As families prepare for the annual summer holiday getaway, train operator East Coast is planning ahead to make the going easier by train.
Dedicated check-in teams will be on hand at the two busiest stations served by its trains, London King’s Cross and Edinburgh Waverley, to welcome passengers making the full 393-mile journey between the two capitals – and to help stow their heavy luggage safely in the guard’s van prior to departure.
With thousands of passengers expected to travel between London and Edinburgh by East Coast train during the summer, the train operator is gearing up to handle an increased volume of luggage on the route in late July and throughout August.
Passengers who book early can also take advantage of East Coast’s cut-price Advance fares, including in First Class, where customers can relax and enjoy the recently launched complimentary food and drink service in comfort as great city, country and coastal views speed by.
On selected weekend services, subject to availability, passengers can upgrade from Standard to First Class on payment of a £25 supplement on board the train.
East Coast Commercial and Customer Services Director Peter Williams said:
“Many passengers will be travelling with us for holidays in the next month, including those going to the Edinburgh Festivals, or making connections with Eurostar at London St Pancras to travel to European destinations.
“We know people travelling for an extended break will have increased volumes of luggage. To create more space on-board and make the journey more comfortable for everyone, we’re advising passengers making the full journey between London and Edinburgh to arrive in good time and take advantage of our free baggage check-in service.
“Our teams will ensure luggage is safely stowed in the guard’s van on the train, and will unload it onto the platform at the end of the journey in either Edinburgh or London.”
Luggage assistance teams will be on hand to stow luggage for passengers making the following journeys, seven days a week, from today until Saturday, 17 September inclusive:
From Edinburgh Waverley to London: depart Edinburgh at 09.30, 10.00, 10.30, 11.30, 12.00, 12.30, 13.30, 14.30 and 15.30.
From London King’s Cross to Edinburgh: depart London 09.00, 09.30, 10.00, 11.00, 11.30, 12.00, 13.00, 14.00 and 15.00.
All luggage should be clearly labelled with the passenger’s name, address, contact telephone number and destination station.
