Rail operator National Express has opened a first class lounge at London’s King’s Cross station, despite being on the verge of losing the East Coast franchise.
Situated close to platform 1 and accessible via the York Way entrance, the lounge includes complimentary refreshments (tea, coffee, orange juice, etc), newspapers and wifi internet access - snacks and a full bar service are available on a paid-for basis. There are also photocopier and fax facilities, and electronic departure and arrivals boards.
Holders of the following ticket types are eligible to use the lounge:
- First Open tickets valid for travel on the National Express East Coast route
- National Express East Coast First Class packages
- National Express East Coast First Class Season Tickets.
First Advance and Weekend First tickets are not valid for entry to the lounge, but those travelling on a First Advance ticket, can purchase a £10 supplement ticket, which allows access. This can be purchased on the day of travel at any National Express East Coast travel centre, or at the time a ticket is booked.
Earlier this month the government announced the East Coast rail service is to be taken into public ownership, following an announcement by the National Express Group that it will not provide further financial support to ensure that its subsidiary National Express East Coast remains solvent (see online news July 1).
For more information visit nationalexpress.com.
Report by Mark Caswell
