Expensive and unreliable (First Great Western)

Member Name: Brooke3

Product:	First Great Western
Date:	29/10/08 (48 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: refund double your money

Disadvantages: refunds are in vouchers, there are always delays

There are a number of benefits to travelling with first great western. If you book in advance you can get really cheap first class tickets which will get you free food, drink and even wine if you travel at the right time or you can buy really really cheap standard class tickets.
However, for the most part first great western are over priced and frequently delayed.
If you apply for a refund for delays they refund you in vouchers meaning that if you want to use your refund you still have to travel with them which I think is cheeky but at least this year they're giving away double the vouchers if your train is delayed. I unfortunately know this because I have been delayed so many times and on one of these occasions applied for a refund. They don't make it easy to get a refund though, you have to fill out a special form and be sure to take your ticket and not let the machine eat it.
If possible avoid travelling with first great western but if you have to (like me) then be sure to book in advance on their website to get cheap tickets and avoid booking fees.

Summary: Travelling with first great western is expensive and there are always delays.