En-suite cabins and meals cooked by chefs: The UK train firms with the BEST first-class options - and the disappointing choices that aren't worth the money

A slice of cake, a glass of something chilled and a spacious seat away from the crowds – first class on a train can be a rather civilised way to travel.

But while some services serve up restaurant-quality meals and luxurious surroundings, others offer little more than a slightly bigger seat for a hefty extra fee.

This week, councillors across the UK called for first-class tickets to be scrapped during rush hour to ease overcrowding – with passengers in standard classes are often forced to stand even though there are empty seats available in first class, according to BBC News.   

So the debate over whether the upgrade is worth the money is back on track.

Which train operators deliver a genuinely first-class experience – and which leave passengers wishing they’d saved their cash?

The best 

LOUNGE WITH LNER

At the top of the list is – perhaps unsurprisingly – LNER, London and North Eastern Railway, thanks largely to its lounges and food options.

This year, it reopened a new first class lounge at Leuchars station in Fife, offering complimentary refreshments. It also revamped its London King’s Cross lounge, adding greenery and additional seating.

In September, it launched new first class menus, featuring favourites such as the Full LNER and Full Veggie breakfasts, and new items including chicken Milanese served with cavatelli pasta and a golden almond and raspberry frangipane tart.

Coming soon are ten new state-of-the-art intercity trains, called 'Serenza'. Mood and table lighting in first class have been designed to provide customers with a more comfortable journey, especially when travelling during early mornings and evenings.

With an upgrade costing between £39 and £49 from standard class, is it worth it? We think so. 

ALL'S AMAZING WITH AVANTI WEST COAST 

Avanti West Coast also has a great premier experience, with dedicated staff serving complimentary food and drinks directly to you.

Bigger seats and extra legroom make for a more comfortable journey. 

Menu items include such delights as smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, beef stew and mini brioche sliders. 

Lounges provide complimentary snacks and access to dedicated lounge facilities such as comfortable seating, free WiFi, charging points and toilets. 

Upgrades to first class via the line's Seatfrog app can start from £47 depending on your journey.

CHARMING CALEDONIAN SLEEPER

Covering approximately 500 miles across 12 hours and 45 minutes, the Caledonian Sleeper now holds the title of the UK's longest direct rail route.

It departs from London Euston at 9.15pm six days a week (Sunday to Friday), travelling through Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Inverness during the night.

Accommodation options range from reclining seats costing around £50 to private compartments featuring beds, charging points, basins, or premium cabins with full en-suite facilities for £570.

The premier services provide priority dining and access to the train's Club Car, perfect for a late-night tipple on board the overnight train.

GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY'S TRULY GRAND

While not quite as lavish as the others, Great Western Railway still has a strong first class offering, with separate seating and food and drink on board.

The main draw? Access to the Pullman Dining service, one of Britain's best restaurant car experiences, where fresh meals are cooked by an onboard chef. 

Prices start from £40 for two courses and £49 for three courses. 

Options include king oyster bourguignon, fillet steak and a cheeseboard.

...what about the worst?

CROSSCOUNTRY'S AT THE BOTTOM

Earlier this year, CrossCountry was named the UK's worst train operator for cancellations in 2026, according to new analysis. 

The study showed that 6.8 per cent of CrossCountry services were either fully or partially cancelled – the highest proportion of any of the 23 operators analysed. 

Unfortunately, it's not the first time the railway line has taken this title – and its first class is nothing to write home about.

Available on long-distance Voyager trains, this class provides free snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as extra legroom. 

But with no lounges, it's not as premium as some of the UK's top picks.

THAMESLINK? TRY AGAIN

Many commuter trains lack the wow factor of first class carriages on board other lines.

Thameslink – alongside Southern and c2c – is one of the worst.

There is a first class carriage, with tables and extra legroom, but there's no food or drink service, or lounge access. You're paying purely for the seat.