Virgin train travel - in london?

daffod1ll

I'm hoping for some advice regarding train travel - am off to London for a day before the new year. Nearest train station is Birmingham Int, but could also leave/travel from Birmingham or Coventry.

If I travel from Birmingham (moor st), I can take Chiltern railways to London, and the price includes travel on london underground. Alternatively I can catch virgin train from any of the three stations - but that doesn't include london underground travel.

Can I add this option to my virgin ticket? (I've searched their website but don't see this option).

Ta!!!

dzug1

Chiltern's price does not automatically include the underground - you have to buy the right ticket.

If you mean 'can I make my destination London zone 1 rather than Euston/Marylebone?' then the answer is yes - for just about any rail ticket.

If you mean 'can I add on a day travelcard to my ticket to London?' then it depends on the ticket - if you are buying an anytime or off peak day return then the answer is yes. If you are buying a longer period ticket or advance singles - then no, you have to buy the travelcard separately.

An off peak day return from New Street to Euston with Virgin* is £42; with a travel card added on it's £42.50. I'm sure such things exist from International and Coventry as well, probably a little cheaper

*Actually valid on any operator, but other operators are usually cheaper if you don't need that flexibility

KeithP

Slightly off topic, but if you are looking for a real bargain on this route before 4 Jan, then look at London Midland Trains' Great Escape.

£10.00 Birmingham - London return can't be bad.

laird

In addition if you are driving then the free? car park at Tame Bridge Parkway for the Wrexham and Shropshire train to London Marylebone might be of interest. I presume they can offer through ticketing to the underground system but if not they sell oyster cards from the buffet.

With the exception of Virgin Value fares London Midland, Chiltern and Wrexham and Shropshire should all offer lower fares if you will restrict yourself to their services or travelling through High Wycombe.

If your destination is in West London then from Birmingham there may even be an advantage to using Cross Country and First Great Western via Reading toward London Paddington. If this is an option consider whether you can get advance fares to Banbury/Oxford/Reading as split ticketing on this route can result in saving money.

daffod1ll

Thanks to all who replied - I never knew there were so many options available! The information is much appreciated!