- The UK's longest direct train journey, the CrossCountry service from Aberdeen to Penzance, is being axed after over a century of service due to timetable changes from May 2025.
- The 774-mile route, which takes approximately 13 hours and 20 minutes with 35 stops, will run its last direct service on May 16, 2025, departing from Aberdeen at 8:20 am and arriving in Penzance at 9:31 pm.
- Simon Calder, travel correspondent for The Independent, notes that while the curtailment is "a touch sad," the number of passengers traveling the entire route was minimal, and the changes may improve service on the core CrossCountry routes.
- The service will be shortened to an 11-hour and 30-minute journey from Aberdeen to Plymouth, with connecting trains to Penzance, and CrossCountry claims the changes will create a more efficient timetable and convenient service for many customers.
- With the discontinuation of the Aberdeen to Penzance route, the Caledonian Sleeper's overnight train from London Euston to Fort William will become the UK's longest direct train service, lasting approximately 12 hours and 45 minutes.
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