pre cruise in London questions

[Lmack]

Book on the Megatrain/Megabus website but would advise a morning train as they are certainly less busy. The last time we went we booked an afternoon train and it was very busy and had a bit of trouble with our two large suitcases ie tricky to find anywhere to put them .When we have travelled in the morning it has been much easier for space. It's a good service and well worth doing.

 

This will be our first time in London and staying 3 days before taking a cruise from Southampton. We'll be staying at the Hampton by Hilton London Waterloo. We're considering taking the Megatrain to Southampton which shows the Waterloo Station. As of yet, our date to book the train isn't available. What advice do you have for us regarding the train. We'll each have 1 large bag (under 50lbs - website says 20kg which would be a little over 44lbs.), 1 carry-on roll-away, & our personal item (purse & backpack). Do they weigh the luggage? Once we walk to the Waterloo station, what do we need to look for so we:

1. 
   

• Don't get lost
  
• Miss our train
  

 

Once we arrive in Southampton, what's our next step - if a taxi, what's the approximate cost? I would assume they are readily available.

Please give me any advice and suggestions.

 

By the way, does anyone have any suggestions regarding a shared shuttle from Heathrow to the hotel? I'm considering booking one on Viator.

 

Thanks for all the advice and suggestions.

[Morgans]

As has been said, aim to get a morning train to Southampton - less busy than in the afternoon therefore slightly more space for luggage. If I recall correctly the Megatrain trains tend to be 49 minutes past the hour (obviously you will find this out when you buy your tickets) so aim to get to Waterloo Station well before so you can orientate yourselves. All trains are detailed on the huge departures board which you can't miss and this will tell you which platform you need. Be aware that at station your destination of Southampton may not be the final stop of the train so look carefully at the listings on the board for timings/destinations. Try to get there in good time and you will be fine. There is overhead space for luggage and because you will be traveling at a quieter time you should be ok for space. There will be other passengers also heading for the port. Taxis are plentiful at Southampton and there should be no difficulty getting to the ship. Allow £10 - £12 for fare (possibly slightly more?)

[Globaliser]

By the way, does anyone have any suggestions regarding a shared shuttle from Heathrow to the hotel?

Yes: Don't bother. Book a private car transfer from one of the usual suspects which are talked about all the time on these boards. A shared shuttle is probably more trouble than it's worth.