I was inspired recently by the MoneySavingExpert website, which tried to see if it could save a businessman money. The chap in question was told where he’d be going the night before, and didn’t ever bother booking ahead. Instead, he just rocked up at the train station on the day and then bought the ticket on the platform.

What the MoneySavingExpert found was that even if you go online an hour before the train leaves, you’re bound to save money. In the example, there were plenty of saver return fares available for around £65, whereas the full fare on the platform was over £150.

http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/travel/cheap-train-tickets

My advice when booking between Edinburgh and London is always to plan ahead. If you can, start looking over three months before you’re planning to go – I know that sounds difficult! If you put in your dates and the fares haven’t been released yet, the website (Eastcoast.co.uk or TheTrainline.com) will notify you when the cheap seats go on sale.

Doing that, I’ve managed to get a return in standard class for £26 — the cheapest return fare on the platform would cost you around £90.

There’s also the option of  1st class, which can sometimes just be a few quid extra –particularly if you’re less organised when booking. Be sure to check both.

One last time, the EastCoast.co.uk website also gives you 5% off tickets and does not charge you for using a credit card or having your tickets sent in first class mail. Pretty good! I must say, I think the service has also improved since the line was taken into public hands.