Hi all, can anyone suggest any splits etc for this journey, probably weekend to weekend? I have a Network card and have been looking at London Midland only Euston towards Derby. Failing that, if I pay out for an open return, are there any off beat routes I can take? I've done the EC/MML to death...
Welcome to the forum.
For a long distance journey via London, if you want a 'walk-up' ticket that does not tie you to a specific train (I'll avoid the term "open" as that term can have different meanings), then unless you are happy to take (much) slower routes, it's generally best
not to split.
If you wish to use LM, you could split at London & Sheffield, making use of the LM & XC Super Off Peak Return from London to Sheffield (change at Tamworth or Birmingham).
If you are happy to be tied to specific trains, you may be best with a EC & Connections through ticket. The cheapest fares will have gone many weeks ago though, and the lowest tiers are not available south of King's Cross, nor are Hull Trains & Connections (but Southern do cheap Advance fares from Brighton to Victoria).
If you buy a through ticket, such as the Super Off Peak Return, you may take any permitted route, which would allow you to travel out of Liverpool Street, via Cambridge, if you want something "off beat". You could even go via Lincoln, but if you want to cover that track, I'd wait until the next EC diversions personally!