Recent content by manxqueenies

I have just arrived at EUS and on arrival the Virgin guard gave a significant (as in long) announcement advising that network rail has put a 90mph restriction on lines tomorrow- no idea about truth in this but customers directed to get reservations for tomorrow due to crowding on less trains-...

Well nearly in London and not to bad a sleep. I ordered the much maligned highland breakfast. Not the one to get excited about - served in cardboard, plastic cutlery could get through the softer elements only. Such a shame, its almost 12 months since I was last on this service when breakfast was...

Lounge car of picnics- yes turns out morrisons open and I have a decent spread.... not quite fine hotel experience- but damned good bottle of wine for a tenner, proper wine glass 60p and lots of nibbles. Not what was expected - just hope Pullman doesn't let me down tomorrow !

Fort William to Eus tonight- been looking forward for ages as part of ALR trip. Thought about changing to Glasgow due to old carriages- but a sucker for the scenery. Arrived Fort William this afternoon- it's the really old blue carriages, but scenery Brill, especially from the lounge. Now text...

I would love the opportunity to use a britrail pass. As a resident of the Isle of Man when I've contacted britrail they believe the island is part of the UK and I'm not eligible. However the Isle of Man is not part of the uk, or Europe come to that, is a self governed British dependent island...

Appreciate a little back to the posts of a few weeks ago. Finally travelled on sleeper in new guise and share thoughts. Staff are the same as scotrail, just with better uniforms. Travel pack less but more than adequate. Dinner in lounge - just wanted chese and bits - ran out as 3 served - soup...

The recent Q&A is decidedly vague re catering offering, particularly first class post the transition. Have I missed the communication or is there an indication of what the complimentary first class service will be post transition to Virgin? Whilst only a once/twice a year ALR traveller - I have...

I felt like being cheeky and test the Virgin policy and try out BHM lounge - ALR had run out so booked a 1st class virgin anytime BHM to Birmingham international single, less than a pound more than cheapest ticket. For this I got a sour faced but accepting welcome at BHM - free internet and...

I have recently concluded a week on first class ALR with a few add on trips and tried the old and new menus, I have tried to upload photos but only seem to be able to get one uploaded - that said I have to say the on the whole I was very impressed with the East Coast service. Ok the food was not...

I did manage to purchase an ALR today, in advance at Inverness station. Very helpful chap, knew exactly what he was doing. Must have been a case of operator error last afternoon. Thanks for all your input.

Thanks - having a bit of a sweat there - appreciate quick reply

I'm seeking help as I'm about to start on a one week ALR and gotten caught out at first hurdle. I have flown into Inverness and have a ticket booked in advance for tomorrow to get an extra day - I will by end of tomorrow be in doncaster ready to start Thursday on the 615 to Edinburgh...

Many thanks both - I'll take your advice.

I am hoping that you can help me - I am staying at Gatwick Airport for a few days next weekend and would like to visit London Saturday and Monday. I normally have no problem with the NR website but it has got the better of me this time with confusing FCC only, Southern only combinations, and...

I did an ALR last autumn and like a previous poster was reluctant to use the ticket in barriers due to cost and malfunction possibilities. I tried in a couple and ticket never worked - but no issue as all stations waved me through with the exception of Leeds - went through Leeds 3 times and very...