Wednesday 5 June 2013

Ask Mary:: Should I take the train from London to Scotland?


I get so many emails every week asking questions about moving to Scotland as well as generic questions as to what should they do on their visit here. I'm starting an Ask Mary feature where I'll share the questions and answers for all to see and chime in. 

If there is something you want to know about living in Scotland go ahead and ask in the comments section and I'll answer them right here on the blog. 
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Amie asked::

How long is the train from London to Scotland? Where do I go for train information?

It takes around 7 hours to drive to London and 45 min to fly. But, to take the train it takes approximately 5 hrs.

The train is a great way to travel. You can sit back and relax while someone else does the driving. No need to stop for the bathroom or something to eat as everything you could need is right there. Grab yourself a seat by the window and don't forget a book. You can even choose to travel on a sleeper train. Travel while you sleep! Brilliant.

The downside to taking the train is that it can be quite pricey for long a journey. You'll be surprised to find that you can take a flight for much cheaper. But, it is always good to check all your options and be prepared. Booking early is the key to finding the right price, whatever you choose to do.

The links below will help you plan::

TRAIN

www.thetrainline.com

www.virgintrains.co.uk

www.nationalrail.co.uk

www.scotrail.co.uk

BUDGET AIRLINES

www.ryanair.com

www.easyjet.com

www.flybe.com

*make sure to check the terms and conditions. Budget travel is an art!

BUS

www.megabus.com

www.nationalexpress.com

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Have any of you taken the train from London to Scotland? Let us know your tips and tricks in the comments section.

If you have any questions just ask below or send me an email!

11 comments:

  1. Aww, I made the blog! Thanks for all your help last week!!!

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    1. When are you coming in Amie? Let me know what your plans are and if there is time I'd love to meet up!

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    2. We'll be there August 6-9. My sister's wedding is the 8th! I'm traveling with my parents, so I'm not sure how much free time I'll have. I will definitely email you if I think scheduling will work out!

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  2. when we lived in edinburgh and wanted to visit london, we find airline tickets a lot cheaper than the train. i never would have thought!

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    1. I know! It's crazy isn't it?! The train is an awesome experience though. Especially if you are coming from America where it is a total novelty. Everyone should take the train at least once if they are coming to visit the UK. Give yourself a taste of the culture.

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  3. I've taken the train from London up North all the time. I'd add that if you're under 26 and in England for at least a few weeks you can get a railcard and get a third off prices. Also I've gotten a train (round trip) for that journey for about 15 pounds...but I had to book it a little over a month in advance.

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  4. I live in Edinburgh - I've taken the sleeper to London and wouldn't recommend it unless you can get a berth. We just had regular seats and it was the worst experience of my life - a light flickered all night, a lady sat listening to loud music on headphones, the seats didn't recline. There was nothing sleepy about it! It's also much slower than the daytime trains.

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  5. I've heard from a friend living in Ireland that most homes for rent include basic furniture. Is that true in Scotland? What things are typical to have on hand?

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  6. I have taken the bus from Glasgow to London, doing it again Sunday. 10 years ago we paid £20 round trip and this time the prices were £10-45 one way. The higher prices were for sleeper busses. I paid £12.50 one way. I have flown the same route a few times (very short flight), but I chose the bus because it is more convenient to get to my friend's house using public transportation. It's comfortable, very accessible and way cheaper than the train, which I also considered. If price isn't an issue, the Virgin train looks super cool and it's faster than the bus. Train travel in Europe is a novelty for many of us Americans.

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    1. Also, time wasn't an issue for me this trip. When I have limited time, I fly.

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