I've never traveled by coach in the UK except one trip to Stonehenge. Any advantages? I know if time is a factor, the train would be much faster, but haven't done any searched for fares...thought I'd ask here first! I know there is always good info from people that have traveled...TKS!
Posted by
near Ringwood, Hampshire, UK
521 posts
That is an interesting question. A coach will always take longer and be less comfortable (generally), so you would expect it to be a lot cheaper. That isn't necessarily so. Travelling a month today (Tuesday 25th June) you can get an Advance single on the 08.30 East Coast train service departing London Kings Cross station for £22.15, which will get you to York in 2 hours. On the same day the National Express coach departing Victoria coach station at 08.00 will cost £20.30 but it takes over 6 hours with a change at Leeds. The 09.30 is direct to York, takes 5 hours 15 minutes and costs £22.20. Use www.eastcoast.co.uk to research the train tickets. Groups get an automatic discount if there are 4 of you travelling. Note that 'Advance' tickets can only be used on the specific train they are purchased for, and cannot be refunded. Also, waiting until nearer the time usually means the tickets will cost more so booking early makes sense. Use http://www.nationalexpress.com for coaches.
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
Discount fares on the East Coast site are posted about 12 weeks in advance. They can be as low as £13.00 for a single 2nd class ticket. The automatic GroupSave discount (1/3 off) kicks in when as few as three people travel together. For example, for 14 August I found a total price of £28.95 for three people traveling together.
Posted by
OP
Raleigh
7 posts
Thanks! I did a search and found pretty much the same thing. I was surprised since I thought the coach would be much less expensive. Time is not a big factor but I do enjoy the rail travel. OK, I just enjoy the UK and it doesn't matter how I travel!!! TKS again.
Posted by
South Yorkshire, UK; formerly St. Louis, MO, USA
317 posts
Jane, One thing you'll discover with transit (coach, rail, air, or boat) in the UK is that mode of transport generally doesn't enter the equation. Prices will be what prices will be, and what matters is what you are comfortable with. For me, I'll take the train any time I can. The train from London to York is quick, easy, relaxing, and direct. York is wonderful, with lots to explore. Enjoy your trip!