We think you’ll love...
 

11:00–13:00 | Culture at a Leisurely Pace
 

Option 1 - Art & Museums
 

Option 2 - History & Heritage
 

Option 3 - Entertainment
 

  • Birmingham Hippodrome – West End musicals and theatre; often accessible for a matinee.
     
  • The Birmingham Rep – Smaller productions with strong local flavour.
     
  • Symphony Hall – World‑class concert hall with superb acoustics, offering classical orchestral concerts, jazz, and more.
     
  • The Jam House – Stylish live jazz, blues, soul and more in the Jewellery Quarter - great for an early evening gig.

13:00–14:30 | Lunch: Birmingham’s Secret Weapon

  • The Ivy Temple Row - Stylish, reliable, and Instagram-worthy interiors.
     
  • Asha's Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar – A popular, slightly more refined Indian lunch choice with curries, grills, and fusion dishes — great if you want something bold and satisfying.
     
  • SIAMAIS – Highly‑rated Thai restaurant in Brindleyplace with flavoursome food and a contemporary vibe - ideal for something a bit special but not overly pricey.
     
  • Adam’s - Michelin-starred, elegant tasting menus, impeccable service

Tip: Reserve a table in advance; midday menus are slightly lighter but still indulgent.

15:00–17:30 | Afternoon: Canals, Coffee & Character

Scenic Canal Walk: Gas Street Basin → Brindleyplace
 

  • Explore Birmingham’s historic canals - there are more miles of waterways here than in Venice, yet easy to stroll.
     
  • Flat, peaceful, and picturesque - perfect for a relaxed post-lunch wander after the overnight train.
     
  • Admire the mix of historic warehouses, modern offices, and vibrant street art, all reflected in the shimmering water.
     

Coffee & Refreshment Stops
 

  • Pop into independent cafés for a coffee, cake, or light snack while watching the canal life go by.
     
  • Enjoy a traditional waterside pub for a pint, local ale, or even a whisky dram - many with terraces right on the water.
     
  • This stretch is ideal for soaking up Birmingham’s character, blending history, modern culture, and local hospitality in one leisurely walk.
     

Relaxation & Massage?

For a late-afternoon recharge, Birmingham city centre has several high-quality spas and wellness centres where visitors can enjoy a massage or other treatments:

Boutique hotel spas can be found at Malmaison or Hotel du Vin.

18:00–22:00 |  Evening: Pubs or Dining

Option 1 – Classic Pub Evening

  • The Old Joint Stock – Stunning Victorian interior with theatre space; great for local ales/whisky.
     
  • The Wellington – One of the city’s most‑celebrated pubs with excellent real ales and classic pub vibes; regularly featured in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide. A legendary whisky selection.
     

Option 2 – Trendy Birmingham

  • Digbeth – street food, live music, creative bars
     
  • The Old Crown – Birmingham’s oldest pub (dating back to the 14th century) with loads of history and atmosphere - a favourite for visitors.
     
  • Custard Factory - a cultural hotspot for a younger, energetic vibe.
     

     

Day 2 | Optional Add-Ons

For visitors staying an extra day in the Birmingham area, there are several excellent excursions that are easy to reach by train or a short drive and offer a mix of history, culture, and fun:

Stratford-upon-Avon – Just a short train ride from Birmingham, this picturesque town is the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Visitors can explore Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and the charming riverside streets lined with shops and cafés. There are also opportunities to catch a performance by the Royal Shakespeare Company, making it perfect for literature and theatre enthusiasts.

Black Country Living Museum – Located a short drive or bus journey from Birmingham, this open-air museum immerses visitors in the region’s industrial heritage. You can wander reconstructed streets, ride on vintage trams, and see traditional workshops in action. It’s a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century life in the Midlands, ideal for history buffs or anyone interested in seeing how industrial Britain shaped modern life.

Cadbury World – A fun and indulgent option, Cadbury World in Bournville is a must for chocolate lovers of all ages. Guests can learn about the history of chocolate-making, explore interactive exhibits, and enjoy plenty of tasting opportunities.

Itinerary Benefits

✔ Gentle pacing after overnight travel
✔ Strong food culture
✔ Walkable, canal-side scenery
✔ Proper pubs & whisky
✔ No need for a car