Is it worth the extra for First Class?

[blakey1152]

Hi All,
Looking to travel from Kings Cross to Kings Lynn on Tuesday and I want to get the first off peak train from Kings Cross (the 0944) and return around 5pm. I looked at the fares at the first class off peak return is a shade under £20 more than the standard return.

I don't mind paying that if the 0944 is likely to be exceptionally busy if it means I'll get a seat on both legs (although of course I'm getting on at the starting stations in both instances)

Is this route still operated using the 313 class?
I'm assuming that the First class offering is just a bigger? seat with a table in a sealed off compartment with no free refreshments - GN web site of no help as doesn't give any details of what if anything its first class gives you.

If it's likely to be quiet then I'll save the £20 and spend on beer in Kings Lynn instead

Just wanted to get a feel as to whether its worth paying the extra for the train or the beer after!
Thanks everyone
Blakey

 

[Hadders]

I'd save your money to be honest. 1st class in a 365 is ok - separate compartment but it's still 2+2 seating although slightly nicer seats than in standard.

You'll be able to get a seat no problem as you'll be getting on the train at the start.

Thankfully the 387s aren't cleared to Kings Lynn yet - if they were 1st class is absolutely no different to standard class.

 

[Kite159]

Save the money and go standard class. £20 isn't worth the extra on the 365s

 

[bengolding]

I do Kings Cross to Cambridge often and always get the First Off Peak Day return which is good value with my DSB railcard. Just the benefit of a compartment and being able to spread out on a table of 4, plus I often have need to stop at Stevenage so get the added benefits of Virgin 1st Class freebies.

On my last trip I did get to travel on a newer GTR train heading to the Fens with power sockets in 1st. Also noticed recently there have been more RPI checks on board. Already lost count of how many customers with Standard tickets have been found sitting in 1st on off peak trains, so plenty of seats in Standard.

 

[blakey1152]

Thanks everyone
I'll go for standard and split at Cambridge to save a quid or so
and save the rest for Guinness!

Blakey

 

[Ianno87]

0944 really won't be busy, and you'll get first pick of seats at Lynn on the way back.