A rare opportunity is being offered to travel aboard the iconic Midland Pullman during a landmark test run between Crewe and London Euston on Wednesday, 4 March 2026.
The special journey will mark the first time the High Speed Train (HST) operates at 125mph on a non-stop run along this route.
The return leg from Crewe to London Euston will form part of an official test programme assessing the potential for sustained 125mph line speeds for HST services.
Travelling on the West Coast Main Line, the train will pass via Stafford, Rugby and Milton Keynes before arriving in London Euston at 12:55.
Following a scheduled departure at 14:05, the service will complete its return journey to Crewe as part of this significant operational evaluation.
The test represents an important step toward potential line speed enhancements for HST operations, while offering passengers the chance to experience high-speed main line running in a unique and historic setting.
First class seating is available (non-dining) at tables of 2 or 4, starting at £179pp. A limited selection of private window seating for two is available at a supplement of £20pp.
Responses
Where can I purchase tickets for this Pullman non stop run
Is 125mph actually allowed for non-tilting trains on WCML? Won’t it be a bit uncomfortable?
Did Euston Crewe many times on the Holyhead HSTs running as fast as the Pendolinos (mostly). I suspect that the main problem is the Victoria curve south of Stafford. That would need to be slower
Wait it’s never gone 125 before?
Presumably, yes it has, many times as they worked the Holyheads, but not on a non-stop run.
Shouldn’t have any trouble achieving that speed.i was on its first tour on the mainline achieved 122 mph between Luton and Bedford