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Luxurious seating compensates for poor service on TransPennine Express

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Luxurious seating compensates for poor service on TransPennine Express
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Becca Alkema Operations Manager and Contributing Writer | Runway Girl Network

The UK rail network consists of various operators, each offering unique interpretations of first-class travel. Runway Girl Network's recent train trip reports have primarily focused on operators departing from London to the west and north, where elaborate service often compensates for basic interiors. However, a recent journey across Northern England with TransPennine Express revealed the opposite; luxurious seating made up for subpar service.

Upon arriving at Manchester Piccadilly from a connecting service, concerns arose about the lack of an assigned seat after upgrading via Seatfrog, a common tool for long-distance trains in the UK. Despite initial worries about potential disruptions, it became clear that scrambling for a spot was unnecessary as the crowds thinned significantly after a westbound train departed.

While waiting for the train to Darlington, there was uncertainty regarding the first-class experience due to varying catering services depending on route, time of day, and train type. The arrival of a 2006-built 185 Desiro diesel-hydraulic multiple-unit passenger train—rather than the anticipated Nova-branded set—was initially disappointing.

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Despite their age and typically being used for slower services, these 185 Desiro trains featured impressive interiors updated in 2017. The first-class compartment included 15 seats in a 2+1 layout with solo seats and two-top and four-top arrangements around tables. The seats were upholstered in grey leather with blue and white headrests, while tables had wood veneer finishes.

The solo airline-style seat provided ample legroom and comfort with firm cushioning suitable even for taller passengers. Each seat included power ports and some recline but had small tray tables inadequate for larger devices like laptops. Adjustable window blinds added to passenger comfort.

Relocating to a two-seat table area highlighted thoughtful design elements such as broad tables suitable for work or dining and modernist side lighting built into the table itself. The dark materials complemented the overall aesthetic reminiscent of VIP transport rather than regional rail travel.

The compartment featured glass doors, overhead luggage racks, floor-mounted storage space by doors for large suitcases, live information displays announcing stations, and accessible toilet access through standard class seating areas.

However, positive aspects ended there as other experiences were less favorable. A cleaning staff member played loud news from his phone upon boarding but complied when asked to turn it off. No meal service was offered during the entire 2.5-hour journey without explanation despite being advertised.

Further issues included delays at several stations resulting in slower-than-expected travel times and an urgent announcement requiring all passengers to move forward as rear coaches were detached at York station.

Despite these inconveniences, luxurious seating with well-thought-out design elements contributed to an overall relaxed experience. While paying full fare might alter perceptions slightly compared to just an upgrade fee paid via Seatfrog’s app—a significant takeaway remains: TransPennine Express’ impressive first-class product raises questions about whether other companies should prioritize interior quality over extensive onboard services.

Related Articles:

How UK rail operators can elevate their first class product

Time and Space: UK first class air transport versus the train

Why first class aboard UK railway operator LNER is truly First Class

Avanti West Coast First Class: new interiors but same poor service

First class on Great Western Railway IET train takes the strain

Europe on track to shunt more air passengers onto rail

UK first class upgrade app for trains Seatfrog sees growth accelerate

GWR’s first class lounge at Paddington: Victoria in memoriam

Featured image credited to Fintan Horan-Stear

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