LNER Azuma

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LNER Azuma

Train Reviews

LNER Azuma

LNER Azuma Reviews & Ratings: Is It the Right Train for You?

Operating on the historic East Coast Main Line, the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) Azuma fleet represents the modern pinnacle of UK intercity travel. Built by Hitachi, these sleek, bi-mode (electric and diesel) trains dart between London King’s Cross, Yorkshire, North East England, and Scotland at speeds up to 125 mph.

For travelers in 2026, the Azuma is the fastest, greenest way to travel between the English and Scottish capitals. While much of the debate online centers around the firmness of the seats, the train’s technology, reliability, and First Class dining options make it a formidable alternative to domestic flying.

LNER Azuma at a Glance

  • Operator: London North Eastern Railway (LNER)
  • Major Routes: London King’s Cross to York, Newcastle, and Edinburgh
  • Top Speed: 125 mph (200 km/h)
  • Best For: Fast city-center-to-city-center transit, business travelers, and eco-conscious long-distance trips.
LNER Azuma

Onboard Experience: What to Expect

The Azuma trains boast a bright, modern interior with excellent natural light, though the seats are notoriously firm.

Standard Class

Standard Class offers airline-style seating and bays of four around tables. Every seat features a three-pin plug socket, USB ports, and free Wi-Fi. While the seats are slim and firm by design, legroom is generally adequate. Passengers can use the “Let’s Eat at Your Seat” QR code service to order hot food, sandwiches, and drinks directly to their table via their smartphone, or visit the onboard cafe bar.

First Class

A major upgrade for a long journey. First Class features wider, deeply contoured seats in a 2-1 configuration, offering significantly more space and quieter carriages. The true selling point of LNER First Class is the complimentary catering. Depending on the time of day and length of your journey, passengers receive a hot breakfast, a two-course lunch, or a hot dinner, served alongside complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Luggage Allowance & Policies (Updated 2026)

Major 2026 Warning: LNER strictly enforces standard National Rail luggage limits. Do not bring more than you can carry yourself.

Luggage Size / Type Policy Cost
Carry-on / Cabin Bags Can be stored in the overhead racks above your seat. Free
Checked / Large Luggage Up to 3 large items per passenger. Store in the dedicated racks near the carriage doors. Free
Bicycles Strictly limited spaces. Must be reserved in advance. Free (Reservation Required)

Tip: The luggage racks near the doors fill up incredibly quickly on the London to Edinburgh route. Board the train as early as possible at King’s Cross to secure a spot for a large suitcase.

Customer Service & Reliability

  • The Highs: LNER’s customer service, both on board and via social media, is highly rated. The First Class complimentary dining is considered some of the best scheduled rail catering in the UK.
  • The Lows: The “ironing board” seats in Standard Class are frequently criticized for being too hard on journeys lasting over three hours. Wi-Fi can occasionally struggle when the train is at full capacity.

Pros & Cons of Traveling on the LNER Azuma

Pros:

  • Extremely fast transit times (London to Edinburgh in approx. 4 hours 20 mins).
  • Excellent at-seat food ordering technology in Standard Class.
  • Generous and high-quality complimentary food/drink in First Class.

Cons:

  • Standard Class seats lack deep padding for long journeys.
  • Luggage racks can become chaotic on busy holiday weekends.
  • Fares can be very expensive if not booked in advance.

Have You Traveled on the LNER Azuma?

Your experience helps other travelers make informed decisions! Did you find the seats too firm, or did you love the First Class breakfast?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the LNER Azuma

Which side of the train is best for views?

If you are traveling northbound (from London to Edinburgh), try to secure a seat on the right side of the train. As you cross the border into Scotland past Newcastle, you will be treated to stunning, close-up views of the North Sea coastline and the dramatic cliffs at Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Do I get lounge access with a First Class ticket?

Yes. If you hold a valid First Class ticket (excluding some heavily discounted advanced promotional fares), you can access the LNER First Class Lounges at major stations like London King’s Cross, York, and Edinburgh Waverley for free drinks and snacks before you board.

Are the trains fully electric?

The Azuma fleet consists of bi-mode trains. They run on electricity from overhead wires for the vast majority of the East Coast Main Line, but can switch seamlessly to diesel power to reach destinations beyond the electrified network, like Inverness or Aberdeen.

Disclaimer: All information, policies, and details presented on this page are gathered from publicly available resources and are subject to change. Please verify directly with the operator before booking.