Britain’s long-distance rail network is entering a new era as CrossCountry reveals the first fully refurbished Voyager train, the result of a £75 million modernisation programme designed to transform comfort, connectivity and on-board experience. After more than two decades in service, the Voyager fleet — a backbone of inter-city travel across England, Scotland and Wales — is undergoing a complete interior overhaul that will redefine what passengers can expect from long-distance rail in the UK.
The upgrade, being delivered by rolling stock manufacturer Alstom, marks the most substantial refurbishment in the fleet’s history. With 70 trains scheduled for full interior transformation by early 2028, CrossCountry aims to elevate standards not only for daily commuters but also for leisure travellers seeking comfort, practicality and modern design.
A Comprehensive Makeover for Britain’s Voyagers
The refurbishment goes far beyond superficial improvements. Every carriage is being reworked from floor to ceiling, including seating, flooring, lighting, toilets, storage, safety systems and digital information displays. The ambition is twofold: align the fleet with modern expectations and extend its operational life for years to come.
Unlike previous refreshes that focused on upholstery or cosmetic adjustments, this programme introduces transformative changes shaped by extensive passenger feedback. Many long-standing concerns — tight legroom, limited power outlets, dated lighting and cramped storage — are being tackled in a methodical, future-proof way.
New Seating, Better Legroom and More Practical Storage
One of the most impactful upgrades comes in the form of completely new seat frames. Instead of retrimming old structures, CrossCountry has opted for redesigned seating that enhances comfort, durability and ergonomics. In Standard Class, legroom has been improved to better support passengers on long journeys across the country, from the South West to Scotland.
A redesigned under-seat area provides more usable storage space for backpacks, small suitcases and personal items. This helps reduce clutter in aisles and gives passengers more control over where to place belongings — a welcome improvement for those boarding busy services.
The new seating layout maintains overall capacity but fundamentally improves comfort levels, making the interior feel less cramped and more functional.
Power at Every Seat and Smarter Workspaces
Long-distance travellers often rely on trains as mobile workspaces. Previously, power access on Voyagers was inconsistent and often unavailable in certain seating areas. The refurbishment solves this issue definitively: every seat now includes a three-pin socket, along with USB-A and USB-C charging ports.
This universal power provision brings the Voyager fleet in line with expectations for a modern inter-city service, supporting passengers who work remotely, stream media or rely on devices for travel planning.
Upgraded tables complement this improvement by offering sturdier, more user-friendly surfaces. In First Class, larger worktables align with the 2+1 seating layout, while in Standard Class, improved table designs enhance usability for both solo travellers and groups.
A Brighter, More Contemporary Passenger Environment
A complete visual transformation accompanies the functional upgrades. New carpets, refreshed interior finishes and modernised colour schemes contribute to a cleaner and more appealing environment. LED lighting replaces older fixtures, brightening saloons, vestibules and toilets while reducing energy consumption.
Previous interiors were often described as dark and dated; the refreshed design introduces a more open, inviting atmosphere that aligns with contemporary expectations of rail comfort. Alongside new artwork and redesigned panel finishes, the refurbished Voyagers appear noticeably sharper and more welcoming.
Toilets — a long-criticised aspect of the fleet — have received substantial upgrades, including new fittings, surfaces and lighting. These changes deliver a fresher, more hygienic experience, particularly important on long-distance journeys.
Enhanced Safety and Smarter Data Systems
The refurbishment also includes advancements in safety and operational technology. Upgraded CCTV provides clearer coverage throughout the train, while newly added forward-facing cameras support incident analysis and operational monitoring.
Automatic passenger counters are being fitted to collect real-time occupancy data. This will help the operator better understand passenger patterns, manage capacity and plan future service improvements. As crowding has been a frequent issue on busy routes, these insights could influence long-term service planning and rolling stock deployment.
The project also emphasises sustainability, with a commitment to recycling removed materials and ensuring no waste goes to landfill — aligning the upgrade with broader environmental goals within the rail sector.
First Class: Subtle Enhancements with a Premium Feel
While the overall layout of First Class remains unchanged, passengers will notice significant upgrades in comfort, lighting and functionality. New seating with improved under-seat storage, universal power outlets and refreshed décor make the space brighter and more premium without altering the familiar 2+1 configuration.
The result is a more refined version of the existing First Class environment — an uplift rather than a redesign.
A Two-Year Rollout Bringing Modernisation Nationwide
All 70 Voyager trains — including 136 Class 220 and 176 Class 221 vehicles — are scheduled for refurbishment at Alstom’s Derby facility. The rollout began in early 2026, with completion targeted for early 2028. As more trains return to service, passengers on major routes such as Birmingham–Newcastle, Birmingham–Manchester, Reading–Bournemouth and cross-country corridors to Scotland and the South West will gradually experience the new interior standards.
Importantly, fare structures and booking processes remain unchanged. Passengers will pay the same prices they always have, meaning the modernised interiors represent added value rather than a premium offering.
Passenger Reactions: A Welcome Leap Forward
Early feedback highlights the improved brightness, enhanced comfort, reliable charging facilities and more contemporary feel of the refurbished trains. Many describe the transformation as making the Voyagers feel “almost new again,” especially after more than 20 years of intensive service.
While some note that seats remain firm compared to other modern fleets, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, recognising the refurbishment as a long-overdue but highly successful update.
A New Chapter for Britain’s Long-Distance Rail
With its extensive refurbishment programme, CrossCountry is signalling a renewed commitment to the comfort and expectations of long-distance travellers. The modernised Voyager fleet represents a significant step toward a more reliable, connected and enjoyable rail experience across Britain — one that reflects both today’s passenger needs and tomorrow’s travel demands.
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