Originally Posted by Governator
1. Planning to take tube to Kings Cross - seems easier than first taking HEX and then going to tube. Would be cheaper too. Any suggestions?
2. Want to buy cheapest tickets available for travel, looks like 48 GBP single for most times. When can I reasonably expect to catch a train out of Kings Cross and what happens if we miss the train I've prebooked - full fare? Should I buy for a later one and try to get onto an earlier one if I get there sooner?
3. The choices to Middlesbrough are GNER/Northern Rail connecting at Darlington and GNER/Transpennine Express connecting at York. What would be the most scenic, comfortable and/or convenient? Both take about 3 and 1/2 hours.
1. I would jump on the tube as you're arriving after the rush hour and, although the journey time is slightly longer, is less hassle (assuming you're arriving at LHR T3) as the tube goes direct to King's Cross. Definitely cheaper at £3.80 one way. Reckon on a journey time of 50 mins.
2. Cheapest one way fare is £29.50 for a 7-day advance purchase which is only available off-peak. The £48.00 fare is the next lowest and both have restrictions meaning you must travel on the train indicated on your ticket otherwise you will be charged the FULL fare (£85.50 being the flexible open ticket). Trains leave KGX every 30 mins most of the day with a few exceptions.
3. Change at Darlington. You spend half an hour longer on the express and less time on the local trains (which are far less comfortable). York station is a lot busier than Darlington so it makes sense to change trains at Darlington. Scenic-wise, not much difference in it.
I recently did a trip report for a similar journey:
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=413757