A train operator is planning to compete with budget airlines by launching a fast, low-cost, train service between London and Edinburgh
FirstGroup, which currently runs train
franchises across Britain, said that passengers would benefit from “low
fares, free Wi-Fi and on-board catering”, on new, single-class trains
that would run five times a day between London Kings Cross and the Scottish capital.
Although possible fare structures have not been announced, FirstGroup
said it would be “highly competitive with budget air carriers”.
The service is apparently designed specifically to lure passengers away
from low-cost airlines, on a route by which two-thirds of trips are
currently made by plane.
Two-thirds of trips to Edinburgh from London are by air, according to a
rail operator hoping to launch a rival train service. (Photo: AP)
If FirstGroup’s submission for track access, currently with the Office
of Rail Regulation, is successful, the new services will be introduced
from 2018.
Tim O’Toole, FirstGroup’s chief executive, said:
“These innovative plans will give customers travelling between London, the North East of England and Edinburgh an attractive alternative to flying. We hope to entice passengers away from budget airlines through our low fares and high-quality trains.”
The service would run from London Kings Cross. (Photo: AP)
The four-and-a-half-hour service would make stops at Stevenage, Newcastle and Morpeth. The stops in Stevenage and Morpeth would be convenient for travellers wanting to then take a flight from Britain, as these train stations are hopping-off points for Luton, Stansted, and Newcastle airports.
Telegraph Travel has previously investigated the cheapest way to get to Edinburgh from London, with coach services proving the most economical mode of transport. At the end of last year, the findings showed that a coach ticket cost £36, and a rail ticket £87 when booked a week ahead of travel.
“These innovative plans will give customers travelling between London, the North East of England and Edinburgh an attractive alternative to flying. We hope to entice passengers away from budget airlines through our low fares and high-quality trains.”
The service would run from London Kings Cross. (Photo: AP) The four-and-a-half-hour service would make stops at Stevenage, Newcastle and Morpeth. The stops in Stevenage and Morpeth would be convenient for travellers wanting to then take a flight from Britain, as these train stations are hopping-off points for Luton, Stansted, and Newcastle airports.
Telegraph Travel has previously investigated the cheapest way to get to Edinburgh from London, with coach services proving the most economical mode of transport. At the end of last year, the findings showed that a coach ticket cost £36, and a rail ticket £87 when booked a week ahead of travel.
