Contents
CONTACTS...... 4
NEW PRODUCTS AND OFFERS FOR 2010...... 5
RAIL PRODUCTS...... 7
BRITRAIL PASSES ...... 7 3.1 BritRail Consecutive Pass & FlexiPass* ...... 7 3.2 BRITRAIL ENGLAND CONSECUTIVE PASS & FLEXIPASS*...... 9 3.3 BRITRAIL PASS + IRELAND ...... 11 3.4 EURAIL IRELAND PASS* ...... 11 3.5 BRITRAIL LONDON PLUS PASS* ...... 13 3.6 BRITRAIL SCOTTISH FREEDOM PASS...... 14 3.7 BRITRAIL CENTRAL SCOTLAND PASS...... 15
BRITRAIL POINT TO POINT TICKETS...... 16 3.8 BRITRAIL OPEN POINT TO POINT TICKETS...... 16
AIRPORT EXPRESS TRAINS ...... 17 3.9 HEATHROW EXPRESS ...... 17 3.10 GATWICK EXPRESS ...... 17 3.11 STANSTED EXPRESS ...... 17 3.12 LUTON AIRPORT TRANSFER...... 18 3.13 MANCHESTER AIRPORT TO MANCHESTER...... 18 3.14 BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT TO BIRMINGHAM ...... 18
BRITRAIL TRAVEL EXTRAS ...... 19 3.15 CALEDONIAN SLEEPERS ...... 19 3.16 EUROSTAR...... 20 3.17 LONDON VISITOR TRAVELCARD...... 20 3.18 OYSTER CARD...... 21 3.19 CITY SIGHTSEEING BUS TOURS ...... 22 3.20 RAILTOURS IREL AND ...... 23 3.21 GOLDEN TOURS ...... 25 3.22 BATEAUX LONDON & CITY CRUISES ...... 25 3.23 GREAT BRITISH HERITAGE PASS* ...... 26 3.24 ENGLISH HERITAGE OVERSEAS VISITOR PASS* ...... 27 3.25 HISTORIC ROYAL PALACES PASS*...... 28 3.26 LONDON SIGHTSEEING PASS* ...... 28 3.27 YORKSHIRE PASS* NEWLY NAMED APRIL 2010 ...... 29 3.28 DUBLIN PASS* ...... 29 3.29 EDINBURGH PASS* ...... 29 3.30 BRITRAIL IRISH SEA CROSSING ...... 30 3.31 THE ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA...... 30 3.32 BEATLES STORY ...... 30 3.33 LONDON DUNGEON...... 31
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BRITRAIL SEAT & SLEEPER RESERVATIONS ...... 31 3.34 SEAT RESERVATIONS...... 32 3.35 SLEEPER RESERVATIONS & SERVICES ...... 32 3.36 BRITRAIL TEAMS WITH HERITAGE RAILWAYS...... 32
WHY SHOULD I BUY A BRITRAIL PASS? ...... 35
OUR ADVICE… ...... 35 BUT FIRST, WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES?...... 35 IS A BRITRAIL PASS RIGHT FOR MY CLIENTS? ...... 36 WHY BUY A FIRST CLASS PASS?...... 36 WHAT IS THE DIFFERENC E BETWEEN FIRST AND STANDARD CLASS IN BRITAIN?...... 37 DO ALL TRAINS HAVE FIRST CLASS? ...... 37
SUGGESTED ROUTES AND PLANNING A TRIP...... 38 GETTING TRAIN TIMES ...... 39
SUGGESTED ‘HUB’ CITIES AND SHORT TRIPS...... 40
SCENIC RAIL ROUTES IN BRITAIN...... 43
ARRIVING IN BRITAIN BY AIR ...... 44 London Heathrow...... 44 London Gatwick ...... 45 London Stansted ...... 45 London Luton ...... 45 Birmingham Airport ...... 45 Manchester Airport...... 46 Edinburgh Airport ...... 46 Glasgow Airport...... 46 Bristol Airport ...... 46
RESERVATIONS POLICY AND ADVICE...... 47 Are there times when it is advisable to reserve a seat? ...... 47 How are Seat Reservations made?...... 47
RAIL TRAVEL FOR DISABLED PASSENGERS...... 48
CATERING TIPS...... 49
LUGGAGE TIPS AND TRAVELLING IN BRITAIN ...... 50
CANCELLATIONS, REFUNDS, RESPONSIBILITY & LIABILITY...... 51
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CONTACTS
BritRail is a division of ACP Rail International, which manages overseas sales of the BritRail product range.
Helpdesks for our ticketing systems are available to deal with any booking problems and are open Monday to Friday 0600-2300 CET:
RailNet Helpdesk [email protected] Tel: 001 514 904 2611 AccesRail Helpdesk [email protected] Tel: 001 514 904 2611 North American BritRail Call Centre [email protected] Tel: 866-BRITRAIL Agent web site www.Agent.ACPRail.com
International Offices:
London Office: For European and Asia Pacific Sales 2nd Floor, Sutton House 158 Victoria Street London SW1E 5LB Tel: +44 (0)20 7834 4712 Fax: +44 (0)20 7821 6667
Name Title Based e-mail Albert An Sales Manager, China China [email protected]
Keith Gallacher Sales Manager, Asia Australia [email protected] Pacific Jin Seob Kim Sales Manager, Korea Korea [email protected]
Guy DeRoo Territory Coordinator, Belgium [email protected] Europe, Sales Manager, Benelux Ian Campbell Sales Manager, UK, London [email protected] India, Russia, Japan, Africa Bengt Sales Manager, Berlin [email protected] Severinson Germany, Austria and Eastern Europe Brian Hammond Sales Manager, Italy Italy [email protected]
Head Office 785 Plymouth Avenue, Suite 305 Montreal, Quebec, H4P 1B3 Tel: (514) 733-5247 Fax: (514) 733-5541
Name Title Based e-mail Tim Roebuck VP Sales US [email protected] Fernando Sales Manager, Central & Mexico [email protected] Reynoso South America Rich Guzoski Sales Manager US [email protected] Angela Guezen Sales Coordinator Montreal [email protected]
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NEW PRODUCTS AND OFFERS FOR 2010
There are a few changes and additions to the range for 2010, as follows:
New BritRail London Plus Pass in Europe: The BritRail Euro London Plus Pass is only available to European residents. The BritRail Euro London Plus Pass does NOT contain 2 Airport Express coupons.
National Express Airport Links, coming soon! National Express Airport Links is a coach (bus) service to UK destinations in England, Wales and Scotland. Customers travel from Heathrow Airport, Gatwick Airport or Stansted Airport to the zone of their choice: Zone 1 = London, Zone 2 = rest of England and Wales, Zone 3= Scotland. Customers receive 2 one-way bus segments, from the airport to their destination and return. The customer will select a specific city within his/her destination zone. That point will be the departure point to return to Heathrow, Gatwick or Stansted Airport.
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BRIT RAIL MAP
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RAIL PRODUCTS
BRITRAIL PASSES
3.1 BritRail Consecutive Pass & FlexiPass*
BritRail Passes allow unlimited travel in England, Scotland and Wales on any scheduled trains over the whole of Great Britain’s National Rail network during the validity of the Pass without restrictions. Heathrow Express, Gatwick Express and Stansted Express, trains from Luton Airport to London, from Birmingham and Manchester airports are also included.
BritRail Consecutive Pass is valid for travel on a set number of consecutive days. Passes are available for 3, 4, 8, 15, 22 days or 1 month. Europeans have access to a 2 version but not the 3 day pass.
BritRail FlexiPass permits the holder to choose the travel days within the period of validity. Passes are available for 3, 4, 8 or 15 days travel within 2 months. Europeans have access to a 2 day version.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Senior and Youth Discounts:
Senior Youth First Class Standard & First Class BritRail Consecutive Up to 15% Up to 20% BritRail FlexiPass Up to 15% Up to 20%
*Please note, in Europe, these passes are called BritRail Euro Passes and have only 1 month validity periods for the FlexiPass.
Children One child aged 5-15 can travel FREE with each full price adult or senior pass. Additional children (5-15) pay half the adult fare. Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket.
Off-Peak All Customers receive up to an additional 20% discount when traveling during the following dates: 1st January – 28th February 2010 and 1st November 2010 – 28th February 2011. Doubling up on discounts (such as Senior rates in Off Peak) has been discontinued.
Party Discount The 3rd to 9th people traveling in a group receive up to a 50% discount.
Guest Pass Allows a friend or relative, residing in the UK, to accompany you as you travel. Available in 1st or Standard Class, UK guest and traveler get up to 25% off each. The UK guest passenger must travel with the pass holder at all times and provide proof of residence upon request.
Discount for EuroStar Travelers with any BritRail Pass are eligible to a reduced rate when traveling on EuroStar trains. Simply show the BritRail Pass when purchasing a EuroStar ticket to profit from this amazing offer! (Does not use up a travel day on the pass)
Eurail Pass Holder Rate Youths between the ages of 16 and 25 (inclusive) who have a valid Eurail Pass receive up to a 50% discount on the Standard Adult fare.
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Other Notes BritRail Passes are not valid on Eurostar services between London and Brussels or Paris, Transport for London Underground trains or buses, on special excursions, on ships or other Channel ferries, or on coach services. BritRail Passes are not valid on trains in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland or any other transport service not mentioned here. Some commuter services do not have First Class; this has been allowed for in the price.
Ideal for… BritRail Consecutive Pass is ideal for those whose time is restricted and will be ‘on the move’. BritRail FlexiPass is ideal for those who wish to linger several days or a week or more in one location.
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3.2 BRITRAIL ENGLAND CONSECUTIVE PASS & FLEXIPASS*
BritRail England Passes allow unlimited travel in England on any scheduled train. Heathrow Express, Gatwick Express and Stansted Express, trains from Luton Airport to London, from Birmingham and Manchester airports are also included.
BritRail England Consecutive Pass is valid for travel on a set number of consecutive days. Passes are available for 3, 4, 8, 15, 22 days or 1 month. Europeans have access to a 2 day version and not the 3 day version.
BritRail England FlexiPass permits the holder to choose the travel days within the period of validity. Passes are available for 3, 4, 8 or 15 days of travel within 2 months. Europeans have access to a 2 day version and not the 3 day pass.
The boundary stations for this pass are:
Carlisle, Berwick upon Tweed, Lyndey, Gloucester, Cheltenham, Hereford, Bucknell, Shrewsbury, Chirk, Crewe, Chester, West Kirby.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Senior and Youth Discounts: . Senior Youth First Class Standard & First Class BritRail Consecutive Up to 15% Up to 20%
BritRail FlexiPass Up to 15% Up to 20%
* Please note, in Europe, these passes are called BritRail Euro England Passes and have only 1 month validity periods for the FlexiPass.
Children One child aged 5-15 can travel FREE with each full price adult or senior pass. Additional children (5-15) pay half the adult fare. Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket.
Off-Peak All customers receive up to an additional 20% discount when travelling during the following dates: 1st January – 28th February 2010 and 1st November 2010 – 28th February 2011. Doubling up on discounts (such as Senior rates in Off Peak) has been discontinued.
Party Discount The 3rd to 9th person travelling in a group receive up to a 50% discount. Please note that to benefit from the party discount, travellers must be in the presence of the ticket holder. Additionally, not all passengers listed on the party pass need be in attendance for the pass to be valid.
Guest Pass Allows a friend or relative, residing in the UK, to accompany you as you travel. Available in 1st or Standard Class, UK guest and traveler get up to 25% off each. The UK guest passenger must travel with the pass holder at all times and provide proof of residence upon request.
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Discount for EuroStar Travelers with any BritRail Pass are eligible to a reduced rate when traveling on EuroStar trains. Simply show the BritRail Pass when purchasing a EuroStar ticket to profit from this amazing offer! (Does not use up a travel day on the pass)
Other Notes BritRail Passes are not valid on Eurostar services between London and Brussels or Paris, Transport for London Underground trains or buses, on special excursions, on ships or other Channel ferries, or on coach services. BritRail Passes are not valid on trains in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland or any other transport service not mentioned here. Some commuter services do not have First Class; this has been allowed for in the price.
Ideal for… BritRail England Consecutive Pass is ideal for those whose time is restricted and will be ‘on the move’. BritRail England FlexiPass is ideal for those who wish to linger several days or a week or more in one location.
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3.3 BRITRAIL PASS + IRELAND
Unlimited rail travel in England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This pass no longer contains the Ferry Crossings, making it more economical and flexible for travellers who wish to fly between Britain and Ireland.
BritRail Pass + Ireland is available for 5 or 10 days within 1 month
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Children Children aged 5-15 pay half the adult fare. Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket.
Other Notes Reservations for sea crossings are not necessary. Why not combine this Pass with our new Dublin Pass, giving free access to the city’s main attractions.
Ideal for… Independent travellers visiting both Great Britain and Ireland.
3.4 EURAIL IRELAND PASS*
Irish Rail provides a modern, comfortable and frequent rail service to most parts of Ireland. With ten routes in all, the Intercity service serves major cities a number of times daily with catering services on many trains. Many Eurail tourists use Irish Rail to access many famous holiday locations e.g. the Lakes of Killarney and Connemara, and avail of the many rail bus connections offered by Bus Eireann. The Eurail Ireland Pass is available for 5 days in 1 month in 2nd class only.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Senior and Youth Discounts: . Senior Youth 2nd Class 2nd Class Eurail Ireland pass Up to 15% Up to 25%
Children Children aged 5-15 pay half the adult fare. ` Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket.
*Please note, in Europe, this pass is called the InterRail Ireland Pass and is available for 3, 4, 6 or 8 flexible travel days within one month. InterRail Passes can only be used by European residents. Fares are available for adults or children in first or second class and youth in second class.
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Ferry discounts with the Eurail Ireland Pass:
Irish Ferries: 30% discount on current foot passenger fares on these ferry routes, if your Eurail Pass is valid in either the country of departure OR the country of arrival: Pembroke (Great Britain) - Rosslare Holyhead (Great Britain) - Dublin Ferryport Roscof (France) - Rosslare (May to September, no daily sailings, reservation compulsory) Cherbourg (France) - Rosslare (February to December, no daily sailings, reservation compulsory) Cabin accommodation is available at an extra charge. In order to claim the reduction, please make your booking on-line at www.irishferries.com and pay in full first. Then e-mail your booking reference number and your Eurail Pass number to [email protected]. The relevant reduction will be applied to your booking and the credit will be refunded to you via the credit card system. Please send the e-mail to Irish Ferries at least 5 days before your outward travel date. You may be asked to show your Eurail Pass when you check-in for the sailing. More information: France +33 (0)233 234 444; Ireland +353 (0)818 300 400 www.irishferries.com
Stena Line: 30% discount on the ferry routes: Rosslare - Fishguard (Wales): Express/Superferry Dublin Port - Holyhead (Wales) Superferry (Day Service) Dun Loghaire - Holyhead (Wales): High Speed Service Belfast - Stanraer (Scotland): Ferry/High Speed Service More information: www.stenaline.com. Or call + 353 (0) 12 047 777.
Norfolkline Irish Sea: 25% discount on the ferry routes: Belfast-Liverpool (Birkenhead) Dublin-Liverpool (Birkenhead) More info: www.norfolkline.com or call +44 20 8127 8303.
If a benefit only consists of a discount, it is not necessary to use a travel day. In case of discounted passage, your Pass must be valid for the country of departure OR the country of arrival.
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3.5 BRITRAIL LONDON PLUS PASS*
Unlimited rail travel in the south east of England, including Oxford, Cambridge & Brighton, and Bristol, Bath and Stratford-Upon-Avon. The Boundary Stations of the London Plus Pass are: Harwich, Kings Lynn, Huntingdon, Bedford, Long Buckby, Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Foregate, Bedwyn, Salisbury, Bristol Temple Meads and Weymouth.
The BritRail London Plus Pass is available in Adult first or Adult Standard for 2 or 4 days within 8 days or 7 days within 15 days.
The Pass now contains 2 extra coupons valid on either the Heathrow Express, Stansted Express or Gatwick Express. Coupons need not be used on the same express.
* Please note, in Europe, this pass is called the BritRail Euro London Plus Pass and does NOT contain 2 Airport Express coupons.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Children Children (5-15) pay half the adult fare. Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket.
Other Notes Some commuter services do not have First Class; this has been considered in the price.
Ideal for… Visitors staying in or around London and wanting to make day trips to attractions such as Canterbury, Cambridge, Oxford, Brighton, Dover, Hastings, Poole, Greenwich, Winchester and many more! Why not combine this pass with great add-ons like the new London Eye or Madame Tussauds & Chamber Live.
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3.6 BRITRAIL SCOTTISH FREEDOM PASS
Unlimited train travel in Scotland. Pass includes travel to/from Berwick upon Tweed and Carlisle. Also covers travel on Caledonian MacBrayne scheduled ferry services, as well as key bus links. Available in Adult Standard for 4 days within 8 days or 8 days within 15 days.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Children Children aged 5 -15 pay half the adult fare. Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket.
Other Notes 20% Discount on Northlink Ferry routes between Scrabster– Stromness and Aberdeen-Lerwick; and Aberdeen-Kirkwall-Lerwick
Valid on all Caledonian MacBrayne scheduled ferry services within Scotland. For full details of ferry times please contact 01475 650100 or www.calmac.co.uk
Pass valid on select bus services including Scottish Citylink services, Stagecoach in Fife bus services, First Edinburgh Bus Services, Highland Country Buses services and Bowman Coaches.
£1 discount off adult and concession prices on Edinburgh Bus Tour, and City Sightseeing tours in Glasgow and Stirling.
10% discount also available on Caledonian Sleeper Standard fares when traveling to and from Scotland to use your BritRail Scottish Freedom Pass.
The BritRail Scottish Freedom Pass may be validated at main stations within Scotland (Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh Waverly, Fort William, Glasgow Central & Queen Street, Inverness, Oban, Paisley Gilmour Street, Perth & Stirling).
Travel on ScotRail’s Caledonian Sleepers is not included.
BritRail Scottish Freedom Pass is not valid on special excursion trains, or privately owned railways.
Ideal for… Visitors wishing to explore Scotland and its islands in depth.
Passholders will not be allowed to travel before 9:15am Monday to Friday except between Glasgow-Oban/Fort William/Mallaig and Inverness-Kyle/Wick/Thurso and Glasgow – Lockerbie and Lockerbie – Carlisle.
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3.7 BRITRAIL CENTRAL SCOTLAND PASS
Using a Central Scotland Rover you can see some of the most famous spots in Scotland's central belt. Perfect for ‘days-out’ trips from Glasgow or Edinburgh, the BritRail Central Scotland Pass is the easiest way to discover Scotland.
Available in Adult Standard for 3 days within 1 week.
For prices, please refer to www.AgentACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Children Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket.
Other Notes Unlimited rail travel between Edinburgh, Glasgow Queen Street, North Berwick, Bathgate, Dunblane, Bridge of Allan, Stirling, Alloa, the Fife Circle, Markinch, Falkirk and all intermediate stations. Also valid between Edinburgh Waverley, Brunstane and Newcraighall.
Unlimited travel on Glasgow Underground (on presentation of a BritRail Central Scotland Pass, customers will be issued with an exchange ticket).
The BritRail Central Scotland Pass is not valid on services timed to depart before 0915 Monday to Friday.
The BritRail Central Scotland Pass is not valid on special excursion trains, privately owned railways or Glasgow Airport Coach Links.
The BritRail Central Scotland Pass is not valid between Glasgow Central and Edinburgh Waverley.
Ideal for… Visitors wishing to make days out trips from Edinburgh and Glasgow.
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BRITRAIL POINT TO POINT TICKETS
3.8 BRITRAIL OPEN POINT TO POINT TICKETS
Valid for travel between two selected stations. There are no restrictions as to day, time, or train. Tickets are valid for 2 months from the date of outward travel. Stopovers allowed en-route.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Children Age 5 -15 pay half the adult fare. Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket. Senior + Youth Europeans can benefit from a 20% discount
Other Notes Reservations are not compulsory but are recommended. They can be made when booking (normally available 3 months in advance of travel) or at stations when in Britain.
Group rates for groups of 10 or more available upon request. Please see page 4 for Help Desk contact details.
Point-to-Point Tickets must be validated within 6 months of issuing date. Once they are validated, they are valid for 2 months from that date.
Ideal for… Those who are not touring but have a specific journey to make, for example the business traveller.
FAQ Why buy in advance?
§ These tickets are intended for overseas visitors, they carry no restrictions as to time, day or availability. § Travel on any train on the route in question. § Stop-off as often as wished in the direction of travel. (On a London/Edinburgh BritRail Open Single, the client could stop at York, Durham and Newcastle.)
Are cheaper tickets available in the UK?
§ Sometimes, however, they are usually date, train/time restricted, non- changeable, subject to penalties, etc. § Many are valid only on certain train operating company services. § Many routes require advance local purchase.
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AIRPORT EXPRESS TRAINS
3.9 HEATHROW EXPRESS
Travel non-stop between Heathrow Airport and London Paddington Station. There are no restrictions as to time, day or train.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Children Age 5 -15 pay half the adult fare. Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket.
Other Notes The quickest way from Heathrow Airport to central London! Trains depart every 15 minutes and the journey takes just 15 minutes. Heathrow Express serves all five terminals at Heathrow Airport with one station for Terminals 1, 2, and 3 and a separate one for Terminal 4 and for Terminal 5.
Ideal for… All airport travellers going to London. Paddington Station offers a variety of Underground and mainline rail connections, local and long distance buses and of course, easy access to taxis.
3.10 GATWICK EXPRESS
Travel non-stop between Gatwick Airport and London Victoria Station. There are no restrictions as to time, day or train.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Children Age 5 -15 pay half the adult fare. Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket.
Other Notes Gatwick Express is the fastest way to travel from Gatwick Airport to central London - the 27 miles are covered in just 30 minutes. Trains leave every 15 minutes from London Victoria and Gatwick Airport throughout the day and evening. Gatwick Airport Station is actually part of Gatwick Airport. There are no long corridors to walk through and it is nearer than the buses and taxis.
Ideal for… All airport travellers going to London. London Victoria station is in London’s West End and offers a variety of Underground and mainline rail connections, local and long distance buses and of course, easy access to taxis.
3.11 STANSTED EXPRESS
Travel non-stop between London Stansted Airport and London Liverpool St station. There are no restrictions as to time, day or train.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
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Children Age 5 -15 pay half the adult fare. Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket.
Other Notes Stansted Express trains take you directly from the Airport to London Liverpool Street Station in 42 minutes. Stansted Airport is also the starting point for a regular service that takes you cross country through Cambridge, Peterborough (for connections to York and Edinburgh), to Birmingham, Liverpool or Manchester.
Ideal for…. Direct travel to the City of London (business district around Liverpool Street or London’s West End, change at Tottenham Hale onto the Victoria line underground line).
3.12 LUTON AIRPORT TRANSFER
Travel non-stop between Central London (Blackriars, Farringdon, and Kings Cross Thameslink to London Luton Airport There are no restrictions as to time, day or train.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Children Age 5 -15 pay half the adult fare. Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket.
Other Notes: Trains take you directly from the Airport station to London Kings Cross Thameslink Station and stations to the South Coast in 45 minutes. Luton Airport is also the starting point for a regular service that takes you to Nottingham, Leicester, Derby, Sheffield and Leeds. The airport station is a short free shuttle bus ride from the airport terminal.
Ideal for…. Direct travel to the City of London.
3.13 MANCHESTER AIRPORT TO MANCHESTER
Travel non-stop the short journey between Manchester Airport and Central Manchester. Direct trains are also available to Liverpool, Leeds, York, Blackpool, Windermere and Newcastle. Details and prices available upon request.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Ideal for…. Direct travel to the City of Manchester and direct onwards to many other North West and North East England destinations
3.14 BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT TO BIRMINGHAM
Travel non-stop between Birmingham Airport and Central Birmingham. An ultra modern monorail takes you the short distance from the airport terminal to the station where direct trains take you to Birmingham in around 10 minutes. Direct connections are also available to London, Oxford and local station in the West Midlands. Details and prices available upon request.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Ideal for…. Direct travel to the City of Birmingham and direct onwards to many other North West destinations.
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BRITRAIL TRAVEL EXTRAS
3.15 CALEDONIAN SLEEPERS
Ride overnight between London Euston & cities in Scotland and arrive the following morning in the heart of the Highlands or the centre of the city. Save the cost of a night’s hotel and sleep in the luxury of one of our sleepers. Special inclusive fares for sleeper train service to and from Scotland. Available in 1st and Standard class one way and round trip. Fare includes rail ticket and sleeper reservation supplement.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Routes Sleepers depart from London and head to Carlisle, Edinburgh or Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee, Ft. William or Inverness
Children Children (5-15) pay half the adult fare. Children under 5 travel free. No 1st Class Child Discount.
Other Notes Single and twin berth cabins are available. Cabins are equipped with bed, blankets and clean cotton sheets, air conditioning and bedside lighting. Wash basin with shaver point and hand towel also included. All berths are non-smoking. Single travellers may have to share with someone of the opposite sex.
Ideal for… Travellers going to Scotland who do not want to spend daytime hours travelling.
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3.16 EUROSTAR
A) Discount on Eurostar BritRail offers discounted pass holder rates for travel on Eurostar trains through the Channel Tunnel to Paris or Brussels. Trains leave from London or Ashford. A London-Calais route through the Channel Tunnel is also available.
B) Eurostar on Request For prices and details, contact the North American Call Center at 1-866-BritRail or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
3.17 LONDON VISITOR TRAVELCARD
Please note that this product is now a voucher, available for pre-purchase via the North American call center, www.Agent.ACPRail.com and select sales outlets.
Unlimited travel on the London Underground and Bus network, within either the Central Zone (Zones 1 and 2) or All Zones (Zones 1 - 6) including the Piccadilly Line to London Heathrow Airport.
o Choice of 3 or 7-day travel cards available for the Central Zone (1 & 2). o 3 day Travelcards are available Anytime Day* or Off-Peak* Day o The All Zone card is available for 7-days only. o Fares available for adult or child
Children Age 5 –15 pay reduced rate. Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket.
*Other Notes Off-Peak Travel is on weekends and after 9:30am Monday to Friday. Anytime Day can be used all day on each day of validity.
Travelcards are valid for travel on: · Tube, DLR, London Overground services. · Bus services within Greater London area · Tram services where your Travelcard includes Zone 3, 4, 5 or 6 · National Rail services (excluding Heathrow Connect between Hayes & Harlington and Heathrow, and on Heathrow Express) · Scheduled Riverboat services at 1/3 off the normal fare.
Validation To exchange a London Visitor TravelCard voucher: present the voucher at a National Rail Station Ticket Office in London to receive a dated TravelCard.
Ideal for…Anyone visiting London – remember a single journey for one stop in the Central Zone is £4.
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3.18 OYSTER CARD
Please note that this product is available for pre-purchase via the North American call center, www.Agent.ACPRail.com and select sales outlets.
The amazingly flexible Oyster card provides access to the majority of London’s transport services. Ride the Tube, Docklands Light Railway, bus and tram, and some National Rail services all with this one amazing card.
Pre-loaded with £15 of pay as you go value: ready to use, so no need to queue up at the airport or station.
Provides travel on DLR, the Tube, London Overground, buses and trams in London. Only pay for the travel that you make.
No date restrictions on pay as you go balance.
Reusable, you simply add value to your card the next time you visit London.
Transferable, you can pass your card on to friends/family who visit London.
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3.19 CITY SIGHTSEEING BUS TOURS
City sightseeing City Sightseeing now operates in many tourist towns and cities in Britain. With distinctive buses and friendly staff, the choice in selected cities between multi-lingual commentary or live guide, an exclusive Kids Commentary in some destinations, sightseeing has never been so muc h fun!
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Children Ages 5-15 pay reduced rate. Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket.
Ideal for… Clients with a BritRail Pass. Travellers are taken to the main tourist attractions and can hop off to explore them further, then can simply hop on a later bus. Saves walking and offers educational commentary too!
Cities Available include: Aberdeen, Bath, Belfast, Brighton, Bristol, Cambridge, Cardiff, Chester, Colchester, Eastbourne, Edinburgh, Felixstowe, Glasgow, Great Yarmouth, Inverness, Ipswich, Liverpool, Llandudno, London, Manchester, Newcastle Gateshead, Newport, Norwich, Oxford, Stirling, Stratford-upon-Avon, Windsor & Eton, York * No longer includes Stonehenge.
The following tours have seasonal operations: Aberdeen, Brighton, Bristol, Cardiff, Chester, Colchester, Eastbourne, Felixstowe, Great Yarmouth, Inverness, Ipswich, Liverpool, Llandudno, Manchester, Newcastle, Newport, Norwich, Stirling and Windsor & Eton.
Unless otherwise stated: · Tickets are valid for one day · Adults are 23 to 59 years of age · Senior citizens are 60+ years of age · Students are 16 to 22 years of age · Family tickets are for 2 adults and up to 3 children
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3.20 RAILTOURS IRELAND
A wide range of tours throughout Ireland, departing from Dublin for one day or half a day. Includes reserved seats on InterCity rail services, most with full dining facilities and qualified driver/guides where necessary.
Tour DH02 Cork, Blarney Castle and the Queenstown Story
Travel to Ireland's scenic Southern capital, Cork, visiting the world renowned Blarney Stone and the Queenstown Story at Cobh, on Cork Harbour, famous as the Titanic's last port of call.
Tour DH04 Connemara and Galway Bay
Savour a trip to the glorious West of Ireland where John Ford filmed "The Quiet Man". Arrive through Galway (the City of the Tribes), see Clifden (the Capital of Connemara) Kylemore Abbey and explore Connemara which means "inlets of the sea".
Tour DH05 The Ring of Kerry
Take in an all day tour offering a unique opportunity to experience the world renowned Ring of Kerry, with its overwhelming mountains and seascapes.
Tour DH06 The Cliffs of Moher, Burren and Galway Bay
Embark on a day trip to Ireland's rugged and unique mid-western coast, through Limerick on the mighty River Shannon and on then to the imposing Bunratty Castle with its lovely folk park. Don’t miss the stunning Cliffs of Moher, the Burren and Galway Bay. A flavour of Galway City concludes the tour before your return to Dublin.
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Tour DC08 The Wicklow Mountaineer, Ballykissangel (Avoca) and Glendalough
Indulge in a lovely half-day tour into the Wicklow Mountains to visit Ireland's most famous village, Avoca, otherwise known as "Ballykissangel" situated in the beautiful Vale of Avoca. While there, visit the magnificent Glendalough (valley of the two lakes).
Tour DC10 The Giant’s Causeway Glens of Antrim and Wild Atlantic Coast
Depart Dublin for a fascinating day out to the famed Antrim coast with its spectacular seascapes taking in the Giant's Causeway and Dunluce Castle.
Tour DH11 The Aran Islands in Galway Bay
Don’t pass up this unique opportunity to visit Inishmore, the largest of the legendary Aran Islands facing the wild Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of Galway Bay. Tour includes train and airplane journey.
Tour DC12 Mystery Railtour
Venture into the unknown with this half day tour showcasing some of Ireland's loveliest countryside, possibly visiting an inland town or coastal village, a magnificent castle, mountain scenery or gentle rolling hills - you won't be disappointed.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Children Half price for children 5-15 yrs. Children under 5 travel free and do not need a ticket.
Other Notes No departures on Sundays and Bank Holidays including St. Patrick’s day. All tours depart from Dublin.
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3.21 GOLDEN TOURS
Golden Tours is London's leading Sightseeing Company and is part of the Gray Line Worldwide association. Offering a wide range of sightseeing bus and rail tours daily including full day or half day, evening tours, cruises, Paris by Eurostar and many more.
Tour-1 Historic and Modern London
Tour-16B Best of The Cotswolds & Blenheim Palace
Tour-200 Total London Experience
Tour-203 Windsor, Bath and Stonehenge
Tour-6 Oxford, Stratford & Warwick Castle
Tour-7 Stratford, Oxford, The Cotswolds and Cream Tea
Tour-8 Bath, Stonehenge & Salisbury
Tour-84 Free & Easy Day Trip to Paris (Standard Class)
Tour-86 Escorted Day Trip, Simply Paris (Standard Class)
Tour-88 Escorted Day Trip The Splendour of Paris (Standard Class)
3.22 BATEAUX LONDON & CITY CRUISES
Bateaux London London’s leading operator of Thames restaurant cruises offering lunch and dinner cruises and private charters on the River Thames. This cruise offers a luxury event with 5-star customer care while taking in the most scenic views of London. Taking this cruise is a pleasant way to spend an afternoon or evening while in the heart of London. Available in Adult Classic Lunch or Classic Dinner and Child Classic Lunch.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Terms and Conditions: · Schedules and services are subject to change. · Voucher is valid for only the product shown. · Tickets and boarding from Embankment Pier will only be permitted on presentation of a valid voucher. · Vouchers cannot be exchanged for cash or alternative value. · Passengers must reserve in advance. · Passengers must arrive at least 15 minutes before sailing time.
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· Children under 12 are not allowed on board dinner cruises. · Dress Code for dinner: no jeans or training shoes. · No refunds or alternatives for failure to board a vessel. · Smoking restrictions apply. · For reservations and further information please contact +44 (0) 20 7987 1185 for timetable and more information.
City Cruises A leisurely cruise down the River Thames is a great way to see London. Trips from 20 minutes to three hours or hop-on, hop-off all day long. Available in Adult, Child or Family rates.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Terms and Conditions: · Cruises depart frequently from Westminster Pier, Waterloo (London Eye) Pier, Tower Pier and Greenwich Pier. · Children under 5 travel free when accompanying a full paying adult · Family tickets available for use by up to 2 adults and 3 children (aged 5-16) · Vouchers cannot be exchanged for cash or alternative value.
3.23 GREAT BRITISH HERITAGE PASS*
Britain contains a vibrant history, from the legend of King Arthur and the Holy Grail to the mystery of Stonehenge. There is a wealth of places to visit in Britain. Take a journey exploring magnificent castles, ancient fortresses, idyllic gardens, mysterious monuments, opulent royal residences, and historic stately homes. Available in 4,7,15 days or 1 month in Adult or Family rates.
§ FREE ENTRY to nearly 600 attractions in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland including:
-Stonehenge -Edinburgh Castle -Palace of Holyrood House -Roman Baths and Pump Room -Shakespeare’s Birthplace -Warwick Castle -Leeds Castle -Chatsworth
§ FREE 40 page guidebook and map of Great Britain upon exchange of voucher.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Notes This pass is non-refundable/non-returnable once purchased and there are no discounts for seniors, children or youths.
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Properties include Hampton Court Palace, Shakespeare’s birthplace, Stonehenge, Warwick Castle and Windsor Castle. A souvenir gazetteer listing all of the properties with opening times and maps showing the locations is given to customers.
Resources www.2gbhp.com – for Travel agents Please visit the Agents Resource Site for the complete guide to selling the GBHP with downloadable options.
Validation Vouchers can be validated at The Britain and London Visitor Centre, 1 Regent Street, Piccadilly, London. Open every day. Nearest tube: Piccadilly Circus, located 200 yards away. Other validation points include: VisitScotland Glasgow Information Centre, Manchester Visitor Centre, York Visitor Information Centre, Stratford-upon Avon Tourist Information Centre, Dover Visitor Information Centre, Leeds Tourist Information Centre, Edinburgh & Scotland Tourist Information Centre.
IMPORTANT Some properties are closed between the end of October and March/April
Ideal for… Clients wishing to visit historic attractions and gardens, many of which are easily accessible from rail stations.
Please note that this product is commissionable at www.Agent.ACPRail.com
3.24 ENGLISH HERITAGE OVERSEAS VISITOR PASS*
This pass gives unlimited free entry to over 120 of England’s finest castles, abbeys, Roman remains, and prehistoric monuments. Some of the attractions include Stonehenge, Carlisle Castle, and Down House, the home of Charles Darwin. Available in 7 or 14 days in Adult, 2 Adult or Family rates.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Note: If you require additional information please visit www.english-heritage.org.uk .
Children Children under 5 do not require a pass.
Other Notes Pass holder receives complimentary colour souvenir guidebook and a comprehensive visitor map upon exchange of voucher. This pass is not open to UK residents. Pass is validated at first property visited.
Validation Vouchers can be validated at any staffed English Heritage Property, during normal opening hours, and ask them to exchange it for the English Heritage Overseas Visitor Pass.
Please note that this product is commissionable at www.Agent.ACPRail.com
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3.25 HISTORIC ROYAL PALACES PASS*
Visit the most magnificent Royal palaces and buildings in London with the help of the all in one pass. Properties include the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace, Banqueting House and the Kew Palace.
Choose from any of the 3 following pass options:
4 Palace Pass includes access to Hampton Court Palace, Tower of London, Kensington Palace and the Banqueting House. 3 Palace Pass includes access to Hampton Court Palace, Tower of London, and Kensington Palace. Central London Pass includes access to Tower of London, Kensington Palace and the Banqueting House. Henry Royal Pass The Henry Royal Pass provides entry to the following Historic Royal Palaces: Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace Banqueting House. New pass available March 1st, 2009.
All 4 passes are available in Adult or Child rates.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Validation Vouchers can be validated at Tower of London, Tower Hill, London, EC3N 4AB, Phone: +44 20 7709 0765
Please note that this product is commissionable at www.Agent.ACPRail.com
3.26 LONDON SIGHTSEEING PASS*
Discover the joy of Unlimited Sightseeing with award Winning Tourist Card for London. Available in 1, 2, 3, 6 days in Adult or Child rates.
§ FREE entry to over 50 London Attractions – including the Tower of London, St-Paul’s Cathedral, Kensington Palace, Windsor Castle, Cruise on the River Thames, London Aquarium, Chelsea FC Stadium Tour, Hampton Court Palace, Britain at War Experience, Sherlock Holmes Museum and many more…
§ FREE 160 page colour guide book, containing information about opening times, maps and directions to every Tourist Attraction, Shop and restaurant participating in the Pass upon exchange of voucher.
§ No queues/Skip the lines – London Sightseeing Pass holders are entitled to fast Track entry skipping the ticket lines.
§ Leisure Time FREE entry to movies at selected Cinemas, Ice Skating, bowling, and Namco Pleasuredome.
Customers receive a Redemption Voucher, which they exchange for the London Sightseeing Pass and Guidebook on presentation of the voucher at: The Britain and London Visitor Centre, 1 Regent Street, Piccadilly, London. Open every day. Nearest tube: Piccadilly Circus, located 200 yards away.
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For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Website www.londonpass.com
Please note that this product is commissionable at www.Agent.ACPRail.com
3.27 YORKSHIRE PASS* NEWLY NAMED APRIL 2010
Gives free entrance to more than 30 of York’s most popular attractions including York Minster, The National Railway Museum and York Dungeon. The pass also offers special offers and discounts for various restaurants and shops in York. Available in 1, 2, 3 or 6 days in Adult or Child rates.
The 6 Day Yorkshire Pass includes 8 more attractions making the pass even better value.
The customer is given a voucher, which can be exchanged for a smartcard pass. The customer will receive a high quality guide book when they exchange their voucher at the York Tourism Information Centre, giving detailed information about each attraction.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Note: For more information please visit www.yorkpass.com * Please note that this product is commissionable through www.Agent.ACPRail.com
3.28 DUBLIN PASS*
Gives free entrance to over 30 of Dublin’s most popular attractions including the Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol and Malahide Castle. You can also take advantage of free travel on the AirCoach between the Airport and the City Centre as well as special offers and discounts. Available in 2, 3 or 6 days in Adult or Child fares.
The customer is given a voucher, which can be exchanged at Dublin Tourist Information offices at Dublin International Airport or Dublin Tourism Centre, Suffolk Street, Dublin 2 for a smartcard pass. The customer will receive a high quality guide book when they exchange their voucher, giving detailed information about each attraction.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet.
Note: For more information please visit www.dublinpass.ie or email [email protected].
Please note that this product is commissionable through www.Agent.ACPRail.com
3.29 EDINBURGH PASS*
Gives free entrance to 27 of Edinburgh’s top attractions including The Edinburgh Dungeon, Glenkinchie Distillery and The Georgian House. Pass also includes airport transfer and unlimited bus travel as well as exclusive offers from some of Edinburgh’s best retailers, restaurants, festival and leisure providers. Available in 2 or 3 days in Adult fares.
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Customer receives a voucher to be exchanged at The Edinburgh and Scotland Tourist Information Centre in Prince’s Street upon arrival in Edinburgh. The customer also receives a 90- page guidebook listing everything the Edinburgh Pass has to offer as well as tourist information, area maps and bus routes.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International Sales Outlet.
Note: for more information please visit www.edinburgh.org/pass
Please note that this product is commissionable through www.Agent.ACPRail.com
3.30 BRITRAIL IRISH SEA CROSSING
Stena Line offers quick and comfortable ferry service between Ireland and Britain. With an unrivalled choice of routes on the Irish Sea, taking the ferry to Ireland has never been so easy! Available in Adult Economy class.
Routes Available · Stranraer – Belfast · Holyhead - Dun Laoghaire · Fishguard - Rosslare
Excellent range of entertainment provided, including shopping, restaurants and bars. Activities are ‘Family Friendly’.
3.31 THE ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA
This magnificent ship has played host to some of the most famous people in the world, including Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family. Now you are welcome on board to discover the heart and soul of this most special of royal residences. Available in Adult, Student, Senior, Child and Family Passes. Includes audio tour available in 21 languages.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International Sales Outlet.
3.32 BEATLES STORY
Located on Liverpool’s historic Albert Dock, the Beatles Story is a unique attraction that transports visitors on an enlightening and atmospheric journey into the life, times, culture and music of the Beatles. Available in Adult, Senior/Student, and Child rates.
The experience is accompanied by the ‘Living History’ audio guide, which is narrated by John Lennon’s sister, Julia. The Beatles Story offers English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Chinese and Japanese audio guide translations.
Key Highlights include:
John Lennon's iconic round spectacles George Harrison's first ever guitar The world's only 'blue' White Album A never before heard interview with Paul McCartney
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The emotional and evocative White Room
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International Sales Outlet.
3.33 LONDON DUNGEON
The London Dungeon uses live actors, shows, rides and interactive special effects to take you on a unique journey through the capital’s most horrible history. Ninety minutes of thrills and chills includes two scary rides that will leave you screaming for more!
The London Dungeon is open 7 days a week, all year except Christmas Day. Rates for adults 16+, children 5 – 15 and students who hold a valid student ID.
For prices, please refer to www.Agent.ACPRail.com, or an authorized ACP Rail International Sales Outlet.
BRITRAIL SEAT & SLEEPER RESERVATIONS
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3.34 SEAT RESERVATIONS SEAT RESERVATIONS are available per person per train for a nominal fee. Please visit www.Agent.ACPRail.com, an authorized ACP Rail International sales outlet or call 1-866- BRITRAIL for more information.
3.35 SLEEPER RESERVATIONS & SERVICES
SLEEPER SUPPLEMENTS are per person and available in First or Standard Class. Please visit www.Agent.ACPRail.com or call 1-866-BRITRAIL for more information
Sleepers leave London Euston station Sunday to Friday nights with services to Edinburgh, Glasgow and most major stations on the routes to Inverness, Aberdeen and Fort William (Caledonian Sleepers). Sleepers also operate from London Paddington to Plymouth and main stations through Cornwall to Penzance (Night Riviera).
They are great way to cover a large distance whilst getting a night’s rest, and saving a night’s hotel cost. Sleepers are air-conditioned and have a wash basin. First Class is single berths and Standard Class is dual occupancy. A light breakfast is served.
To travel in sleepers, an all inclusive Caledonian Sleepers ticket must be purchased (for Scotland services) or a supplement in addition to a BritRail Pass or point-to-point ticket.
3.36 BRITRAIL TEAMS WITH HERITAGE RAILWAYS
BritRail in conjunction with the Heritage Railways Association (HRA) is offering up to 20% off the admission of many HRA’s railways all over the U.K. Take a ride on many turn
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of the century steam locomotives or learn about the history of these storied railways. Don’t miss out on this special offer!
For a list of participating railways or more information visit www.heritagerailways.com
Present any BritRail Pass and receive the under mentioned discount off admission to the associated Railway.
Railway Discount Nearest National Network Station ENGLAND Avon Valley Railway 20% Keynsham Bodmin & Wenford Railway 20% BodminParkway Bure Valley Railway 20% Wroxham Dartmoor Railway 20% Crediton (A) Dean Forest Railway 20% Lydney East Anglia Railway Museum 20% Chappel & Wakes Colne East Lancashire Railway 20% Bury (B) Embsay Steam Railway 20% Skipton Great Central Railway 20% Loughborough Isle of Wight Steam Railway (F) Portsmouth Harbour then Ferry for Ryde to Smallbrook Jct. Keighley & Worth Valley (C) Keighley Railway Leighton Buzzard Railway 20% Leighton Buzzard Midland Railway Centre 20% Derby Nene Valley Railway 20% Peterborough North Norfolk Railway 20% Sheringham North Yorkshire Moors Rly 20% Grosmont Ravenglass & Eskdale 20% Ravenglass Railway Romney Hythe & Dymchurch 20% Folkestone Railway Severn Valley Railway (D) Kidderminster Swanage Railway 25% Wareham West Somerset Railway (D) Taunton SCOTLAND Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway 20% Linlithgow Keith & Dufftown Railway 20% Keith Junction WALES Ffestiniog Railway 20% Porthmadog Welsh Highland Railway E(1) 20% Bangor Great Orme Tramway 20% Llandudno Llangollen Railway 20% Ruabon Welsh Highland Railway E(2) 20% Porthmadog Welshpool & Llanfair Railway 20% Welshpool
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NOTES: A - Through trains from Exeter St. Davids on Summer Sundays. B - Metrolink from Manchester(Piccadilly and Victoria Stations). C - Discount fares - £2 off Day Rover Tickets or £1 off full return fare. D - Discount of £2 off adult fare for full return journey. E - Welsh Highland Railway (1) at Caernarfon and (2) Porthmadog.
EXCLUSIONS: F- Will include Wine & Dine Specials, “Thomas” events, Christmas.
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Why Should I Buy a BritRail Pass?
BritRail Passes must be bought before arrival in the UK and are only available to those who do not reside in the United Kingdom. This section is designed to help decide which product is right for the client.
IMPORTANT: Citizens of the UK residing overseas are eligible to purchase a BritRail Pass
OUR ADVICE…
A BritRail Pass can be absolutely invaluable. It can save the client a substantial amount of money It is flexible and can be used on any train in Britain
BUT FIRST, WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES?
§ If the client wants to travel by train but does not buy a BritRail Pass in advance, point-to- point tickets can be purchased at the time of travel in the UK.
§ There are some cheap fares on offer, however, the best fares frequently require advance purchase (up to 14 days), compulsory seat reservation and there are limits on the number of tickets available for a specific train.
§ ‘Saver Fares’ can be bought at the time of travel. While they do not have quotas, they cannot normally be used at peak times of the day. Passengers will be charged the full fare if they travel on restricted trains, which tend to be in the mornings and evening rush hour periods. Stopovers en route are not allowed.
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IS A BRITRAIL PASS RIGHT FOR MY CLIENTS?
Begin by asking the client these questions:
§ Will you be making two or more fairly long journeys? § Will you be making a circular tour(s)? § Do you wish to have the flexibility to travel on any train? § Will you be making several short journeys? § Will you be travelling in peak periods – in the mornings or evenings? § Are you likely to want to travel on Friday? § Do you wish to have the flexibility to hop off at stations en route and plan as you go? § Are you going from London to Scotland? § Are you confident about buying rail tickets in English? § Do you want hassle free travel with no queuing for tickets?
If the answer is ‘Yes’ to one or more of these questions a BritRail Pass is suitable. If one journey is being made, then an Open Point to Point is best. BritRail Open Point to Point tickets offer reductions on round trips in both First and Standard class. And of course, all BritRail tickets can be used on any train.
WHY BUY A FIRST CLASS PASS?
If the clients want to travel in First Class, and we recommend that they do, then a Pass is almost certain to be the best bet. Tickets for First Class in Britain tend to be expensive and are mostly designed for the business traveller. First Class BritRail Pass prices offer more affordable First Class travel.
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WHAT IS THE DIFFERENC E BETWEEN FIRST AND STANDARD CLASS IN BRITAIN?
§ First Class has larger seats, more space both for your client and their luggage. § First Class carriages are usually less busy and offer a quieter atmosphere. § On many routes First Class offers extras, including free tea and coffee. Some routes even offer free snacks and newspapers. Certain long haul routes have table or buffet service meal too. It is normally very good and comparable to airline’s first class. § The décor and ambiance is very pleasant – frequently leaving one disappointed that the train has arrived. § Some commuter routes radiating from the big cities have First Class accommodation, but please check before booking. Here the benefit is space for your client on busy rush hour trains. § First Class is usually at the London end of the platform (i.e. no long walk at the London terminal!).
DO ALL TRAINS HAVE FIRST CLASS?
No. However, most principle routes have First Class accommodation. Some rural routes, such as in Scotland and commuter routes into large cities (excluding London), offer Standard Class accommodation only. First Class Pass prices do reflect the fact that not all trains have First Class.
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SUGGESTED ROUTES AND PLANNING A TRIP
Clients with a BritRail Pass are free to choose where and when they wish to go. However, our experience indicates that customers need destinations/routes suggested to them. This section and the next Hub Cities and Scenic Routes are designed to help suggest routes for your clients to take and in which cities to base themselves, each selected with rail travel and touring in mind. Remember most of the interesting cities a tourist will want to see are easily accessible by rail.
These tours can be done over any length of time – the figures in () indicate the approximate rail journey time between stations in hours. Anything is possible with a BritRail Pass.
§ London Kings Cross to (1) Cambridge to (2.25) York to (2.75) Edinburgh to (3.5) Inverness to (3.5) Glasgow to (3.5) Windermere to (4) London Euston
§ London Kings Cross to (2) York to (2.5) Edinburgh to (1) Glasgow to (5.75) London Euston
§ London to (2) Norwich to (3) York to (2.5) Edinburgh to (5) London Euston
§ The Grand Tour – London to (2) York to (2.5) Edinburgh to (3.5) Inverness to (3.5) Glasgow to (3.5) Windermere to (3.75) Birmingham to (2) Bath to (5) Penzance to (3) Exeter to (1.75) Salisbury to (1.5) London
§ London to (1.5) Bath to (1) Cardiff to (3.25) Chester to (1) Manchester to (1.5) York to (2) London
§ London to (1.5) Portsmouth to (1.25) Salisbury to (1) Bath to (2) Birmingham to (4.5) Glasgow to (1) Edinburgh to (2.5) York to (2) London
§ A trip to Ireland and Wales – London to (2.5) Chester to (1.75) Holyhead for the HSS (Slow Ferry) to (1.75) Dublin/Dun Laoghaire to (3.25) Rosslare for (2.5) Ferry to (3.75) Fishguard in Wales to (2.5) Cardiff to (2) London
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GETTING TRAIN TIMES
Before departure: Detailed up to the minute train times can be obtained from the timetable section of the web site www.Agent.ACPRail.com. This is an excellent planning tool! Alternatively, please visit www.nationalrail.co.uk as another source of info.
In the UK: All stations have departure sheets and manned stations have timetable assistance, including route timetables – once in the UK travellers can call 08457 48 49 50 at any time of the day or night, from anywhere for the price of a local call!
The National Rail Timetable is available for purchase in the UK. It contains information on all scheduled rail services in Great Britain. It is, however, large and cumbersome. A slightly smaller ‘ABC Rail Guide’ is also available for purchase whilst in the UK.
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SUGGESTED ‘HUB’ CITIES AND SHORT TRIPS
Apart from the tours suggested above, another excellent way to tour Britain is to stay in hub cities for several days and make day trips out from the hub. This avoids constantly travelling with luggage and having to repack every night. The fast and frequent ‘go as you please’ BritRail network makes this very relaxing and practical.
Full day and half day trips by rail are easily done to many of the following places:
Short trips from THE Hub city - London Destination Journey Time Frequency* Departure Station Bath 1 hour 20 min Every 30 mins Paddington Birmingham 1 hour 21 min Every 30 mins Euston Brighton 50 mins Every 30 mins Victoria Brighton 50 mins Hourly Bridge Dover 1 hour 40 min Every 30 mins Victoria/London Bridge/Charing Cross Ely 1 hour Hourly Kings Cross Exeter 2 hour 40 min Every 30mins Paddington / Waterloo Cambridge 1 hour Hourly Kings Cross Canterbury 1 ½ hours 2 per hour Victoria Hastings 1 ½ hours Hourly Bridge Isle of Wight 2 hours Every 30 mins Waterloo- change to ferry Manchester 2 hours 6 mins Every 30 mins Euston Norwich 1 hour 50 min Every 30 mins Liverpool St Portsmouth 1 ½ hours Every 30 mins Waterloo Oxford 1 hour Every 30 mins Paddington Salisbury 1 hour 25 min Every 30 mins Waterloo Southampton 1 ¼ hours 3 per hour Waterloo Stratford Upon 2 ¼ hours Every 2 hours Marlyboune Avon * Minimum frequency
Other ‘Hub’ Cities Short Trips From York Destination Journey Time Frequency Harrogate or Knaresborough 30 minutes Hourly Leeds 30 minutes 4 or 5 per hour Durham 50 minutes At least 2 per hour Scarborough 45 minutes Every 30 mins Settle & Carlisle Line, Full Day Trip Every 2 hours Newcastle Manchester 1 ½ hrs 2 or 3 per hour Hebden Bridge 1 ½ hrs Hourly
Short Trips From Edinburgh Destination Journey Time Frequency Glasgow 50 minutes Every 15 mins Stirling 50 minutes Every 30 mins Perth 50 minutes Hourly Oban 4 hours 4 per day Aberdeen 2 ½ hours Hourly
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Short Trips From Glasgow Destination Journey Time Frequency Stirling 45 minutes Every 30 mins Q Perth 1 hour Hourly Q Oban 3 hours 3 per day Q Fort William 3 ¾ hours 4 per day Q Edinburgh 50 minutes Every 15 mins Q Ayr 1 hour 2 per hour C Inverness 3 ½ hours Every 2 hr approx Q Q = Glasgow Queen Street Station C = Glasgow Central Station
Short Trips From Inverness Destination Journey Time Frequency Kyle of Lochalsh 2 ½ hours 3 per day Wick/Thurso 4 hours 3 per day Aberdeen 2 ¼ hours Every 2 hrs approx
Short Trips From Chester Destination Journey Time Frequency Manchester 1 hour Hourly Liverpool 35 minutes Every 30 mins Llandudno 1 ¼ minutes Hourly Conwy 1 ½ hours Hourly Central Wales Line Full Day 3 Daily Shrewsbury 1 hour Hourly Blaenau Ffestiniog 2 hours Every 3 hours
Short Trips From Cardiff Destination Journey Time Frequency Caerphilly 20 minutes 2 or 3 trains hourly Trehafod 30 minutes 2 trains hourly Pembroke, Tenby 3 hours Every 2 hours Shrewsbury (Abergavenny, 2 hours (35min, 1 hour) Hourly Hereford) Llandrindod Wells 3 hours 6 trains daily Bath Spa 1 hour 1 or 2 trains hourly
Short Trips From Manchester Destination Journey Time Frequency Liverpool 50 minutes 4 per hour B London 2 hours 20 minutes 2 per hour P Chester 1 hour Hourly P Windermere (Lake District) 1 ¾ hours Hourly P Blackpool 1 ¼ hours 2 per hour P York 1 ½ hours 3 per hour P Llandudno (North Wales Coast) 2 ¼ hours Hourly P Buxton (Peak District) 55 minutes Hourly P B = Both Manchester Victoria and Piccadilly P = Manchester Piccadilly
Short Trips From Norwich Destination Journey Time Frequency Sheringham / Cromer (N 1 hour Hourly Norfolk) Lowestoft 40 minutes Hourly
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Great Yarmouth 30 minutes Hourly Cambridge (or Ely) 1 ½ hours (50 min) 2 per hour
Short Trips From Shrewsbury Destination Journey Time Frequency Cardiff 2 hours Hourly Aberystwth 1 ¾ hours 5 per day Harlech/Ffestiniog/Pwhelli 2 ¾ hours to 3 ½ hours Every 2 hours Chester 1 hour Every 1 or 2 hours
Short Trips From Birmingham Destination Journey Time Frequency London 1 hour 21 minutes 2 per hour Hereford 1 ½ hours Hourly N Cheltenham 45 minutes 2 per hour N Cardiff 2 hours 3 per hour N Stratford upon Avon 50 minutes Hourly S or M Worcester 55 minutes 2 per hour All Stamford 1 hour 40 minutes Hourly N Shrewsbury 1 hour Every 30 minutes N Warwick 35 minutes 2 per hour S or M M = Moor St Station, N = New Street Station S = Snow Hill Station
Short Trips From Exeter Destination Journey Time Frequency Exmouth 25 minutes Every 30 minutes Barnstaple 1 ¼ hours Every 2 hours Torquay / Paignton / Dawlish 45 minutes /45 minutes / 20 1 or 2 per hour minutes Salisbury 2 hours Every 2 hours Penzance 3 ¼ hours Hourly
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SCENIC RAIL ROUTES IN BRITAIN
There are many rail lines in Britain which are worth the trip just for the scenery. Below is a list of routes which should be traversed in daylight hours. Remember during the summer in Scotland daylight ends around 10 pm which gives you extra hours for touring! Travel times on these routes vary.
Scotland South East Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh Lewes to Hastings Inverness to Wick/Thurso Guildford to Havant Glasgow to Oban/Ft William and Mallaig Folkestone to Dover Perth to Inverness Hastings – Rye – Ashford International Glasgow to Stranraer Edinburgh to Dundee Newcastle to Edinburgh (Northumbria Coast)
North Country Wales Leeds to Carlisle via Settle Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth or Pwllheli Middlesborough to Whitby Llandudno to Blaenau Ffestiniog Manchester to Sheffield Shrewsbury to Swansea Newcastle to Carlisle Swansea to Pembroke Preston to Carlisle (Lake District) Cumbrian Coast Line
East Anglia & Central England West Country Norwich to Sheringham Exeter to Penzance Norwich/Ipswich to Lowestoft Liskeard to Looe Ely to Norwich Truro to Falmouth Oxford to Hereford St Erth to St Ives Bristol to Weymouth Salisbury to Exeter
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ARRIVING IN BRITAIN BY AIR
There are multitudes of different ways to get from an airport into town – listed below are the choices and views of when to take the various options for each airport.
London Heathrow
1. Heathrow Express - This is the quickest way to get from any Heathrow Terminal to central London. It runs every 15 minutes and takes just 15 minutes to London Paddington and London’s West End. A roundtrip journey is less expensive than a one-way taxi for 1 or 2 people. Once at London Paddington, there is a connecting coach service to the Marble Arch/Oxford Street area for £2. This coach meets each Heathrow Express train. Taxis & Taxi Share are also available at London Paddington station for onward travel. London Paddington station is also the London station serving Oxford, Bath, Bristol, South Wales and Devon & Cornwall.
Hours: Heathrow Express operates from Heathrow from 0507 to 0001 daily.
2. London Underground - The Tube: This is the cheapest way to travel into London from Heathrow and is included in a London Visitor Travelcard. Heathrow Airport is on the Piccadilly line which serves the West End Euston and Kings Cross Stations. If cost is an issue and your client is travelling with little luggage this is your best bet. The Tube can be busy, but getting on at Heathrow means that you will in any case get a seat! The journey time from Heathrow to Central London/Kings Cross or Euston is about 1 hour.
3. Taxis - At first, taxis may appear to be the most convenient for travel to and from the airport. However, they are costly (£30-£50) and can be slow, especially during morning rush hour into London and out in the evening. Travel time can vary and may take well over an hour to get to central London. Tip: If the client is normally a ‘taxi person’ then give Heathrow Express a try – chances are they’ll prefer it.
4. Heading West - Finally, if you are heading to Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Cornwall or Devon, it is suggested that you avoid London altogether. Take the dedicated Rail Air Link coach from Heathrow Terminals to Reading Rail Station. At Reading, there are a lot of services to the West Country and Wales. It is little known but true that by using this service it can be a much better way to get to Birmingham too. Not only is it quicker, but it is easier, with no cross London transfer. Just hop off the regular coach at Reading onto a Birmingham bound train. A ticket can be purchased for this service from the coach driver (cost approx £7). It is not included in a BritRail Pass.
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London Gatwick
1. It is simple really – take the train. Following railway privatisation there are 3 companies which provide service between Gatwick and Central London
§ Gatwick Express: dedicated link departs every 15 minutes with a 30 minute journey time. Hours of operation – From Gatwick: ¼ hourly service begins at 0550 until 0050, then hourly From Victoria: ¼ hourly service begins at 0500 until midnight, then hourly.
§ Southern: commuter service that also runs to London Victoria. As it makes stops en route the service takes a little longer.
§ Thameslink – commuter service between Gatwick and London Kings Cross Thameslink Station which is about 200 yards from Kings Cross mainline terminal. Service operates approximately every 30 minutes. This service is best if you are going directly to Kings Cross for trains to Scotland. This route helps to avoid a tube/taxi transfer.
2. Taxis from Gatwick to Central London can be long and expensive. Gatwick Airport is 27 miles south of London.
Note! Validated BritRail Consecutive, Flexi & England Passes are valid on any train!
3. Travelling from Gatwick directly to the West Country or South Wales it is suggested that the Gatwick to Reading rail service is used. It runs frequently (at least hourly), avoids a cross London transfer and is usually faster. Connections are available at Reading into services which originate at London Paddington.
4. Heading south from Gatwick, trains go directly to coastal towns such as Brighton, Eastbourne and many others.
London Stansted
Stansted Express trains run directly from the Airport to London Liverpool Street Station in 42 minutes. Stansted Airport is also the starting point for a regular service that runs cross country through Cambridge, Peterborough (for connections to York and Edinburgh), to Birmingham, Liverpool or Manchester.
London Luton
Travel non-stop between Luton Airport and London (Blackfriars, Farringdon, and Kings Cross Thameslink.
Trains every 15 minutes run directly from the Airport station to London Kings Cross Thameslink Station in 45 minutes. Service also runs every 15 minutes from Luton Airport to the East Midlands including Nottingham, Leicester, Derby, Sheffield and Leeds. The Airport station is a short free bus ride from the airport terminal.
Birmingham Airport
Birmingham International has its own rail station on the main London to Birmingham rail route. Birmingham New Street Station, right in the heart of Birmingham can be reached easily in 10 minutes. London Euston is only 1 hour and 20 minutes away. Trains run at half hourly intervals in both directions for most of the day (hourly on Sundays).
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Manchester Airport
The rail station is part of the airport buildings, and has great rail connections. Apart from a quick and frequent service to Manchester itself, Manchester Airport rail station has service to places such as Huddersfield, Leeds, York, Blackpool, Windermere (Lake District), Chester and Liverpool, Sheffield. With such convenient rail service from the airport, Manchester is now a great place to arrive in the UK!
Edinburgh Airport
Edinburgh's main railway station (Waverley) is in the city centre and can be reached by taxi or bus. From here there are services to Glasgow and a variety of other destinations in Scotland and England. Most train services also operate from Edinburgh Haymarket station which is on the main bus route between the airport and city centre
Glasgow Airport
Glasgow Airport is not equipped with its own rail station. Therefore it is necessary to take a bus link to Paisley Gilmour St and then the train to Glasgow – which takes about 45 minutes. If the final destination is Glasgow and the client has baggage it is perhaps easiest to get a taxi or the direct bus link.
Bristol Airport
The nearest train station to Bristol International Airport is Bristol Temple Meads, approximately seven miles away. The Bristol International Flyer express coach service connects you from Bristol Temple Meads to the airport every 15 at peak times.
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RESERVATIONS POLICY AND ADVICE
Trains in Britain run very frequently. Routes to/from London have at least one train an hour throughout the day in nearly every case and often more, especially to popular tourist destinations such as Bath, Edinburgh and York. It is therefore perfectly acceptable to ‘turn up and go’ - most people do! Indeed, this is what we advise and suggest. Our Pass products and Point -to-Point tickets are made for this type of flexibility - linger in London, explore for longer in Edinburgh, get curious in Chester. A touring vacation with a BritRail Pass means that itineraries or routes can be planned but last minute changes can always be made – if it is raining in London it probably isn’t in Norwich!
It should also be noted that British trains are very different from American trains or European TGV style trains where a reservation is required. In Britain, frequency is the key and is the big difference in making touring so easy.
Are there times when it is advisable to reserve a seat?
Whilst we advise maximum flexibility there are some occasions when we do advise reservations. Seat reservations a seat and give peace of mind.
- Peak times on long haul trains, Fridays, Sunday afternoon/evenings during holidays and on Summer Saturdays to the country. Like most people, Britons enjoy their weekends so Friday afternoons can also be busy especially out of London, particularly in Standard Class. - In First Class, if taking a very early morning business train (say before 9 am) from London, Leeds, York, Liverpool, Manchester, Bristol, Cardiff, Bath or Newcastle. - If travelling on a long journey in a small group, particularly if travelling from London to Scotland. - If travelling out of London during the evening rush hour.
How are Seat Reservations made?
Before Departure
Seat reservations can be made through an authorized ACP RailNet outlet, through the North American call centre or through the BritRail website. Note that most train services are No Smoking.
Upon Arrival
A reservation can be made at any station up to about 2 hours before the train departs. In some cases a booking must be made further in advance.
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RAIL TRAVEL FOR DISABLED PASSENGERS
The Railways of Britain welcome disabled travellers and are committed to making widespread improvements to stations and trains to make travel easier.
The Railways of Britain ask persons needing assistance to contact the Train Operating Company. If passengers are unsure as to the number of the station or the TOC to contact, passengers are advised to contact National Rail Enquiries when in the UK on 08457 48 49 50. National Rail Enquires have details of all station and train operator contacts. Passengers will then be able to contact stations or train operators directly.
GNER which operates the London to Edinburgh route via York has a special number to call once in the UK for assistance 08457 225 444.
To obtain assistance at the starting station, destination station and any interchange points en route at least 24 hours notice must be given to the train operating company of the first part of the journey. If the journey is cancelled please advise the helpline number where the original journey was planned.
Crossing London – London Transport operates a special service called StationLink which utilises buses with low access floors, ramps etc. between all the main London Rail Stations. For details contact:
Unit for Disabled Passengers, London Transport 172 Buckingham Palace Road London, SW1 9TN Tel UK 0207 918 3312
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CATERING TIPS
This section does not endeavour to tell you about the many wonderful and well documented quality restaurants available in the UK. Rather, it offers advice for when clients are on the move, for drinks and snacks they might need. As with all travelling, a little bit of pre-planning will work wonders and perhaps save a mini fortune!
Whilst On Board
Nearly all long haul trains and many regional services have a buffet or trolley service. The quality is good and the prices reasonable. On board service may be less comprehensive on weekends. Full meals are available on many GNER, Virgin and some First Great Western long distance trains.
At Stations
Many larger stations have increasingly impressive retail areas, as well as the fast food shops such as ‘Pret a Manger’, which have quality healthy sandwiches and other foods. Remember there is more to take-away in the UK than McDonalds.
Tip! - it is wonderful to have a meal on a train whilst crossing the countryside.
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LUGGAGE TIPS AND TRAVELLING IN BRITAIN
It would be simplistic to say ‘don’t take any’ but………..
Seriously, as with all independent travels the lighter the load the easier it will be.
What do we suggest?
1) Be comfortable and take with what is manageable.
2) Luggage on wheels is a great energy saver.
3) British platforms are the same height as the train carriages so weight lifting is not a requirement, however, given the generally older infrastructure of hotels, stations and so on, there are still zones where steps will be encountered.
4) Consider leaving some baggage at the hotel to lighten the load for the real touring part of the trip and pick it up on the return.
5) Some principle stations have inexpensive, secure luggage facilities – do use them.
6) If help is needed it is advisable to call the station, preferably in advance.
7) All main stations have luggage trolleys often with staff that can help for a nominal charge.
8) Don’t hesitate to take a taxi, (especially outside London) where they tend to be cheaper for journeys within the city/town or to your hotel.
9) Porters are not generally available and trains only stop at intermediate stations for 2 or 3 minutes so travel light.
10) Train carriages have overhead luggage racks, space between the seats and a storage area in the entrance vestibules for larger items.
11) Your bags need not inhibit you or cause you to worry, especially if you are reasonable in what you take.
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CANCELLATIONS, REFUNDS, RESPONSIBILITY & LIABILITY
Refunds will be granted if:
1. The unvalidated Pass, unused ticket or original exchange coupon or voucher is returned to the office from which it was purchased within 6 months from the date of issue. 2. Passes or tickets must bear no evidence of having been tampered with in any way. 3. No refund can be made in Britain. 4. No refund can be made if the Pass or Ticket cannot be produced. 5. Refunds are not given on validated Passes or tickets once the commencement date has been reached. 6. Where a Pass forms part of an inclusive Tour Package or contains additional segments or attractions, it is not separately refundable. 7. Generally a minimum 15% cancellation fee is imposed on unused Passes or Tickets. 8. Special offers are not refundable. 9. Neither the Participating Operators nor their Agents can accept any responsibility for any failure in the provision of any special offers included. 10. Refunds should not be returned to the Freepost address listed on this ticket jacket. 11. Seat and Sleeper reservations are non refundable.
The Legal Stuff
Please be advised that the information contained in this Sales Manual was correct at the time of printing, but that changes may have been made. BritRail reserves the right to change without prior notice, prices and product detail, whether or not related to currency fluctuation.
The BritRail Division of ACP Rail International acts only as a booking agent. It has no control over, and is not responsible for any of the tours, passes, attractions, hotels and other travel accommodations listed in this manual. All tickets and vouchers are issued on the express condition that BritRail is not responsible for any loss (consequential or otherwise), expense, damage, death, injury, inconvenience caused by or arising out of or in connection with any defect, negligence, wilful misconduct or other acts or omissions on behalf of the carrier or supplier.
Every booking is accepted subject to the conditions and tariffs imposed by the transportation or other supplier.
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