Onboard
Classes of Accommodation
All trains have standard class accommodation with comfortable
seating appropriate to the length of journey. Short distance
commuter trains have higher density seating while longer
distance trains have more spacious seating with usually a mix of
airline style seats and groups of seats around tables. Many
services also have first class accommodations. This features
more space and comfort together with usually other benefits such
as complementary refreshments.
On overnight trains seating is usually of first class type for
greater comfort. Although these are sold as standard class so
there is no supplement to pay. Sleeper services also have the
option of taking a berth in a sleeping car. Standard class
sleeper cabins have two berths. If you are travelling alone you
may be sharing with someone else. Refreshments are served in the
cabin in the morning. First class cabins are single berth and
passengers have the use of a lounge car. UK trains do not have
showers as you are never more than one night on board. However
many stations have shower facilities for which a small charge is
made.
Catering Services
Most longer distance regional trains have a trolley service of hot
and cold drinks and snacks. Sandwiches and confectionery is sold
throughout the journey. These services are marked in the timetables
with a symbol. Intercity services still have a buffet car with a
more extensive range of drinks and food. You can even purchase light
meals. Many have high quality fresh food and the prices tend to be
reasonable. The busiest services have full dining service in
restaurant cars. The meals again are very good although quite
pricey.
Left Luggage
In recent years with security threats left luggage offices have
closed at many stations. This is a shame as an area to leave your
bags between trains or after checking out of your hotel can be a
real benefit. However many stations are now re introducing these
services. Where lockers are available bags will usually be searched.
In larger stations left luggage offices are contracted to private
companies who have staff on hand to check and store baggage.
Stations
Many stations are not staffed. At these stations you may buy your
ticket on the train at no extra charge. Where stations have ticket
offices or ticket machines you must purchase before boarding to take
advantage of the best prices. Otherwise you will be charged the full
single fare. At non staffed stations there are usually monitored
security cameras, good lighting and a telephone link to the local
control centre so you can contact rail staff and check how your
train is running.
Seat Reservations
Reserving your seat is always a good idea except for routine and
local journeys. Many commuter trains and local services may not have
reservations. However for longer journeys where they are available
it is best to do so. Timetables will give assistance by advising
where reservations are compulsory and where they are recommended.
Many tickets now offer free reservations as part of the ticket
price.
You can make a seat reservation as part of the booking process when
you book online. Otherwise let the booking agent know that you wish
them. To take advantage of seat reservations you will need to know
what trains you want to travel on (dates and times) and the number
of seats you require. You will also be given the option of airline
seats or around a table. Unless you state it is assumed you wish to
travel standard class. You can also usually specify whether you wish
to face the direction of travel. Although it should be noted that
occasionally trains will reverse their direction of travel during
the journey.
Weekend First
The weekends are off peak times for First Class travel and so many
rail companies have responded by offering weekend first tickets.
These are upgrades to standard class fares at much lower rates than
a normal first class tickets and allow passengers on standard class
tickets to enjoy the luxury of first class. These should be booked
at least a day in advance and include a free seat reservation. You
must travel in the coaches marked 'weekend first'. Alternatively if
space is available you can buy the upgrade from the train's Senior
Conductor. Companies offering this service are: Anglia Railways,
National Express East Coast, First Great Western, Hull Trains, Midland Mainline, ScotRail,
South West Trains *, Transpennine and Virgin Trains. All can
be booked on Saturdays. Sundays and Bank Holidays. * can only be
purchase at the time of travel.
Luggage
Passengers can take up to three items of personal luggage free of
charge. This includes two items of large luggage (such as a
suitcase) and one smaller item. Excess luggage and larger items
(such as skis) may be carried subject to available space at an extra
charge. Many trains (even long distance) no longer have luggage cars
but space is available inside the coaches. The main exceptions to
this rule are most of the Intercity operators and sleepers. Gatwick
Express has ample luggage space for all items including bulky items
which may be carried free of charge. Look for the luggage coach at
the end of the train.
The only form of checked baggage is presently on board the Eurostar
services were extra baggage may be checked in and claimed up to 24
hours after arrival at the destination station. Prices start
from £12 for a case.
If you are traveling and have more luggage than you
can comfortably carry another option is to use the Carry my Luggage
service. They collect from your house and deliver to your
destination. Further information can be found on their website
at:
Carry My Luggage
