The only time I ever did an overnight bus I went from Brighton to Amsterdam with 'Eurolines'. I thought it would be a good idea to buy a bottle of Archer's Peach Schnapps from Threshers near Victoria Coach station as it offered the optimal price to alcohol ratio in that particular off-licence. I drank the entire bottle and then settled down for the journey from London to the Dover ferry then onto France, Belgium and then finally Amsterdam. I woke up at 12.30am with my head resting on the shoulder of a worried looking Belgian scoutmaster. I'd been drooling an Archer's infused slime on him and myself while I'd been unconscious. At this point I realised I was going to be violently sick and the coach had no toilet on it. After vomiting into a plastic bag (actually mostly the side stairwell) I took a well earned rest away from the scouts and fell asleep next to an annoyed looking woman. I was eventually kicked off the bus at the Olympic stadium in the south of Amsterdam along with a number of other confused and sad people at 5am.After walking for half an hour I ended up in the Vondel park where I realised I was surrounded by drug addicts and thieves. They somehow sensed I wasn't worth robbing and left me alone with the worst hangover I've ever had. Since that experience I don't take coaches and don't drink Peach Schnapps, Archer's or otherwise.
Well done! A hero. As a child i travelled more than once overnight between London and Glasgow using Western SMT. This was long before there were motorways. We stopped at St Ives and Lockerbie. these were the most uncomfortable nights I can ever remember.
I'm glad you made it home. I don't think I could take wearing a mask all that time and catching a nap too. I agree I don't think I will be taking a bus to London anytime soon. Thank you for your time and sacrifice for showing us how it's done! Now catch up on some good rest!🥰
The train takes about 11hrs & costs £100+ say to £10-15 on the bus. He gave us no info which was what I wanted. Leg room, wi-fi?, reading light, toilet state, peak at upstairs & people.
When I was a kid we used to travel to Hartlepool from Victoria to see my Nans Sister. We used to leave Victoria about 8 o clock at night and get to Hartlepool about 6 o clock in the morning. Roads are much better now. Happy memories of trying to sleep sitting up, flasks of coffee and spam sandwiches.
I have also travelled both ways on the Western SMT overnight service between London and Glasgow. Before motorways the journey took about 14 hours as I remember, departure from Victoria Coach Station was 20.00, and arrival at Buchanan St in Glasgow was about 10.00 am but my memory fades, (it was nearly 70 years ago). The route was A1, A66, A74. We had travelled on the Starlight Special, a train that was run by BR with cheaper fares to compete with the coach, but it never did, so was taken off. Rail fares were expensive, so most people of little means took the coach. Of course once at Glasgow, we had to get another bus to Greenock where my mother's parents lived.
I never did the overnight bus trip but did use Western SMT services a lot back in the day. I lived in Greenock for years (my mother still does on Brisbane Street) I worked in The Central Hotel in Glasgow which at the time was part of British Transport Hotels and we got 4 free train passes a year so a trip to London was by train not the bus. There are parts of the old Western SMT garage in Pottery Street in Greenock still there but part of it was demolished to make car storage area for Arnold Clark.
In my younger years, and not so younger, I've done this journey many, many times by National Express and only once by Megabus. I think that previous statement says it all.
@Franky H-G: Ha ha. I recollect National Express had sometimes 3 man crews, one driving, one resting and one "learning" the route. Unlike the train the Nat.Exp. Coach was always well regulated and if there was any loud talking after midnight you were asked "Sir, would like to walk the rest of the way". I preferred the Coach rather than BR with clogged-up toilets, rowdy drunk passengers and rail-crew nowhere to be seen.
I used to do this journey regularly around 35 years ago when I worked in London. I was young then, with a girlfriend back home in Scotland. Once did the bus to London followed by 9 hours pottering about the city, then a bus trip to Cologne to see the band Queen. Straight after the concert it was the same journey back. Wouldnt even consider putting myself through that now at 57 years old.
I travelled on the megabus from Glasgow to London regularly back around 2016 , I did it quite a few times when I started working as a film extra ,it took around 8 hours , it was okay at first cos they had bunkbeds fitted in the coaches ,so you could strap yourself into the bed and it was comfy , but after a few years they stopped it and if you had a two seats to yourself , you had to give one of the seats up to the on coming passenger , it was very uncomfortable to try and sleep , by the time I had arrived in Victoria Station, I was absolutely shattered, as they say you only get what you pay for , I'm so glad I no longer do those long journeys on the megabus, as I live in the south so , closer to London or better still pay the extra tenner or twenty an get the train , end of the day you want comfort
Thanks for doing the journey but I had hoped you would cover more of the interior of the coach and route. Did the seats recline? Head rests for sleeping comfort? Toilet on board? Baggage storage inside? Toilet/refreshment stop on route? I think you might have to do the trip again to let us all see.
@@johnnyonezero2 well it's not easy filming on a packed bus... that's prob why he's not doing it, plus it could get in the way of Covid protocols :) besides, he doesn't have to do anything except what he wants x
The coach has a toilet. I do this journey London to Inverness return several times a year and find a travel pillow and a blanket help with sleeping.Seats are comfortable but do not recline.
@@gabrielmazza7923 you can still speak about it tho. Info what is what we want. Cost? It's cheap tho at 10-15 quid. Edinburgh route takes much longer. Do they run in the day? If your going to do a travelogue you speak about. Was boarding easy, needs to do better.
Thanks for your video. I once took a $52 rdtp megabus from Washington, DC to Toronto, Canada and it was grueling. I was 63 years old at the time. There was just no way to get comfortable in the seat so i never really got any shuteye. The buses need to be a little more comfortable for such long trips in my humble opinion.
Love your videos, so real and honest. Especially when say at the end, I don’t think I would do it again, lol./ hope your sponsors don’t get mad at u, lol.
Hi Jon, yes I think I'm a bit too old in the tooth for this overnight bus nonsense. At least I can say I've done it, just like crashing overnight on a bench at Heathrow airport etc. 👍
Been over 20 years since I last got a night bus to Glasgow from London and after that trip I also said never again. Train is so much better at least you can get up and walk around and of course it be under 5 hours. Then the plane but so much hassle getting to airport getting through security. Then get on and of the plane then the trip from Glasgow airport to the city. It will be the train for me. Great videos
A few years ago I shot a video on this channel from George Square (Glasgow) to Trafalgar Square (London). I raced *myself*, with one journey by air and the other by train. Both journeys on paper should have been 5.5 hours in length. As it turned out my train was cancelled, so British Airways won on this occasion, but usually, from city centre to city centre, the train would be the more relaxing (and environmentally friendly) way to travel. 👍 th-cam.com/video/YKiQltCB2yc/w-d-xo.html
Love the videos. It's amazing how these forms of transport have almost been forgotten but are now becoming more popular since higher air fares. I used to take the overnight bus from London to Glasgow frequently during the 90s. It was usually hell as the buses back then we're just cramped local coaches. Used to feel sorry for family's with children as the long journey would be hard to get them to settle. The engine heat would make the bus a sauna in the summer months and the toilets would break down frequently due to the high engine heat evaporating the water in the tank. The drivers would be hesitant to stop anywhere other than scotch corner or southwaite in fear of the cab breaking down or the bus injectors clogging with carbon. Then the late 90s saw the rise of cheap flights, and I coul fly with KLM from STD to GLW In an hour for less than £40 return with an on flight meal. But now Glasgow seem like a very hard place to get to via air, unless you go via Dublin or belfast. So looks like It will be the coach for me now. Your videos have helped me make some choices. Thank you. Can't wait to try the NE now, it looks way more comfortable.
I have a challenge for you mate. In 1990 I worked on a summer camp in America. At the end of the summer I travelled from Worcester Mass. to Santa Monica Ca. on a Greyhound bus. The journey was absolutely amazing but it took four days and nights from Friday till Monday and covered more or less three and a half thousand miles. The Arizona desert at 3am takes some beating!! How about you try it............
I went by bus from Dublin to Letterkenny. It was a late night journey - not even overnight - on either side of midnight. Never again. All was well till the bus picked up returning holidaymakers at the airport. They had no respect for anyone. Did I say "Never again" already?
Enjoying your travels, wish they were mine. Take comfort, I took the Caledonian Sleeper in 2004 and spent the night trying not to slip off the narrow plastic "cot", with bedding that was shorter than the bed. (That may have all been fixed since then.) Lost power outside of Carlisle, so no ventilation, nothing to mask the sounds of the neighbors... only good thing was unlimited breakfast was provided due to the delay, and we got to see Carlisle to Glasgow in beautiful sunny daylight. A newspaper crew tried to interview me, until I said I was fine with the delay, and the woman said "Oh, I'm sorry. We are looking for people who are upset." LOL!
I travelled from Perth to London by Megabus a number of years ago for my mates Dad's Birthday. Headed down on the Friday morning, then on to Sussex. The drinking started on the Friday evening, a wee sleep, then off it kicked again on the Saturday afternoon, right through to Sunday morning, when i got a few hours sleep again, before continuing the drinking from Sunday lunch time until my mate and myself had to head back into London to get the night bus back up to Perth. We arrived in Perth at 9am, still drunk, he went home to bed, and didn't surface for about 2 days, and i headed off for a 12 hour shift at my work, which was absolute torture.
I traveled Glas-Lon a few times in the late '80's early '90's. Bloody awful, horrible, never to be repeated experience. Got stuck once with a crazy family, at night, singing, smoking and passing round litres of Vodka and Whisky. Hellish. I vowed never to bus it to London ever again. Thanks for you informative video.
I took (more or less) the same Bus but from Edinburgh to Victoria Station 8am to 8pm..and it was a day to remember!! So many hours inside that Bus.. Thanks Godness, it was almost empty. But I remember getting to Victoria Station and running from the Bus like a Bat out of Hell and shouting.. Never more never more!! 🚍🚍🚍
Lacking detail I'm afraid. What were the seats like ie by how much did they recline , toilets on board, were there refreshments available? Only one driver?
Quick question. Do you know why at Victoria station the bus was numbered M20 (Glasgow) and on arrival at Buchanan Street bus station on arrival the reflection shows M11 (Glasgow).
I've done it a couple of times. It's not so bad if you're prepared. It's always run a bit early when I've been on it, although I'm pretty sure it went direct, only stopping for a driver swap. They used to run a proper sleeper service with bunks which I used too, it was actually really good. Especially if you were travelling with someone and could share a double bunk with dividers. All in all, if the price is right I'd say it's worth it. The sleeper train is a plaything for those with too much money.
Great vid! I wish to add comment though - 8 hrs 20 mins on a bus is not too much of a stretch by Australian standards. I once had to take a series of McCafferty's buses from Darwin to Brisbane - changing buses at Tenant Creek, Mt. Isa, and Townsville. Total distance of 3804km. Took over 3 days from memory, but had a great time. Got to meet lots of backpackers and cool people. I used to frequent to Brisbane to Melbourne service - 24 hours straight one way - found it more gruelling than the Darwin - Brisbane trip. Once again - thanks for making this vid, and sleep well!
I did Sydney to Cairns by Ansett Pioneer many years ago - 54 hours. It was a slog but it was a reasonably enjoyable and inexpensive way to get to far North Queensland. It would interesting to know the commercials of the London-Glasgow journey. Are the savings worth catching a bus? Overnight, at least you’re saving on accommodation outlay otherwise I’m sure I’d love to do it during daylight to see the world go by.
I remember travelling overnight back in the 50,s, I think it was Northern Roadways something like that, I was just a kid so It was quite an adventure for me, we had food supplied on the coach, & one of stops was at Lockerbie.
Always been curious about this journey. Always wanted to do the overnight sleeper train but on the rare occasions they run it, the cost is unjustifiable.
The sleeper in BR days was good, I paid about £30 in the 80s which was fair & a nice cuppa from the valet in the morning. If you shared with a unknown traveller it could be tricky with snorers. Now you can get a double bed. Bring back BR.
But you can take the missus and get a double room with en suite and shower for 350 quid... it's not so much of a rip off when you consider the fact it costs like 220+ quid for two adults doing London to Glasgow on the normal train. One thing I did notice during my research, however, is that brekkie ain't free. I always assumed your breakfast was part of the package. Not so. You've gotta pay for it and I bet it's dear.
I've done Plymouth to London on the Megabus overnight. About 6Hours and thats bad enough. Shoulder to shoulder with a stranger not enough room to sleep. Only tolerable if you get luck and get 2 seats to yourself. And thats a big gamble.
I enjoyed the vid but you could of given us more info, How much was the journey? Was the seats comparable an adjustable, Was there adequate amenities on board, Can you take food on? Is there charging ports for phones etc? . Cheers. 👍😃
I've done the Chester-London-Cambridge all day, attended a funeral the next day and did the return journey that night, all night. I got home the next morning. All during a heatwave. It was a journey to hell and back on single decker coaches. In the end I was so exhausted because I mostly couldn't sleep, felt so travel sick, when I got home I just collapsed on the bed and fell into unconsciousness. I vowed I would never do that again. I could say all the things that went wrong on that journey but it would go on forever.
Hi great video ive never been on a megabus in fairness but always wanted to do the sleeper train would you ever do that and do a video as it be worth watching, anyways great video as always take care and stay safe Gaz
Brings back many unhappy memories of National Express London to Inverness (change in Glasgow) overnighter back in 98. I'm 6' 3" and the whole thing was grim. Lots of stops through the night so no chance of any sleep even if you weren't crammed in like sardines. I was in my 20s then and wouldn't even consider it now so fair play to you for hacking it.
You can book a seat on a table for 4 configuration which is what I would do. You can't complain at 10-15 quid & the young can't pay train prices. Why have empty night trains, fill them up at £30 a seat. Makes sense to me. Prices will rise. My diesel is 20p more than unleaded now. Notice that my Aldi puddings have disappeared & weirdly cheese & onion crisps? Ohhhh Ukraine you only had to stay NATO neutral & this terrible war human & monetary costing wouldn't have happened. This all goes back to WW2 Slav ethnic cleansing by SS Ukrainians & the Russians don't forgive. The missile makers are doing well tho..
MegaBus was initially not allowed into the Chicago Greyhound Depot. Early on - they picked up at Union Station. Then they got moved to 2 blocks from the station. I have NO IDEA if they are even operating from Chicago. A photog acquaintance used to get super cheap fares and travel around the American Midwest on the cheap, Several of the busses from Chicago were in wrecks - one even caught on fire! Everyone wanted upstairs on the double-deckers. After a while- we never saw them in Chicago routes.,
I couldn't do an overnight coach journey sitting up like this, but I just watched a video about the Los Angeles - San Francisco service where you sleep in a bed on the coach in a little pod. They should introduce this - I'd use it.
What amazes me is that the bus drivers don't fall asleep. I would far rather go by train as at least the train would stop if the driver fell asleep in the cab on such a long trip. How much was the coach ticket?
Hi, just found your channel and enjoyed this journey. Wondering if the overnight coach has slightly more room? If not, I think I would struggle to sleep at all. You’re a brave man.
I have used just about every bus company who run the service and to be honest the best had to be national express in my eyes, with some megabus services there’s a lot of stops on the way up and can make it hard
We did this journey there and ba k several years ago. It was a foul journey. Toilets were still king when we got on and then blocked before we reached Manchester. No comfort stops but driver eventually had to stop at Services to allow passengers use a toilet as a lot of us complained. Absolutely no legroom so I had to sit sideways with my legs dangling into the aisle. I was dreading the return journey and that wasn't any better.
I took the Aberdeen-London overnight National Express a few times in the nineties. I was getting on at Stirling so that cut about a few miles! Once was for a job interview, the next time I was on my holidays. The first time there was an hostess on the bus who served teas and coffees. A few years later that service had ceased. I was gutted because I hadn't taken a flask...😆
I remember taking a coach from Leeds to London a couple of years ago, Boxing Day so no trains running. I actually got travel sick, thought I was going to vomit, took me back to my school boy days. Remarkably unpleasant way to travel, I was dreading the return journey but I didn't feel so rotten going home for some reason. I swore never to travel on a coach for such a journey again, it is cheap but that's all you can say for it. If I can't get a train these days I drive to see the mighty Spurs, and stay in a hotel so I can enjoy a little drinkee. More expensive of course but happily I can afford the expense, I don't want to travel 'coach class' again!
The local Govt, took the night trains off & reduced the day train to alternate days, otherwise it's a choice of flying + airport trips, or Bus - if your lucky, it's a double decker, if not just a regular truck that's had a makeover for the human cargo. Like you, can't sleep on buses - put up a good show by closing eyes but staying aware the whole dang trip, which with a change, can make the trip close to 24 hours . Last time I drove the distance, it took less than 8.30 hours with little traffic to contend with.
I used to do this every month to see my son! Was horrendous! I’ve had some unreal experiences with people on there! Snoring people! Loud people! Rude people! 12+ hours it used to take! Now I drive! Cost me a lot more but it’s really worth it!
One problem I hadn't anticipated was, by sitting at the front of the upper deck, with the window directly in front of me, there would be no leg room at all. It was a long journey!
@@PlanesTrainsEverything oh I made that mistake once! Best thing to do is pay for 2 seats and take the back corner to yourself so you can lay out t least a little! I did that a few times also! 😁
I don`t know if you know this tip which will save you a fortune while traveling long distance on trains. When i`m on a long distance train, having 1st booked a good 3 weeks in advance, i always book a 2nd class ticket but, once the train is moving and ONLY when its moving ask the guard if you can upgrade to 1st. It`ll only cost you between £10 - £20 extra on top of your ticket. Also worth noting to our forgein visitors is to not buy food or drink on trains as well as at stations as they`ll charge as much as they can get away with. Always buy in shops before your journey begins. I would also suggest to not take anything out of hotel fridges or, even `complamentary ` drinks in hotel rooms. You could be in for a nasty shock when it comes to paying your bill. I enjoy your videos too, very informative.
Hi Andy. I've hear of that 2nd class to 1st class move before, but have never tried it. In regards to hotel fridges, I usually have a look to see what's there (because I'm nosey), but some hotels have monitors installed, so by even removing a can of Coke because you're desperate, and replacing it the following day, the fridge computer reads it's removal, and charges you at check-out.
@@PlanesTrainsEverything I stayed in a hotel in Mancs a few years ago and there was a fridge there. I replaced everything penny for penny and wasn`t charged. I also ised it for milk which i bought everyday. As long as you replace products like for like, they can`t charge you. As for the `complimentary bottle of wine` i never touch it. I`ve heard too many tales of unwary people thinking its free when its not.
@@frasermitchell9183 You may be right there as its only at weekends i`ve used it. I should also note to never travel on a Friday as booking a ticket on that day is more expensive than any other day. To compete fairly, our whole rain system needs a complete overhaul.
I used to do these overnight coach trips to Inverness on Megabus and the National express 588 service I actually quite enjoyed them and if I get a chance will love to resume doing these again.👍
Now that idea caught my imagination! I've just looked on the Megabus website but they don't seem to operate a non-stop service at the moment. The best service involves a change at Edinburgh, which is cheating. Still though, that idea is now firmly planted in the back of my head. Thanks for planting the seed of an idea.
Yep ! Did it in December . Let Inverness at 4.30 pm . Arrived London about 7.55 am . No big deal if you have a long lie in the morning before you leave ? £ 38 single . Bargain !! Can't stand flying ....so only option.
I took this trip last night in the same seat! Even with my inflatable pillow and cushion, eyemask and noise-cancelling headphones, I was hard pushed to get any sleep. Before I learnt to use headphones, the worst part was always other passengers, I don't know why they need to take phone calls and watch videos with the sound on at 2am. I did save a bit of money but I think I might try the new Lumo train next time. It wasn't as bad last night as when I did it in October, the toilet started leaking all over the floor and everyone on the bottom deck had to hold their noses.
Second video I’ve watched of yours today and again no mention of cost. It’s only reason I watched. Was hoping for some information or tips on how to keep the price down. Anyway just a suggestion…….
In the great scheme of things an 8 hour bus journey is not exactly a re - run of the Shackleton expedition . ? Have a kip the day before you leave ? What's next ? The epic train journey from Glasgow to Wemyss Bay ?
The thing that bothers me most about long distance bus journeys, apart from not finding it easy or comfortable enough to sleep, is having to keep my legs in the same position for so long. They really start to ache and there's no real way of relieving them. Also travelling on motorways there is not much of interest to see from the windows.
@@geoffdundee I've tried it by train with a European inter-rail card. I travelled up Italy by train. Couldn't get to sleep in a seat so had to lie on the corridor floor. The train stopped at stations all night, and I was frequently woken by the banging of the doors as people boarded or left the train. Arrived in Venice about 5.a.m and tried to sleep in the waiting area until the tourist info place opened, but the police kept waking anyone that looked asleep and making them stand up. When we got some accommodation that day my first priority was sleep.
I used to regularly travel to London from Glasgow on Megabus, overnight. There's probably no words in the English language to aptly describe that feeling when you wake up, uncomfortable, at around 3.30am, and realise where you are. A feeling of death really. Not good.
I haven't taken the Megabus but I've done this route from Edinburgh to London Victoria. There are two rest stops on the way down. Where the coach stops for 20 mins. Your told that you must be back before then otherwise the coach driver will drive off. Sounding very strict.. but I the bus driver did wait a few mins extra on the second stop. I guess this seems to be a attitude towards people who decide that they don't follow schedules. As for toilets.. it was working. Small and cramped and I nearly fell over inside coming into Milton Keynes. If you need a poo. Wait for the rest stops and it's more comfortable. As for passengers. I was very lucky to have a double seat to myself. The seats were extremely uncomfortable and people snored. There was one old cockney geezer chatting nonsense to himself next me for about 4 hours before he finally nodded off. Eventually people on the buss were so uncomfortable that people were sleeping in the gangways blocking access to the toilet. The bus has a loud hum to it. So even noise cancelling headphones won't work. Unless.they really are worth your salt. Top tips: Bring a cushion and pillow. Take time making your space work for you. Don't listen to the driver. Move bags or make a den or everything and anything you can do to make yourself feel comfortable. As when you do decide to try and make yourself comfortable you will be to tired to try. Sleep if and when you can as you will feel absolutely exhausted. Bring movies, games, cards anything that can help whittle the hours down. Do not I REPEAT! DO NOT AT THE CLOCK. when light first approaches you will be 2 hours from London Victoria. So that's a good starting point for waking up. Do not go to the back of the bus unless you want the smell of ouss and shit to waft down near you. Pick the middle back. Pretend to be a deep asleep when the bus stops and out your bags or feet on the chair beside you as people will not want to disturb you.
Oh thank god you took this journey for us and we could watch it in the comfort of home! The things you do for us Scott! Thanks so much!!!
💯😂😂😂
We saw zero sadly.
View is better in the day time
That's a long journey without a toilet
The only time I ever did an overnight bus I went from Brighton to Amsterdam with 'Eurolines'. I thought it would be a good idea to buy a bottle of Archer's Peach Schnapps from Threshers near Victoria Coach station as it offered the optimal price to alcohol ratio in that particular off-licence. I drank the entire bottle and then settled down for the journey from London to the Dover ferry then onto France, Belgium and then finally Amsterdam.
I woke up at 12.30am with my head resting on the shoulder of a worried looking Belgian scoutmaster. I'd been drooling an Archer's infused slime on him and myself while I'd been unconscious. At this point I realised I was going to be violently sick and the coach had no toilet on it. After vomiting into a plastic bag (actually mostly the side stairwell) I took a well earned rest away from the scouts and fell asleep next to an annoyed looking woman. I was eventually kicked off the bus at the Olympic stadium in the south of Amsterdam along with a number of other confused and sad people at 5am.After walking for half an hour I ended up in the Vondel park where I realised I was surrounded by drug addicts and thieves. They somehow sensed I wasn't worth robbing and left me alone with the worst hangover I've ever had. Since that experience I don't take coaches and don't drink Peach Schnapps, Archer's or otherwise.
What a story, thanks for the good read
Oh my, this is hilarious.
I’m happy to learn from your mistakes.
No toilet, oof
But apart from that ok??
Well done! A hero. As a child i travelled more than once overnight between London and Glasgow using Western SMT. This was long before there were motorways. We stopped at St Ives and Lockerbie. these were the most uncomfortable nights I can ever remember.
I'm glad you made it home. I don't think I could take wearing a mask all that time and catching a nap too. I agree I don't think I will be taking a bus to London anytime soon. Thank you for your time and sacrifice for showing us how it's done! Now catch up on some good rest!🥰
The train takes about 11hrs & costs £100+ say to £10-15 on the bus. He gave us no info which was what I wanted. Leg room, wi-fi?, reading light, toilet state, peak at upstairs & people.
When I was a kid we used to travel to Hartlepool from Victoria to see my Nans Sister.
We used to leave Victoria about 8 o clock at night and get to Hartlepool about 6 o clock in the morning.
Roads are much better now.
Happy memories of trying to sleep sitting up, flasks of coffee and spam sandwiches.
I have also travelled both ways on the Western SMT overnight service between London and Glasgow. Before motorways the journey took about 14 hours as I remember, departure from Victoria Coach Station was 20.00, and arrival at Buchanan St in Glasgow was about 10.00 am but my memory fades, (it was nearly 70 years ago). The route was A1, A66, A74. We had travelled on the Starlight Special, a train that was run by BR with cheaper fares to compete with the coach, but it never did, so was taken off. Rail fares were expensive, so most people of little means took the coach. Of course once at Glasgow, we had to get another bus to Greenock where my mother's parents lived.
I never did the overnight bus trip but did use Western SMT services a lot back in the day. I lived in Greenock for years (my mother still does on Brisbane Street) I worked in The Central Hotel in Glasgow which at the time was part of British Transport Hotels and we got 4 free train passes a year so a trip to London was by train not the bus. There are parts of the old Western SMT garage in Pottery Street in Greenock still there but part of it was demolished to make car storage area for Arnold Clark.
They used horses then!
@Delta 1 there's a lot of beer to get rid off too.
Appreciating the memories of you old timers! 14 hours and no M roads... blimey
In my younger years, and not so younger, I've done this journey many, many times by National Express and only once by Megabus.
I think that previous statement says it all.
Immigrant transportation vehicles
@Franky H-G: Ha ha. I recollect National Express had sometimes 3 man crews, one driving, one resting and one "learning" the route. Unlike the train the Nat.Exp. Coach was always well regulated and if there was any loud talking after midnight you were asked "Sir, would like to walk the rest of the way". I preferred the Coach rather than BR with clogged-up toilets, rowdy drunk passengers and rail-crew nowhere to be seen.
I used to do this journey regularly around 35 years ago when I worked in London. I was young then, with a girlfriend back home in Scotland. Once did the bus to London followed by 9 hours pottering about the city, then a bus trip to Cologne to see the band Queen. Straight after the concert it was the same journey back. Wouldnt even consider putting myself through that now at 57 years old.
I travelled on the megabus from Glasgow to London regularly back around 2016 , I did it quite a few times when I started working as a film extra ,it took around 8 hours , it was okay at first cos they had bunkbeds fitted in the coaches ,so you could strap yourself into the bed and it was comfy , but after a few years they stopped it and if you had a two seats to yourself , you had to give one of the seats up to the on coming passenger , it was very uncomfortable to try and sleep , by the time I had arrived in Victoria Station, I was absolutely shattered, as they say you only get what you pay for , I'm so glad I no longer do those long journeys on the megabus, as I live in the south so , closer to London or better still pay the extra tenner or twenty an get the train , end of the day you want comfort
Thanks for doing the journey but I had hoped you would cover more of the interior of the coach and route. Did the seats recline? Head rests for sleeping comfort? Toilet on board? Baggage storage inside? Toilet/refreshment stop on route? I think you might have to do the trip again to let us all see.
Agreed. I would need to know all about the lavatory arrangements before getting on a bus for 8 hours!
Yes , all of the above would be nice to know
@@johnnyonezero2 well it's not easy filming on a packed bus... that's prob why he's not doing it, plus it could get in the way of Covid protocols :) besides, he doesn't have to do anything except what he wants x
The coach has a toilet.
I do this journey London to Inverness return several times a year and find a travel pillow and a blanket help with sleeping.Seats are comfortable but do not recline.
@@gabrielmazza7923 you can still speak about it tho. Info what is what we want. Cost? It's cheap tho at 10-15 quid. Edinburgh route takes much longer. Do they run in the day? If your going to do a travelogue you speak about. Was boarding easy, needs to do better.
Thanks for your video. I once took a $52 rdtp megabus from Washington, DC to Toronto, Canada and it was grueling. I was 63 years old at the time. There was just no way to get comfortable in the seat so i never really got any shuteye. The buses need to be a little more comfortable for such long trips in my humble opinion.
Thank you so much for taking us along I will never get to see all of these wonderful places in person means world to me 💟💟💟💟💟😁
Impressive indeed! Good to know the bus is a viable option to flying or the train. Bang on time !
Love your videos, so real and honest. Especially when say at the end, I don’t think I would do it again, lol./ hope your sponsors don’t get mad at u, lol.
Beyond the call of duty there mate , a gentleman of your standing deserves a bit of comfort , leave the bus to the students !
Hi Jon, yes I think I'm a bit too old in the tooth for this overnight bus nonsense. At least I can say I've done it, just like crashing overnight on a bench at Heathrow airport etc. 👍
Been over 20 years since I last got a night bus to Glasgow from London and after that trip I also said never again. Train is so much better at least you can get up and walk around and of course it be under 5 hours. Then the plane but so much hassle getting to airport getting through security. Then get on and of the plane then the trip from Glasgow airport to the city. It will be the train for me. Great videos
A few years ago I shot a video on this channel from George Square (Glasgow) to Trafalgar Square (London). I raced *myself*, with one journey by air and the other by train. Both journeys on paper should have been 5.5 hours in length. As it turned out my train was cancelled, so British Airways won on this occasion, but usually, from city centre to city centre, the train would be the more relaxing (and environmentally friendly) way to travel. 👍 th-cam.com/video/YKiQltCB2yc/w-d-xo.html
'Tonight's torture' made me LOL
Love the videos. It's amazing how these forms of transport have almost been forgotten but are now becoming more popular since higher air fares. I used to take the overnight bus from London to Glasgow frequently during the 90s. It was usually hell as the buses back then we're just cramped local coaches. Used to feel sorry for family's with children as the long journey would be hard to get them to settle. The engine heat would make the bus a sauna in the summer months and the toilets would break down frequently due to the high engine heat evaporating the water in the tank. The drivers would be hesitant to stop anywhere other than scotch corner or southwaite in fear of the cab breaking down or the bus injectors clogging with carbon. Then the late 90s saw the rise of cheap flights, and I coul fly with KLM from STD to GLW In an hour for less than £40 return with an on flight meal. But now Glasgow seem like a very hard place to get to via air, unless you go via Dublin or belfast. So looks like It will be the coach for me now. Your videos have helped me make some choices. Thank you. Can't wait to try the NE now, it looks way more comfortable.
I’m about to go to Scotland on coach tomorrow! Thankyou so much for this! It’s 15:45 to 6:45am Swansea to Glasgow! So helpful !!
Ahh the ashford intl service via maidstone east - where I will live for the next few months before moving :-)
Good video as well!
That must be really nice even for the rain it will give you a nice cozy feeling.
I have a challenge for you mate. In 1990 I worked on a summer camp in America. At the end of the summer I travelled from Worcester Mass. to Santa Monica Ca. on a Greyhound bus. The journey was absolutely amazing but it took four days and nights from Friday till Monday and covered more or less three and a half thousand miles. The Arizona desert at 3am takes some beating!!
How about you try it............
I went by bus from Dublin to Letterkenny. It was a late night journey - not even overnight - on either side of midnight. Never again. All was well till the bus picked up returning holidaymakers at the airport. They had no respect for anyone. Did I say "Never again" already?
Enjoying your travels, wish they were mine. Take comfort, I took the Caledonian Sleeper in 2004 and spent the night trying not to slip off the narrow plastic "cot", with bedding that was shorter than the bed. (That may have all been fixed since then.) Lost power outside of Carlisle, so no ventilation, nothing to mask the sounds of the neighbors... only good thing was unlimited breakfast was provided due to the delay, and we got to see Carlisle to Glasgow in beautiful sunny daylight. A newspaper crew tried to interview me, until I said I was fine with the delay, and the woman said "Oh, I'm sorry. We are looking for people who are upset." LOL!
Thank you for your effort in making good video clips for us. Enjoyed it very much.
When I saw the lights of Harrods it made me think of Mr. Bean. LOL
Reminds of some decades ago with MagicBus 🚌
Interesting video, thank you for sharing 😊
I did the same journey. I fell asleep soon after getting on and woke up just as the journey finished. Excellent service and amazingly cheap. 😚😊
I remember this music from End to End. Love it!
You were dreading the experience, but you gave it a go. Good man yourself - !
my sister just mentioned this ...... thanks for the upload
Thanks for this fantastic video!
The view of Harros was great, despite the rain.
Feels a bit like a transatlantic overnight plane - perfectly alright if you know what to brace yourself for.
Good for you!
I travelled from Perth to London by Megabus a number of years ago for my mates Dad's Birthday. Headed down on the Friday morning, then on to Sussex. The drinking started on the Friday evening, a wee sleep, then off it kicked again on the Saturday afternoon, right through to Sunday morning, when i got a few hours sleep again, before continuing the drinking from Sunday lunch time until my mate and myself had to head back into London to get the night bus back up to Perth. We arrived in Perth at 9am, still drunk, he went home to bed, and didn't surface for about 2 days, and i headed off for a 12 hour shift at my work, which was absolute torture.
I used to do Western SMT to Glasgow and Eastern Scottish to Ediburgh. 1970s.
I traveled Glas-Lon a few times in the late '80's early '90's. Bloody awful, horrible, never to be repeated experience. Got stuck once with a crazy family, at night, singing, smoking and passing round litres of Vodka and Whisky. Hellish. I vowed never to bus it to London ever again. Thanks for you informative video.
Love your honesty, thank you!
I took (more or less) the same Bus but from Edinburgh to Victoria Station 8am to 8pm..and it was a day to remember!! So many hours inside that Bus.. Thanks Godness, it was almost empty. But I remember getting to Victoria Station and running from the Bus like a Bat out of Hell and shouting.. Never more never more!! 🚍🚍🚍
Thank you .
I remember doing this journey in 1982 with the Scottish leyland penine ,it was the luxury coach at the time but the megabus looks way more comfortable
We have no idea, he gave as zero information on it all.
Thanks so much for your information
Lacking detail I'm afraid. What were the seats like ie by how much did they recline , toilets on board, were there refreshments available? Only one driver?
Quick question. Do you know why at Victoria station the bus was numbered M20 (Glasgow) and on arrival at Buchanan Street bus station on arrival the reflection shows M11 (Glasgow).
I was planning to try it later on, thanks for the review, it gave me some insights on what I would experience
The word was comfortable not comparable! Lol
Very enjoyable thanks
I've traveled many a time from Edinburgh to London (and back) in the late 60s/early 70s, it took about 13 hours, nothing luxurious about it.
I've done it a couple of times. It's not so bad if you're prepared. It's always run a bit early when I've been on it, although I'm pretty sure it went direct, only stopping for a driver swap.
They used to run a proper sleeper service with bunks which I used too, it was actually really good. Especially if you were travelling with someone and could share a double bunk with dividers.
All in all, if the price is right I'd say it's worth it. The sleeper train is a plaything for those with too much money.
Used to catch the national express quite a lot years ago. 6 hours up to Scotland. Discovered viz comics one time. That was a new experience
The mehabus from London to Glasgow and return is just fine and if you book in advance it is really cheap
Good vid keep em coming
Great vid! I wish to add comment though - 8 hrs 20 mins on a bus is not too much of a stretch by Australian standards. I once had to take a series of McCafferty's buses from Darwin to Brisbane - changing buses at Tenant Creek, Mt. Isa, and Townsville. Total distance of 3804km. Took over 3 days from memory, but had a great time. Got to meet lots of backpackers and cool people. I used to frequent to Brisbane to Melbourne service - 24 hours straight one way - found it more gruelling than the Darwin - Brisbane trip. Once again - thanks for making this vid, and sleep well!
I did Sydney to Cairns by Ansett Pioneer many years ago - 54 hours. It was a slog but it was a reasonably enjoyable and inexpensive way to get to far North Queensland.
It would interesting to know the commercials of the London-Glasgow journey. Are the savings worth catching a bus? Overnight, at least you’re saving on accommodation outlay otherwise I’m sure I’d love to do it during daylight to see the world go by.
I remember travelling overnight back in the 50,s, I think it was Northern Roadways something like that, I was just a kid so It was quite an adventure for me, we had food supplied on the coach, & one of stops was at Lockerbie.
Always been curious about this journey. Always wanted to do the overnight sleeper train but on the rare occasions they run it, the cost is unjustifiable.
In feb its usually 85 quid
The sleeper train runs from Scotland to London every night
@@CozzaNess well except Saturday night.
The sleeper in BR days was good, I paid about £30 in the 80s which was fair & a nice cuppa from the valet in the morning. If you shared with a unknown traveller it could be tricky with snorers. Now you can get a double bed. Bring back BR.
But you can take the missus and get a double room with en suite and shower for 350 quid... it's not so much of a rip off when you consider the fact it costs like 220+ quid for two adults doing London to Glasgow on the normal train.
One thing I did notice during my research, however, is that brekkie ain't free. I always assumed your breakfast was part of the package. Not so. You've gotta pay for it and I bet it's dear.
This was a really entertaining video. Thanks for sharing and i cant wait for the next one. How. long have you been uploading for?
You can check his upload history
I've done Plymouth to London on the Megabus overnight.
About 6Hours and thats bad enough.
Shoulder to shoulder with a stranger not enough room to sleep.
Only tolerable if you get luck and get 2 seats to yourself. And thats a big gamble.
Back in the late 80's I did Glasgow to Bristol overnight with National Express, not a fun journey
Yes did that myself in July 1986, bus was roasting, not a pleasant journey
Hi Scott, 650kms is like driving from Melbourne Victoria Australia to Wagga Wagga NSW Australia. 😁
I once took the overnight London to Glasgow Mega Bus back in the day when some to of them had beds. Quite strange but also quite memorable.
It must get smelly.
I enjoyed the vid but you could of given us more info, How much was the journey? Was the seats comparable an adjustable, Was there adequate amenities on board, Can you take food on? Is there charging ports for phones etc? . Cheers. 👍😃
I've done the Chester-London-Cambridge all day, attended a funeral the next day and did the return journey that night, all night. I got home the next morning. All during a heatwave. It was a journey to hell and back on single decker coaches. In the end I was so exhausted because I mostly couldn't sleep, felt so travel sick, when I got home I just collapsed on the bed and fell into unconsciousness. I vowed I would never do that again. I could say all the things that went wrong on that journey but it would go on forever.
... and who says the age of adventure travel is long gone. Your journey sounded like a nightmare.
@@PlanesTrainsEverything England to Glasgow, doesn't Scotland have Cities.
Hi great video ive never been on a megabus in fairness but always wanted to do the sleeper train would you ever do that and do a video as it be worth watching, anyways great video as always take care and stay safe Gaz
Brings back many unhappy memories of National Express London to Inverness (change in Glasgow) overnighter back in 98. I'm 6' 3" and the whole thing was grim. Lots of stops through the night so no chance of any sleep even if you weren't crammed in like sardines.
I was in my 20s then and wouldn't even consider it now so fair play to you for hacking it.
You can book a seat on a table for 4 configuration which is what I would do. You can't complain at 10-15 quid & the young can't pay train prices. Why have empty night trains, fill them up at £30 a seat. Makes sense to me. Prices will rise. My diesel is 20p more than unleaded now. Notice that my Aldi puddings have disappeared & weirdly cheese & onion crisps? Ohhhh Ukraine you only had to stay NATO neutral & this terrible war human & monetary costing wouldn't have happened. This all goes back to WW2 Slav ethnic cleansing by SS Ukrainians & the Russians don't forgive. The missile makers are doing well tho..
@@seltaeb3302 Erm, nice speech but I was clearly talking about travel 24 years ago. 🤷🏻♂️
MegaBus was initially not allowed into the Chicago Greyhound Depot. Early on - they picked up at Union Station. Then they got moved to 2 blocks from the station. I have NO IDEA if they are even operating from Chicago. A photog acquaintance used to get super cheap fares and travel around the American Midwest on the cheap, Several of the busses from Chicago were in wrecks - one even caught on fire! Everyone wanted upstairs on the double-deckers. After a while- we never saw them in Chicago routes.,
I couldn't do an overnight coach journey sitting up like this, but I just watched a video about the Los Angeles - San Francisco service where you sleep in a bed on the coach in a little pod. They should introduce this - I'd use it.
They did... it was called Megabus Gold
Superb
Done this journey many times back in the day and it was bloody torture
What amazes me is that the bus drivers don't fall asleep. I would far rather go by train as at least the train would stop if the driver fell asleep in the cab on such a long trip. How much was the coach ticket?
Hi, just found your channel and enjoyed this journey.
Wondering if the overnight coach has slightly more room? If not, I think I would struggle to sleep at all. You’re a brave man.
I have used just about every bus company who run the service and to be honest the best had to be national express in my eyes, with some megabus services there’s a lot of stops on the way up and can make it hard
At night the coach extends for leg room har har..
@@nathangrogan59 Edinburgh route takes 3hr longer than Glasgow, 8 hrs is good, train takes about 11hrs at night.
We did this journey there and ba k several years ago. It was a foul journey. Toilets were still king when we got on and then blocked before we reached Manchester. No comfort stops but driver eventually had to stop at Services to allow passengers use a toilet as a lot of us complained. Absolutely no legroom so I had to sit sideways with my legs dangling into the aisle. I was dreading the return journey and that wasn't any better.
I took the Aberdeen-London overnight National Express a few times in the nineties. I was getting on at Stirling so that cut about a few miles! Once was for a job interview, the next time I was on my holidays. The first time there was an hostess on the bus who served teas and coffees. A few years later that service had ceased. I was gutted because I hadn't taken a flask...😆
I’ve travelled between Glasgow and London by bus before. I never will again unless I have no choice
Hi Joshua, it's driven by price and definitely not the time or comfort factor. 👍
Just found your channel. Subscribed. Loving your content. 👍
I remember taking a coach from Leeds to London a couple of years ago, Boxing Day so no trains running. I actually got travel sick, thought I was going to vomit, took me back to my school boy days. Remarkably unpleasant way to travel, I was dreading the return journey but I didn't feel so rotten going home for some reason. I swore never to travel on a coach for such a journey again, it is cheap but that's all you can say for it.
If I can't get a train these days I drive to see the mighty Spurs, and stay in a hotel so I can enjoy a little drinkee. More expensive of course but happily I can afford the expense, I don't want to travel 'coach class' again!
The local Govt, took the night trains off & reduced the day train to alternate days, otherwise it's a choice of flying + airport trips, or Bus - if your lucky, it's a double decker, if not just a regular truck that's had a makeover for the human cargo.
Like you, can't sleep on buses - put up a good show by closing eyes but staying aware the whole dang trip, which with a change, can make the trip close to 24 hours .
Last time I drove the distance, it took less than 8.30 hours with little traffic to contend with.
Keen to hear - do you have any recommendations for good budget options when you visit London for accomodation?
Nearly 180,000 views, and only 16.7k subs and 2.6k likes... what? Hit those thumbs up and subs buttons, please! Scott is amazing!
I used to do this every month to see my son! Was horrendous! I’ve had some unreal experiences with people on there! Snoring people! Loud people! Rude people! 12+ hours it used to take!
Now I drive! Cost me a lot more but it’s really worth it!
One problem I hadn't anticipated was, by sitting at the front of the upper deck, with the window directly in front of me, there would be no leg room at all. It was a long journey!
@@PlanesTrainsEverything oh I made that mistake once! Best thing to do is pay for 2 seats and take the back corner to yourself so you can lay out t least a little! I did that a few times also! 😁
I don`t know if you know this tip which will save you a fortune while traveling long distance on trains.
When i`m on a long distance train, having 1st booked a good 3 weeks in advance, i always book a 2nd class ticket but, once the train is moving and ONLY when its moving ask the guard if you can upgrade to 1st. It`ll only cost you between £10 - £20 extra on top of your ticket.
Also worth noting to our forgein visitors is to not buy food or drink on trains as well as at stations as they`ll charge as much as they can get away with. Always buy in shops before your journey begins.
I would also suggest to not take anything out of hotel fridges or, even `complamentary ` drinks in hotel rooms. You could be in for a nasty shock when it comes to paying your bill.
I enjoy your videos too, very informative.
Hi Andy. I've hear of that 2nd class to 1st class move before, but have never tried it. In regards to hotel fridges, I usually have a look to see what's there (because I'm nosey), but some hotels have monitors installed, so by even removing a can of Coke because you're desperate, and replacing it the following day, the fridge computer reads it's removal, and charges you at check-out.
@@PlanesTrainsEverything I stayed in a hotel in Mancs a few years ago and there was a fridge there. I replaced everything penny for penny and wasn`t charged. I also ised it for milk which i bought everyday. As long as you replace products like for like, they can`t charge you.
As for the `complimentary bottle of wine` i never touch it. I`ve heard too many tales of unwary people thinking its free when its not.
Only partly true. The £10-20 upgrades are only at weekends and bank holidays. If they offered them during the week they'd lose huge amounts of cash.
@@frasermitchell9183 You may be right there as its only at weekends i`ve used it. I should also note to never travel on a Friday as booking a ticket on that day is more expensive than any other day.
To compete fairly, our whole rain system needs a complete overhaul.
Bless you good stuff you must do a ferry journey up at skye or further north
Hello, thank you for this. How convenient is travelling with this for a mum with a baby? Is there a space for a buggy?
I used to do these overnight coach trips to Inverness on Megabus and the National express 588 service I actually quite enjoyed them and if I get a chance will love to resume doing these again.👍
Brave man
You should try the Inverness to London ( non stop ) mega bus 🚌 😀
Now that ,is , a journey for the serious traveller
Now that idea caught my imagination! I've just looked on the Megabus website but they don't seem to operate a non-stop service at the moment. The best service involves a change at Edinburgh, which is cheating. Still though, that idea is now firmly planted in the back of my head. Thanks for planting the seed of an idea.
@@PlanesTrainsEverything I hope it comes back. I remember if you were lucky enough to get the cabin at the rear you could get privacy .
@@127cmore Or there is the Aberdeen overnighter too
Yep ! Did it in December . Let Inverness at 4.30 pm . Arrived London about 7.55 am . No big deal if you have a long lie in the morning before you leave ?
£ 38 single . Bargain !! Can't stand flying ....so only option.
@@2msvalkyrie529 £ 38. 00 , amazing price ?
worth watching that.. You should have said the cost of the journey and compared to the train
Such a shame their gold service stopped,I thought it was popular,you got a bunk bed on board and it worked.
Done this journey many times over the years. My advice is not to try nodding off until the coach is on the M1 at Brent Cross......
Rather liked the wet windshield. Immersed in the view, thinking of how many choices in each of the ways to travel there is, over there.
I took this trip last night in the same seat! Even with my inflatable pillow and cushion, eyemask and noise-cancelling headphones, I was hard pushed to get any sleep.
Before I learnt to use headphones, the worst part was always other passengers, I don't know why they need to take phone calls and watch videos with the sound on at 2am. I did save a bit of money but I think I might try the new Lumo train next time.
It wasn't as bad last night as when I did it in October, the toilet started leaking all over the floor and everyone on the bottom deck had to hold their noses.
Hi John. I found the main drawback of the front seat was the complete lack of legroom. That hadn't crossed my mind when booking that seat.
Second video I’ve watched of yours today and again no mention of cost. It’s only reason I watched. Was hoping for some information or tips on how to keep the price down. Anyway just a suggestion…….
Excellent 🍾🍾🍾🍾🍾🍾
In the great scheme of things an 8 hour bus journey is not
exactly a re - run of the Shackleton expedition . ? Have a kip
the day before you leave ? What's next ? The epic train journey from Glasgow to Wemyss Bay ?
The thing that bothers me most about long distance bus journeys, apart from not finding it easy or comfortable enough to sleep, is having to keep my legs in the same position for so long. They really start to ache and there's no real way of relieving them. Also travelling on motorways there is not much of interest to see from the windows.
Helen Trope ....travel overnight and have naps......you cant see much from a train either but a train is 20 times the price
@@geoffdundee I've tried it by train with a European inter-rail card. I travelled up Italy by train. Couldn't get to sleep in a seat so had to lie on the corridor floor. The train stopped at stations all night, and I was frequently woken by the banging of the doors as people boarded or left the train. Arrived in Venice about 5.a.m and tried to sleep in the waiting area until the tourist info place opened, but the police kept waking anyone that looked asleep and making them stand up. When we got some accommodation that day my first priority was sleep.
I used to regularly travel to London from Glasgow on Megabus, overnight. There's probably no words in the English language to aptly describe that feeling when you wake up, uncomfortable, at around 3.30am, and realise where you are. A feeling of death really. Not good.
Used go do this journey to visit relatives in Essex...2 Dramamine travel sickness pills and I was out like a light!
Were there reclining seats on the coach? I have travelled many times overnight, not slept well but dozed quite a bit.
They do not recline
How much did it cost?
What were the on-board facilities?
Was it well subscribed with passengers?
Genuinely interested
Agreed . Lots praising the video but it told us nothing really, very disappointing
I haven't taken the Megabus but I've done this route from Edinburgh to London Victoria. There are two rest stops on the way down. Where the coach stops for 20 mins. Your told that you must be back before then otherwise the coach driver will drive off. Sounding very strict.. but I the bus driver did wait a few mins extra on the second stop. I guess this seems to be a attitude towards people who decide that they don't follow schedules. As for toilets.. it was working. Small and cramped and I nearly fell over inside coming into Milton Keynes. If you need a poo. Wait for the rest stops and it's more comfortable. As for passengers. I was very lucky to have a double seat to myself. The seats were extremely uncomfortable and people snored. There was one old cockney geezer chatting nonsense to himself next me for about 4 hours before he finally nodded off. Eventually people on the buss were so uncomfortable that people were sleeping in the gangways blocking access to the toilet.
The bus has a loud hum to it. So even noise cancelling headphones won't work. Unless.they really are worth your salt.
Top tips:
Bring a cushion and pillow.
Take time making your space work for you. Don't listen to the driver. Move bags or make a den or everything and anything you can do to make yourself feel comfortable. As when you do decide to try and make yourself comfortable you will be to tired to try.
Sleep if and when you can as you will feel absolutely exhausted.
Bring movies, games, cards anything that can help whittle the hours down.
Do not I REPEAT! DO NOT AT THE CLOCK.
when light first approaches you will be 2 hours from London Victoria. So that's a good starting point for waking up.
Do not go to the back of the bus unless you want the smell of ouss and shit to waft down near you. Pick the middle back.
Pretend to be a deep asleep when the bus stops and out your bags or feet on the chair beside you as people will not want to disturb you.
Blue lighting sure to keep you awake.