Scotrail HST

[hypercolius]

I intentionally booked services I knew would be operated by HSTs when visiting the Cairngorms for a few days.
I was really relieved that both of them, 15:07 Glasgow-Inverness (Friday) and 09:28 Aviemore-Glasgow (Monday), were both HSTs rather than 158s or that horrific mess that is the Class 170, and to ride on them before they're completely withdrawn from passenger service in the UK to be replaced by the class 222 or the Japanese garbage.
The ride quality was extremely good, the seats were extremely comfortable (better than an Avanti Standard Premium seat!) and everything about the train was excellent except for the small tray tables. There is not a single complaint I can make about those trains, and they easily surpass anything I've ridden on in the UK, which has included an Intercity 225 in first class. Even that doesn't compare.
Whilst waiting for the 09:28, the LNER Highland Chieftain passed by, and I was thankful I didn't board. 7 hours on those awful seats and I'd have ruined my legs for sure.

 

[David M]

Don't understand why you're so scathing about the 170s to be honest.

 

[Bletchleyite]

Don't understand why you're so scathing about the 170s to be honest.

The 170s are great for scenic lines like these. Massive windows, fully aligned seats and comfortable seating. They're just a couple of coaches too short and have useless overhead racks. Prefer them over the HSTs to be honest.

 

[hexagon789]

Don't understand why you're so scathing about the 170s to be honest.

The 170s are great for scenic lines like these. Massive windows, fully aligned seats and comfortable seating. They're just a couple of coaches too short and have useless overhead racks. Prefer them over the HSTs to be honest.

They also don't fail as often!

 

[sh24]

The 170s are great for scenic lines like these. Massive windows, fully aligned seats and comfortable seating. They're just a couple of coaches too short and have useless overhead racks. Prefer them over the HSTs to be honest.

Agree, the 170's are very good trains (apart from some where the legroom is a bit tight). Nicer that 158/159 IME.

Not a fan of the FGW standard class refurb that the Scotrail HST's have. Doesn't feel great, tables useless, sterile feeling plus the usual squeaking corridor connections. First is very pleasant however

 

[Bletchleyite]

Not a fan of the FGW standard class refurb that the Scotrail HST's have. Doesn't feel great, tables useless, sterile feeling plus the usual squeaking corridor connections. First is very pleasant however

I like the Standard seats but the atmosphere is harsh and unwelcoming with the stark lighting and blue colour scheme remaining from FGW days. And yes they're noisy (yes, I know you get engine hum on 170s) and feel old fashioned.