I am having difficulty buying train tickets online from Bath to London. The National Rail site won't sell tickets to customers outside of the UK. Does anyone have any other suggestions??
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
Go to www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk. When you register on the site, enter a UK postal code (use one from any Bath or London hotel). Then when it comes time to book, change the address to match the one associated with the credit card you're using. Book 30-60 days in advance to get the cheapest fares.
Posted by
OP
Jackson Heights, NY
4 posts
I tried that method, but when entering the new billing address I still needed to enter a UK postal code. I am doing something wrong??
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
Did you choose to pick up your ticket at a FastTicket machine? If that didn't work, you can call the train company and book over the phone.
Posted by
Ottawa, Canada
4555 posts
When you input the hotel's postal code, it calls up the address as your home address. You should be able to change to your address in the U-S by changing the information in "my account."
Posted by
OP
Jackson Heights, NY
4 posts
I requested Fast Track, but still cannot change my billing address to a non-UK address. I had set it up with my hotel's address first. Will try to call. Thanks for the help.
Posted by
Hendersonvlle, NC
486 posts
On a previous trip to the UK, I had to call. But be sure you have the ticket price first. If the agent quotes you a lower fare, it is probably due to some special or whatever. If he quotes you a higher one, then tell him exactly the trains, dates and price from the web site (just before you call) to make sure you get the best fare. They quoted me a higher price but when I pointed out the web site information, he apologized for missing that price. I believe he truly just made a mistake but was thankful I knew what he should have told me. The agents are always very nice particularly if you act especially friendly. I told him, I was calling from his former American colonies and he laughed. He was more than amenable to my special requests.
Posted by
OP
Jackson Heights, NY
4 posts
Thanks for the tidbit
Posted by
Boscombe, Dorset, UK
964 posts
If you're not set on travelling by train. take the bus- National Express. The buses in the UK are inexpensive and clean, and a popular way to travel.
If the rail company you have to use is Great Western, then you might like to check the UK news to read how much bad press they are getting at the moment for lousy service!