Navigating Train Cancellations: A Frustrating Journey to London
Traveling can sometimes become an unexpected challenge, as I recently found out during my attempt to reach London from Lincoln. Much to my dismay, my LNER train was cancelled due to staff shortages, an inconvenience I certainly did not anticipate, especially since I had secured my tickets three months in advance.
With time ticking away and no immediate solution in sight, I was faced with a tough decision. I had to choose an alternate departure point from Newark rather than Lincoln to avoid further delays. This maneuver cost my group of four an additional £120, not to mention the parking fees for our car over the next four days.
The alternative? An indirect route from Lincoln that would take over 2.5 hours, whisking us through South Lincolnshire—an expanse of scenery that is far from captivating. Clearly, that was not an option I wanted to entertain.
My frustration extends beyond just the unexpected costs. I was left wondering why I had to incur any extra fees to change my travel plans due to LNER’s cancellation. And can I claim these additional expenses back? These questions are crucial for any traveler facing similar circumstances.
To elaborate on the situation, the cancellation announcement came after 6 PM on a Wednesday evening. Incredibly, I found myself without the support of LNER’s customer service, as there were no staff available to assist over the phone or through messaging. Left with limited choices, I had to weigh my options quickly:
- Pay £80 to switch to a slower train that was the next available option.
- Opt for the quicker direct train from Newark at a cost of £120 while also applying for a refund of £66 (which could take around ten days).
- Go for an earlier departure from Lincoln, albeit with all the inconvenience that entailed.
In the end, we selected the second option and made our way from Newark.
If you ever find yourself in a similar predicament, I encourage you to explore all available options, and don’t shy away from seeking clarification regarding potential refunds for any unexpected charges. It’s crucial to stay informed and proactive, especially when travel plans take an unexpected turn.