Buses
National Express and Caledonian Express are the two main bus companies
that service the UK. They operate a comprehensive network of services
throughout the country, but do tend to be very busy so booking in
advance is advisable.
For longer journeys they provide Rapide coaches, complete with
washrooms, videos and stewards. Tickets are available from any
of the numerous agents nation-wide, not from the bus driver. Bookings
can be made in advance over the phone by ringing 0207 730 0202.
There is a facility for overseas visitors called the Tourist
Trail Pass, which allows unlimited travel on all services for
specific periods.
Taxis
Within the larger cities in the UK, taxis can be found on the
streets at designated taxi ranks, the same goes for airports and
ferry ports. However if you are in any of the smaller towns or
in a rural area, you will usually have to telephone for a cab,
or even prebook them. Do ask for a fare quote before you commence
your journey. Ask locally for numbers of reliable cabs or taxis.
When you are in London then widely available are London black
cabs, the drivers of which are renowned for their knowledge of
the city streets and routes.
Trains
The British rail network is mainly serviced by private companies.
Railway lines run the length and breath of the country servicing
all of the larger cities and most of the smaller towns. Routes that
are not serviced by the national rail network are serviced by buses,
ensuring that all towns and villages are easily accessible. Tickets
are reasonably priced, overnight trains do run but booking a cabin/berth
for overnight runs is recommended.
The rail service is efficient, prompt and reliable. Express trains
provide the essential service from London's airports to the city
centre stations of Paddington or Victoria.
