Calling train travellers - queuing system - First Great Western

ttt

although they say there will be an ordely que, it will infact be a free for all.
the fact they are not allowing seat reservations is an admission that they know they can't control it, be thankful you're not travelling on the Friday !

Been about 15 years since I last did it on the rattler, but I have friends who do the Wed day trip and say the train to London is chaos.
What they've they been doing for a while is getting a train from Cheltenham Spa to Bristol (40 mins) then the train to London (1hr 40 mins), they say this takes about 15 mins longer than the straight Chelt-London train but you get to travel in some sort of comfort.
Might be worth considering....

Thanks

bellfunk - What about 1st class?  Is that a free for all or will they control that?

I use the train every year and it's not as bad as you might think...no worse than a commute into London say!

I'd advise you not to rush back, don't try and beat the crowds because you won't! Better off seeing all the racing, taking a nice leisurely walk from the course to the station, stop off in town for a drink or something to eat, and get a train that departs between 8 & 9pm; no sod about at that time, you'll pretty much have the train to yourself!

cheers dwm

Certainly won't be rushing off!

I'm thinking that the 7.40pm is the best to get as it's the last direct service to London Padd.

Hope that one will be ok.

I still wonder what the 1st class situation is.  Have asked the train company and can't get any sense out of them.

i got laughed at for actually having a first class ticket in first class!

I think all rules go out the window; if you've got a 1st Class ticket you'll probably find you've just paid more to stand up!! Yeah the 7.40pm should be fine, you should get a seat no problem! I've found it's only the trains between 5pm & 7pm that are really bad. Good luck!

If a seat is your priority you might want to consider National Express coaches who are running from London direct to and from the course.

I've never done this, but it shouldn't take any longer timewise (maybe even less) plus you'd be sure of a seat.

cheers for the tips and advice all

Will stick with the 7.40pm and hope for the best!

I do have a seat reservation on the way there at least so will be able to have a coffee and read the rp