Recent content by SouthernCrescent

The Scotrail 158's have had improved a/c fitted and they still run around with the little windows open to try and get a bit of air in. I took one out of Edinburgh last summer - hot and crowded - never again. Having said this I was on a c170 recently and there was no fresh air in one end of the...

I'm not sure there is much I can add here. I find it pretty anoying also. As was already mentioned it is resonable to assume that peak times will be more expensive and that very discounted tickets with lots of restrictions might be available at very quiet times. However the Government...

Its been a few years since I've been there but I think there are a few pubs and cafes where you can get something to eat. There are also a few hotels that will do drinks. I think the journey shouldn't be missed, its really scenic between Fort William and Mallaig. The other thing you might...

There was once I was on board and the Inverness section was behind the Fort William with the Aberdeen at the back so it might change, but yes its a bit of a walk from the Fort William coaches to whatever lounge you are using. It is possible for standard class passengers to also use the lounge...

I was just reading an old Railway Magazine this morning which had an article which mentioned the Stranraer to London sleeper service along with two per night (!) from Aberdeen and Inverness to London. One on each route went via Birmingham and the other direct as it does today. What a shame we...

The yellow front ends can look good on some traction if applied tastefully, but it would be nice to have the option where it doesn't suit. I can't think of any other country with this rule. But what really gets me is the different coloured doors on rolling stock, it just ruined the GNER livery...

I couldn't agree more, how about that great motivator of the 1980's, Mr T as travelling encourager to the 'crazy fools' to get the feet of the seats ...might work

The National Railway Museum has a research and archives section that may be able to help: http://www.nrm.org.uk/research/index.asp

I'm just back from a train journey yesterday (Scotrail and Virgin) and this was something I was thinking off myself. I think Scotrail under First are doing a great job overall, and much improved on the National Express days. The main problem as others have rightly pointed out is society -...

Its not often that I get excited about a new livery but that is wonderful, just love it. I hope it stays for a long time to come because this is one that I'd actually miss if it disapeared. I think it may be safe to say that it's been inspired by the Southern Pacific 'Daylight' livery. Do a...

NXEC have introduced a new at seat menu in first class. Some services still have the restaurant but the at seat menu is much more affordable and the food seems to be pretty good. I have tried it once so far. The only problem is that you have to be in first class to get it! I read in the NXEC...

I would imagine so but there is nothing in the plans that I've heard of. The only thing I did hear was that the first Turbostars purchased by Scotrail are starting to be refurbished so I'd imagine in some years time it will happen. I can't imagine the buffet staying when it does.

The NXEC service south from Inverness has the benfit of being and HST but also because its a once a day train with a regular crew I think the customer service and standards are a bit higher than on other NXEC trains. The 170's are not bad either. When the ex Hull Trains sets were introduced...

Mark 3's even beat Mk 4s with more luggage space and two toilets per coach. As for the Voyager there is no contest! I think the Mk 3 is as good as it will ever get.

I can't remember how long it took last time (NX to First take over) but I seem to remember it being well over a year of mixed liveried sets going out. This time I understand it will only be as vehicles require a repaint so even longer?