GWR First class carnet ticket - suggestions for when and where to use it

[andypops]

Hello,

I recently received a return carnet ticket (two separate ones), valid for first class travel anywhere on the GWR network. And I’m not sure when or where to use them.

I live in South Wales so would likely begin a journey in Cardiff or Newport. I would like to travel with my wife - so will need to purchase appropriate first class tickets for her too and don’t want to break the bank, but I would like to get my money’s worth!

I would like to ensure that we travel together, so if purchasing an advance for her would I be able to book a reservation next to her seat when arranging the advance?

Are there any good journeys that people can suggest, pleasant conditions or good first class perks? Currently I’m probably considering a day trip to London, a weekend to London (Friday late or Saturday early until Subday afternoon), or the same to possibly Cornwall somewhere.

Any suggestions would be very gratefully received.

 

[route:oxford]

I'm guessing you've got two single tickets.

In which case I'd suggest that you plan ahead and purchase a pair of heavily discounted First Advance tickets in one direction and use the pair of carnet tickets in the other.

 

[Clip]

I'm guessing you've got two single tickets.

In which case I'd suggest that you plan ahead and purchase a pair of heavily discounted First Advance tickets in one direction and use the pair of carnet tickets in the other.

This sounds sensible and also look into if a 2 together railcard will pay for itself by doing it this way too

 

[Hadders]

If travelling at W weekend then a standard class and weekend first upgrade might be cheaper.

 

[andypops]

This sounds sensible and also look into if a 2 together railcard will pay for itself by doing it this way too

Thanks - it is two singles, but the terms on the ticket do say however it’s only valid for use by the named person (me).

Interesting side point - would a two together ticket discount be valid if just partner bought a ticket using it, and I used these? Just a thought!

 

[andypops]

I'm guessing you've got two single tickets.

In which case I'd suggest that you plan ahead and purchase a pair of heavily discounted First Advance tickets in one direction and use the pair of carnet tickets in the other.

How far in advance can one book tickets?

 

[route:oxford]

How far in advance can one book tickets?

Generally, it's 3 months.