We are an "older" couple who have traveled with RS many times, but not so often in recent years. Considering taking the England my way tour in 2027 and would like to spend a day or two via separate tour in N. Wales and then make way to Bath for an RS tour. Can anyone offer advice on 1) Mountain Goat or other tours from Chester or Liverpool etc. to N Wales and 2) getting from Chester to Bath by hire car? Luggage management can be uncomfortable for us on trains and busses if numerous changes etc. so prefer a simpler more direct approach. Thanks very much.
Posted by
OP
4 posts
Thank you for the info on Newport train transfer point. Would like to avoid trains as bag handling is an issue for us as we age. So any recommendations on hiring a driver in either Chester or Newport are appreciated. I know this makes things more expensive and difficult, but aging takes its toll. Does RS consider adding a stop or two in Wales on any tours?
Posted by
Arctophilia (x-27), Northamptonshire, England
37202 posts
I completely understand the question, and as an older couple including a disabled wife I understand about the luggage bit.
Are you aware that there is something called Passenger Assist on the British railway network who can give - free - assistance boarding and leaving trains for those who need?
Also I see that you are talking about a car and driver - the term hire car in the UK means the same as a rental car in the US. This may cause confusion with us natives.
Posted by
OP
4 posts
Thanks very much. Enjoyed the video. Not really planning to spend time in Chester, maybe just an overnight and/or pick up point. Other options are Liverpool and even Manchester for that. Not sure what plan is right now. Trip is still pending for now.
Posted by
London and Chester
522 posts
If you want to do a tour in North Wales starting from Chester rather than Liverpool makes more sense.
If you use the passenger assistance service on the train the journey should be reasonably straightforward. They can help you and your luggage on and off trains and when travelling around the station including when changing trains.
When I travelled on trains I used them a lot. The staff at Chester are particularly nice.
The only station I had problems, on more than one occasion, was Crewe so I would avoid changing there if you can. It’s a very busy station and (most of) the staff do their best but sometimes they are over stretched and it doesn’t go to plan.
Posted by
2985 posts
I have driven the roads that you would use between Chester & Bath and I would not advise it - unless you wanted to go wandering off seeing places and not do it in 1 day.
The easiest way is direct train from Chester to Newport - the scenery is very pleasant on this route. Change at Newport for train to *Bath. The change at Newport involves just walking across a platform on the flat so is really easy. British platforms are also relatively high do you don't have loads of steps into the trains.
- Some journey planners tell you to change at Bristol (Temple Meads) as well. This can be quicker but if you hang around longer at Newport (maybe 40 minutes) - you will be able to pick up a direct train to Bath.
Also consider direct train from Chester to Cardiff for a stay. Direct trains go from Cardiff to Bath hourly and the journey is just over 1 hour. Most of Cardiff city centre is traffic free and flat.
Posted by
OP
4 posts
Thank you. I would not drive in UK at my age. The options you present are very welcome and noted. We are also looking at the RS tour 14 days in UK which does take in Wales locations, but it is not a my way tour so may be challenging for us. We have taken 12 RS tours so we know the routines etc. and some can be demanding. All decisions we need to make hopefully soon. Thanks again.