Pleasant mini weekend break by train?

[WestCoast]

Britain's rail network is now suitable only for getting from A to B, and is most definitely not something to be enjoyed for its own sake. Dirty and overcrowded trains, grumpy staff, undecipherable ticket conditions and inconsiderate fellow passengers make a journey something to be endured rather than enjoyed.

I am someone who constantly refers continental European rail practices, but even I must say you are exaggerating.

That really depends on where you are. Perhaps on the London commute where staff and passengers are just fed up, but it's not always like that.

The 158s on the S&C line have friendly Northern Rail staff, relaxed travellers, they are not usually overcrowded, and the trains aren't that dirty!

 

[LE Greys]

I am someone who constantly refers continental European rail practices, but even I must say you are exaggerating.

That really depends on where you are. Perhaps on the London commute where staff and passengers are just fed up, but it's not always like that.

The 158s on the S&C line have friendly Northern Rail staff, relaxed travellers, they are not usually overcrowded, and the trains aren't that dirty!

Maybe I was just unlucky with that pair of 153s last time.

Still, European practices may be interesting from an enthusiast's perspective, but imagine Cross-Country being operated by battered 47s and 86s hauling unrefurbished MkIIc's. Sometimes they are not looked after very well, although they do see a lot of hard work. Cranks might be delighted, but would normals appreciate it that much? The contrast between TGVs and regional expresses always astonishes me in France. I don't know much about Germany, but they seem to have new, decent stock rather than either problem.

 

[RichmondCommu]

Pretty much describes every attempt I have ever made to do the S & C. Usually ends up ****ing down with rain too. I will keep trying as I do every visit to the UK but I am beginning to wonder whether the spectacular scenery is a myth! Carlisle to be fair is quite an interesting place to wander around.

Broaden your horizons - The Indian Pacific either way would suit you down to the ground (well apart from the olde town bit - Sydney and Perth are not that old).

Trust me the secenery is fantastic! Pretty much all the way from Settle to Ribblehead you have wonderful views of Penyghent (well worth the climb!) and the views of Dentdale after you burst out of Blea Moor are the finest you will see in England. The views from Mallerstang and the Eden valley after Appleby are pretty good too. However you have to remember that you are in the high fells and the weather can be very changeable!

 

[WestCoast]

Maybe I was just unlucky with that pair of 153s last time.

Still, European practices may be interesting from an enthusiast's perspective, but imagine Cross-Country being operated by battered 47s and 86s hauling unrefurbished MkIIc's. Sometimes they are not looked after very well, although they do see a lot of hard work. Cranks might be delighted, but would normals appreciate it that much? The contrast between TGVs and regional expresses always astonishes me in France. I don't know much about Germany, but they seem to have new, decent stock rather than either problem.

Yes, I think you may have been unlucky with the double 153s, it's the 158s now mainly and be happy it's not a pacer!

Germany is interesting. The ICE services (i.e. fast InterCity) have new fast stock, while the IC has older push-pull stock which isn't glamourous at all! However, the Regional-Express services are mainly smart push=pull double decker stock. Many of the local trains have been renewed with new EMUs and DMUs (like the Bombardier TALENT) when the states award contracts to the private TOCs.

 

[RichmondCommu]

Maybe I was just unlucky with that pair of 153s last time.

Still, European practices may be interesting from an enthusiast's perspective, but imagine Cross-Country being operated by battered 47s and 86s hauling unrefurbished MkIIc's. Sometimes they are not looked after very well, although they do see a lot of hard work. Cranks might be delighted, but would normals appreciate it that much? The contrast between TGVs and regional expresses always astonishes me in France. I don't know much about Germany, but they seem to have new, decent stock rather than either problem.

My in-laws live near Blackburn and travel down to visit us around 6 times a year. They absolutely rave about the Pendolino but they certainly didn't when they travelled down with MkIII's and a class 87. The Pendolinos have been a big hit in the North West. The only thing i hear against them is that "its a funny looking thing". As you have correctly stated the travelling public want modern trains and not something that should be in the NRM!