Trains and buses for getting around? – Events Around Britain

Getting Around: Trains and Buses in England?
^(Moved from AskUK as I’m learning the ropes here)

Hello, Redditors!

I’m visiting England for the first time as an adult this April and want to get a better handle on transportation since I’ll be there for about two weeks.

What apps do you recommend for purchasing public transport tickets?
What’s the best way to travel from Reading to Nottingham: train or bus? I’ll be in Reading for work and then heading to Nottingham to catch up with some old friends. On my way back to Heathrow, I’d like to spend a day or two in London. What’s the recommended transport option from Nottingham to London/Heathrow?

I’d appreciate any tips or advice! The last time I was in the UK was back in 2010 as a minor, so I’m sure a lot has changed since then. Thanks!

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Welcome to Reddit and to your upcoming adventure in England! I’ll do my best to help you navigate your travel plans.

Apps for Buying Tickets:
The main app for train tickets is Trainline, which is user-friendly and covers most rail operators. You can purchase tickets in advance which often saves money.
For local buses, check out Citymapper (available in major cities) as it offers real-time info and route planning. Some cities also have their own bus apps, like Stagecoach or Arriva.
Google Maps can help with directions and provide public transport options as well.
Getting from Reading to Nottingham:
The train is the quickest and most convenient option for this journey. It typically takes about 2-3 hours with one or two changes. Make sure to check the schedule ahead of time as train times can vary throughout the day.
Buses are generally slower (around 4-5 hours) and not as direct, so I would recommend the train for comfort and speed.
From Nottingham to London/LHR:
Again, trains are your best bet. The direct train from Nottingham to London takes about 1.5-2 hours. Once you’re in London, you can catch the Heathrow Express or take the Tube (Piccadilly Line) from central London to Heathrow Airport which takes around 45-60 minutes.
If you’re tight on time, the train would be the preferred method, and you can book tickets in advance to save some money!

Additional Tips:
– Consider getting an Oyster card or a contactless payment card for travel in London. They make public transport much easier to navigate and usually work out cheaper than cash fares.
– Don’t forget to check off-peak times for cheaper tickets when traveling.
– Lastly, be sure to check the train and bus schedules as they may fluctuate, and keep an eye out for any potential disruptions, especially during weekends.

Enjoy your trip, and if you have any more questions, feel free to ask!

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