What should I do?

[voyagerdude220]

Hi all,

I've got 3 options, all covering the ECML and MML, one way, but don't know which to choose from. (I will be travelling FC, and the level of service is something i'd consider, as well as seating arrangements

Main factors to know are:-
Either travelling on a GNER HST, and then MML Meridian, or
travelling on a MML HST, and then GNER 91, or
travelling on a MML HST, and then HT Pioneer.

Questions:
1 a) What do you get in FC, on MML? [drinks, any snacks, etc?]
b) What's it like on an HST? [are seats comfortable, legroom etc?]
c) What's it like on a Meridian? [are seats comfortable, legroom etc?]

2) What's it like on a GNER 91+MK4 set? (I've never been on one before!)
I'm assuming you get the same service as I did on a GNER HST Aberdeen to Edinburgh?

3) Hull Trains- The BIG questions:
a) Is First Class all in one carriage, as the pic on HT website seems like it shares FC with SC? (BIG mistake IMO if it is)

b) Any idea what usually forms TPE's 16:37 Hull to Manchester?

c) Does Hull have ticket/human barriers?- Could i buy onboard TPE?


---------------------------------------------------------------

If given the choice, would you travel MML HST, or GNER HST?
would you travel MML Meridian, or HT Pioneer?

Many thanks for quick responses, as i really need to book tickets soon. My Dad has agreed to go halfs, so I've re-entered HT into the picture!

Edit: Option 1 etc mean what I stated under "Main Factors"

 

[devon_metro]

I'd go Standard

 

[Daniel]

I would definatley go on GNER.

 

[me123]

I'm not in a position to compare, but I recommend GNER. The staff aren't always friendly (some are downright rude) but the Mallards are very comfy inside, and it is quite luxurious for SC.

 

[Max]

Regarding your 3 last questions:

a. Hull Trains have a dedicated first class coach AND an extra section sharing with standard. You can generally get a seat in the individual coach section no problem though.

b. It's pot luck to be honest, but I've known this to be 185 before. However, with more 170s arriving as we speak, I can't see this lasting (if it's not already changed!).

c. Revenue protection occasionally do suprise barrier checks, but 99% of the time there are no barriers. There are no electronic barriers.

 

[voyagerdude220]

Regarding your 3 last questions:

a. Hull Trains have a dedicated first class coach AND an extra section sharing with standard. You can generally get a seat in the individual coach section no problem though.

b. It's pot luck to be honest, but I've known this to be 185 before. However, with more 170s arriving as we speak, I can't see this lasting (if it's not already changed!).

c. Revenue protection occasionally do suprise barrier checks, but 99% of the time there are no barriers. There are no electronic barriers.

Many thanks Max, HT it is then!

I've always wanted to do it, and if the booking goes through fine, I'll be able to experience both MML (HST style ) and also HT, with a 3-course meal thrown in

 

[Jordy]

c. Revenue protection occasionally do suprise barrier checks, but 99% of the time there are no barriers. There are no electronic barriers.

c) Does Hull have ticket/human barriers?- Could i buy onboard TPE?

I do not suggest buying on board on TPE however, with my experiance the Hull crews are quite desperate!

 

[martyn29]

how much will this trip cost?

 

[voyagerdude220]

how much will this trip cost?

You don't normally ask people that. hock:

 

[martyn29]

well I was only asking!!!

 

[metrocammel]

3 Deffo!

In FC on GNER you get sweet fa. Well, a cup of tea and some nuts. If it was a tram, then OK, go gner. It's not though. Its a 91, with back-breaking Mallard seats. Don't do it!


On Hull, In FC, (as you dont uprgrade), you will get a nice meal (a starter, main course, and desert) plus tea, juices etc. Furthermore, this level of "comfort" is on all services- even Sundays, so IMO, GO HULL!

(On HT, there are 1 1/2 coaches of FC- the standard / first composite coach is for the FC upgrade pax only- and in this coach you only get biscuits / hot drinks- whereas only full FC ticket pax get the meals)

 

[voyagerdude220]

Hi Metrocammel, it's nice to hear from you

I totally agree about GNER's FC giving you fa, and did go with Hull Trains on Tuesday 23rd October.

I'll post how the journey went in the story section of the forum.

 

[Daniel]

Free wifi is nice if you have a Portable Computer though... and I love VT.

 

[Craig]

Free wifi is nice if you have a Macbook though

What difference does having a Macbook make?

 

[Daniel]

Modified to make it more universal =] makes no difference

 

[metrocammel]

Modified to make it more universal =] makes no difference

It's called trying showing off :P