We have some train connections in Wales that are only 10-15 minutes apart; can we usually count on making those OK? Also, are advance seat reservations advisable for weekend trains, and do you get to actually pick seats like on airlines or do you just get what the computer gives you?
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
The following page has helpful information: http://tinyurl.com/4248xu.
Posted by
Nottingham, UK
658 posts
Definitely reserve a seat. It doesn't matter if the computer picks your seat - just get a seat. Travelling on UK trains does not guarantee you will get a seat, far from it. The rail companies think it is perfectly acceptable to stand all the way between London and Nottingham and charge you a King's ransom for the privilige ( no I'm not joking ).
A connection time of 10 minute SHOULD be quite adequate, however, nobody who uses UK trains on a regular basis would give you a better than 50/50 chance.
If you do miss your connection due to a late arrival the normal procedure is to approach the nearest uniformed member of staff and ask them to validate your tickets for the next train.
If you want to study UK train timetables you can go to any UK public library, walk past the section for Fiction, walk past the section called Fantasy, go sraight to the section marked Total and Utter Delusional Fantasy/Fiction/Comedy - they are on those shelves.
Posted by
near NY, NJ, USA
445 posts
I heartily agree with Al!!! Last summer, I had one train cancelled completely and several others with severe delays!! Overcrowding and standing are frequent occurrences. On top of that, I think the fares outrageous and it is not just the dollar, my English friends think the same. Despite that, I use the trains!!!! Just be flexible.