The problem I face is getting to London early enough to catch the early train. I could fly but I don't drive and some flights leave too early for the first train out from Guildford, if you include the waiting around in advance time at the Airport.
Yes there are budget hotels but the cost of a train ticket or flight ticket and a budget hotel is more than the sleeper service. I guess that is because they are part-funded. Also I don't need to take time off work to take the sleeper service. I can go after work.
One of the big benefits of overnight travel is the fact that time is saved by using sleeping time for travelling. For people who work, it is a great convenience to be able to set off in the late evening and wake up the enxt morning in Scotland or Cornwall.
On the other hand, there are those who would prefer to sleep in their own beds and rise at an ungodly hour in order to avoid travelling through the night.
Isn't it obvious that any new rolling stock needs to be built so that the bunks somehow convert into seating for daytime use?
Yes, that could be a good idea. With such flexibility, it could be possible to reintroduce overnight services on other routes like Bristol or Brighton - Aberdeen or Inverness
To keep costs down the most obvious configuration, for standard class, being doorless bays that have four bunks but reconfigure into two couches. With a policy of "bring your own sleeping bag" (or buy one from the shop on the train if you wish). That's a lot cheaper than providing bedding would be and more in line with the modern way of life.
With, if you like, a limited number of super first class cabins at outrageous prices but with all mod cons for the wealthy.
I like that idea.
The sleeper is a relaxed and civilised way to travel, and I find it very useful for both work and pleasure.
I can use it for a days walking in the Highlands with just one day off work. By day trains that would take up three days. Similarly the sleeper makes a short break in the Highlands more viable than day trains which need a day each way to travel.
Quite right! This is why I favour a reconfiguration as Holly has suggested to allow more choice and a greater range of fares with a view to making the services more economic. I would have seats, couchette type bunks and luxury en suite cabins available at a wide range of fares - after all choice is what we are used to nowadays!
