Travelled Sunderland to London return this week with Grand Central 1st off peak senior return £65.35 which is very cheap as it was only booked a few days in advance. Problem with earlier train meant we all had to bundle onto 12.50 Northern Trains to Hartlepool where our GC train was waiting. But otherwise both journeys were excellent and it is true the staff are very friendly and helpful [not to say most ECML staff are not very pleasant]. Bacon butty is good, but they never delivered on their promise for full dining.
I am convinced they make most of their money by business people leaping on the 11.27 thinking they are on the 11.30 ECML and then having to pay full fare again. They do announce that advance ECML tickets are not valid on GC at least twice before the train leaves.
The journey to London over the next two weekends will either be horrendous or very interesting depending on how you view it. Trains to go to Cambridge!!! and then National Express East Anglia to Liverpool Street min 5hrs 15mins.
I am convinced they make most of their money by business people leaping on the 11.27 thinking they are on the 11.30 ECML and then having to pay full fare again. They do announce that advance ECML tickets are not valid on GC at least twice before the train leaves.
The journey to London over the next two weekends will either be horrendous or very interesting depending on how you view it. Trains to go to Cambridge!!! and then National Express East Anglia to Liverpool Street min 5hrs 15mins.
