Chiltern Railways has reintroduced first-class seating on its services for the first time in more than ten years. The upgraded carriages feature spacious seats and improved connectivity, aimed at both business and leisure travellers. The first of 13 new trains, named 'Chiltern Explorers', began operating this week, with all new trains expected to be in service by December 2026.
The reintroduction comes as Chiltern adds 10,000 extra seats daily across all classes. However, unlike first-class offerings on LNER and Avanti West Coast, Chiltern's premium service will not include complimentary food or drink. A spokesperson for Chiltern Railways stated that the market does not currently warrant a full catered offering, but there is demand for greater product differentiation, particularly in the leisure market.
Not all experts support the move. Rail historian Christian Wolmar described first-class as 'an outdated concept from the days of bowler-hatted gentlemen in their first-class compartment while their secretaries sat in second.' He argued that few people would want to pay a premium for such services on commuter routes.
Chiltern Railways, which connects London to Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire and the West Midlands, has faced criticism from passengers over overcrowding and ageing carriages. Some trains still feature carriages dating back to the 1970s, which will be replaced by newer models. Social media and review platforms have highlighted frequent overcrowding, with one passenger noting they often have to stand for an hour and a half despite paying nearly £40.
Richard Allan, managing director of Chiltern Railways, said he was thrilled to deliver a much better experience for customers. The new trains will enable services every 30 minutes between London and the West Midlands, along with extra weekend services. According to 2024 Department for Transport data, Chiltern operates the second busiest train route in England and Wales: the 7.46am service from Princes Risborough to London Marylebone.
