Caledonian Sleeper - 1st Class

[KingBruss]

I'm looking to purchase first class sleeper tickets for my mum for Euston-Aberdeen on 11th July, returning the following night. At age 58 she doesn't qualify for any railcards, and does not wish to share a cabin, hence first class.

Due to the nature of her visit to Aberdeen, she is not able to take day trains, and is not flexible with dates. Flying is not a viable option either.

Is there any cheaper option than buying two £164.70 singles, £329.40 return?

 

[Urban Gateline]

I'm looking to purchase first class sleeper tickets for my mum for Euston-Aberdeen on 11th July, returning the following night. At age 58 she doesn't qualify for any railcards, and does not wish to share a cabin, hence first class.

Due to the nature of her visit to Aberdeen, she is not able to take day trains, and is not flexible with dates. Flying is not a viable option either.

Is there any cheaper option than buying two £164.70 singles, £329.40 return?

That seems the cheapest unfortunately for First class, from looking at BR Fares it seems that there are no First Class Advance fares for that Journey anyway!

 

[Hadders]

You could purchase a standard class super off peak return for £147 and pay a solo berth supplement of £59.40 each way. This saves £63.60 over the first class fares.

IIRC the only difference between a solo occupied standard berth and a 1st class one is that in standard the top bunk is left folded down. I think you also get a bacon roll in 1st as opposed to a packet of shortbread in standard.

 

[hairyhandedfool]

If the only reason for first class is a single cabin, why not ask for solo occupancy of a double cabin.

 

[KingBruss]

Thanks for your help so far.

Can anyone direct me to a web page with the supplements? Scotrail say they're online but I haven't found them, and it's taking a while to get through to their call centre.

 

[Hadders]

Go through their normal booking screen. Make sure you click on the £147 fare and select the sleeper services from the list of trains. Click 'Buy Now' and the supplements are available on the next screen.

To be honest you may be best visiting a station - it's the same price whether you book on-line or at a station.

 

[KingBruss]

Thanks Hadders, I hadn't gone far enough in the booking process.

 

[Be3G]

IIRC the only difference between a solo occupied standard berth and a 1st class one is that in standard the top bunk is left folded down. I think you also get a bacon roll in 1st as opposed to a packet of shortbread in standard.

A little more specifically, in first class one is given a breakfast (choice of hot or continental) with hot drink, whereas in standard class all that's included is biscuits and the hot drink. Standard class passengers can however pay £4 on the train to upgrade to the first class continental option, or go to the lounge car in the morning to purchase hot breakfast items.