Ticket advice for an anxious commuter

Kingmob31

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81962354#Comment_81962354

I just realised it's quicker to get the bus to Earley station (the next one on from Reading) and take the train from there, but I imagine I should still be ok for a seat. Fingers crossed, anyway.

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81962380#Comment_81962380

That's interesting. What a nightmare transport system we have when the new trains are actually slower. I guess I was thinking more about how unpleasant Bakerloo can be during the summer. And I say this from the POV of someone visiting rather than commuting.

martindow

I'm sure Earley will be fine for getting a seat as the train fills up bit by bit during its journey. At Reading you enter the platform at the back of the train and many passengers get on as soon as they see a carriage with spare seats. The front of the train tends to have very few passengers especially as nearly all of the trains are now ten coaches long. The front is best for Waterloo but most passengers are not travelling the complete route. Many get off at intermediate stations such as Richmond for tube connections and the centre or rear of the train is best for them.

Are you walking to Earley or driving? There is a car park, but it is small so could well fill up and probably is expensive. Many of the streets nearby and the other side of Wokingham Road have parking restrictions for one hour during the day, so commuter cars left there can get tickets. There was a previous history of inconsiderate parking, blocking driveways, etc. If you are driving, I would suggest you have a reconnoitre in advance to plan where you will leave your car.

Grumpy_chap

Reading to Waterloo is a relaxing journey. Platforms 4, 5 or 6 at Reading, there is usually a train waiting or only a short wait if not. Go to the very front of the train and there is usually the First Class compartment within the carriage which is a little more space / comfort with table and power sockets so you can use your laptop or whatever if you wish or read a book. It is usually a bit quieter in the compartment. No extra cost because "this service is standard class throughout" as the announcements will regularly say.

katejo

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/6664074/ticket-advice-for-an-anxious-commuter

Are you aware of the planned tube strikes next week?

spenderdave

Oh yes, the tube strikes. In your case you say you are working just across the bridge so you can walk from Waterloo but expect the trains to be very busy.

The 'first class' sections are a good tip but only apply to their Desiro (450 class) trains, two sections in the 8 coach train but not necessarily at the front. Their new Arterio trains which are slowly replacing the others don't have these but are somewhat more spacious. You will soon get bored with all the auto announcements…

Vitor

Have a look at getting a Flexi Season Ticket which allows 8 days of travel to use within any 28-day period. Generally, 20% cheaper than anytime day returns.

Albermarle

The newly nationalised South Western Railway service from Reading to Waterloo, has mainly brand new trains and is pretty reliable.

However you need a Plan B ( &C) for when there are problems, usually something around Clapham Junction.

Rosa_Damascena

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81962354#Comment_81962354

To me that is a key consideration. A longer journey on your feet is unproductive time.

middlewife

Also live in Reading equal distance from Twyford station, Reading station, Winnersh triangle or Early. IIRC not every train will stop at Early. You can park in South lake part of Woodley and there's a footpath which goes under or over the motorway coming out near the station, about 5 to 10 minutes walk, but it's a bit remote.

Timewise, there really isn't much in it as transfers on and off the tube uses almost as much time. I hate the Elizabeth line, it takes longer, no toilets, uncomfortable seats, but it can sometimes save over the tube, depending on your final destination.

All the stations along the reading part of both routes have limited expensive parking and virtually no free on street parking.

Most people seem to be leaning towards Waterloo line, and I'd agree

Re ticketing, I find Trainline easier to use than the TOC websites, there's a small fee. Refunds are easier than GWR .

Try a dry run of both routes when you're not going to work and less stressed.

martindow

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81975949#Comment_81975949

I think all the Waterloo trains stop at Earley. Gatwick trains run non-stop from Reading to Wokingham, but they are irrelevant if you are going to London.