SouthEastern high speed service review: how good is the 100% British high speed train?
video description
Date: 2024-01-09
Related videos
Comments and reviews: 35
-noahbowie5985
Londoners are very polite and will always let people off the train first. I was raised that way but the people who push to get on first are long distance commuters. Longer distance commuters are normally so desperate to get home that they'll ditch politeness and courtesy in order to get a seat. I live in London so I don't commute long distances but when I was moving house last year I had to live with my parents for about six months whilst my house was being renovated. My parents live in Bath and after six months of commuting to London I can understand why people are desperate to just get on the train and go home. I've never felt more lucky to live in London. Although I felt pity for the people who commute long distances and then drive back home. I used to have a colleague who lived around a 45 minute drive outside of Bristol but every morning he would drive the 45 minutes to Temple Meeds station before then catching the 2 hour train ride to Paddington station in London then taking another 20 minute tube ride to our offices in the City of London. He has since found work in Bristol and from what I can tell he's much happier. Just when you criticise people for getting on the train before you've got off remember many of them just want to get home and see their kids.
reply
Londoners are very polite and will always let people off the train first. I was raised that way but the people who push to get on first are long distance commuters. Longer distance commuters are normally so desperate to get home that they'll ditch politeness and courtesy in order to get a seat. I live in London so I don't commute long distances but when I was moving house last year I had to live with my parents for about six months whilst my house was being renovated. My parents live in Bath and after six months of commuting to London I can understand why people are desperate to just get on the train and go home. I've never felt more lucky to live in London. Although I felt pity for the people who commute long distances and then drive back home. I used to have a colleague who lived around a 45 minute drive outside of Bristol but every morning he would drive the 45 minutes to Temple Meeds station before then catching the 2 hour train ride to Paddington station in London then taking another 20 minute tube ride to our offices in the City of London. He has since found work in Bristol and from what I can tell he's much happier. Just when you criticise people for getting on the train before you've got off remember many of them just want to get home and see their kids.
reply
-dobbinism
Thanks Thibault, great report again. I quite like this train. It takes quite a long time using the regular commuter lines so there is a huge advantage of making use of the high speed line, plus this helps to relieve overcrowding on the classic services too. I guess the reason you can't join the high-speed track at Folkestone is that many of these trains serve several intermediate stations between Folkestone and Ashford. It will be interesting to see what happens when other high-speed operators are granted a licence to run alongside Eurostar as the Javelins are designed to operate at 225 kph and could slow down any potential increase in rail traffic. As for the passengers trying to board while you were exiting, that's not pleasant but it's also not the norm. might you have hesitated for just a few seconds before heading to the door? I've done that myself and suffered a similar fate. :-)
reply
Thanks Thibault, great report again. I quite like this train. It takes quite a long time using the regular commuter lines so there is a huge advantage of making use of the high speed line, plus this helps to relieve overcrowding on the classic services too. I guess the reason you can't join the high-speed track at Folkestone is that many of these trains serve several intermediate stations between Folkestone and Ashford. It will be interesting to see what happens when other high-speed operators are granted a licence to run alongside Eurostar as the Javelins are designed to operate at 225 kph and could slow down any potential increase in rail traffic. As for the passengers trying to board while you were exiting, that's not pleasant but it's also not the norm. might you have hesitated for just a few seconds before heading to the door? I've done that myself and suffered a similar fate. :-)
reply
-hbruins85
This great video brings back more than a few memories and thoughts for this Japanese rail enthusiast.
Dover Priory was where I first set foot in the UK in August 2005 after 4 fabulous days in Paris followed by a TGV ride to Calais Ville and a SeaFrance ferry ride across La Manche.
Until I actually stepped on the Southeastern Class 375 to London Victoria I so looked up to the UK as the birthplace of the railway. but was I floored by how tight the space was on board.
About 10 years after that I traveled between London and Devon several times in GWR Standard Class, and could not help appreciating the 40-inch seat pitch I get in Shinkansen Standard Class.
I love enjoying British scenery in the comfort of a train with a cup of tea or glass of ale in hand. if only the trains were a bit more comfortable!
reply
This great video brings back more than a few memories and thoughts for this Japanese rail enthusiast.
Dover Priory was where I first set foot in the UK in August 2005 after 4 fabulous days in Paris followed by a TGV ride to Calais Ville and a SeaFrance ferry ride across La Manche.
Until I actually stepped on the Southeastern Class 375 to London Victoria I so looked up to the UK as the birthplace of the railway. but was I floored by how tight the space was on board.
About 10 years after that I traveled between London and Devon several times in GWR Standard Class, and could not help appreciating the 40-inch seat pitch I get in Shinkansen Standard Class.
I love enjoying British scenery in the comfort of a train with a cup of tea or glass of ale in hand. if only the trains were a bit more comfortable!
reply
-doomotron6160
Some points to note, as these are my local train:
- I believe it is possible to get onto HS1 before Ashford but there is no point, as you have to go off of it to get into Ashford International.
- Throughout the video you said that the train was very commuter-like. That's because they are. Even the stopping services at my station have been entirely taken over by them!
- As for the toilet, most British trains have functioning toilets (unless you live in the North I presume. Southeastern are actually very good at train maintenance and running them for the Mainline side (Metro is dire.
Anyway, a good video. Since this trip was more 'local', could you consider doing more of them? How about Charing Cross to Dover in first class? TransPennine Express? Thameslink? TER?
reply
Some points to note, as these are my local train:
- I believe it is possible to get onto HS1 before Ashford but there is no point, as you have to go off of it to get into Ashford International.
- Throughout the video you said that the train was very commuter-like. That's because they are. Even the stopping services at my station have been entirely taken over by them!
- As for the toilet, most British trains have functioning toilets (unless you live in the North I presume. Southeastern are actually very good at train maintenance and running them for the Mainline side (Metro is dire.
Anyway, a good video. Since this trip was more 'local', could you consider doing more of them? How about Charing Cross to Dover in first class? TransPennine Express? Thameslink? TER?
reply
-camjkerman
I live on a route served by HS1 services. I am not a fan of them at all. They slowed down journeys from the Medway Towns in order to make HS1 look faster. The existing regional trains on the classic lines are more comfortable anyway (they have an even smaller seatpitch, that said I'm 5'4- and much prefer a tight seatpitch. One extra thing of note is that you seemed too pleased that the toilet was functional. A working toilet is something we tend to expect on any train, suburban, regional, or intercity. That said, Southeastern have had issues with keeping toilets working lately. But they won't let you use a broken/dirty toilet, they'll have a message on the info screens about toilets being out of order in X coach.
reply
I live on a route served by HS1 services. I am not a fan of them at all. They slowed down journeys from the Medway Towns in order to make HS1 look faster. The existing regional trains on the classic lines are more comfortable anyway (they have an even smaller seatpitch, that said I'm 5'4- and much prefer a tight seatpitch. One extra thing of note is that you seemed too pleased that the toilet was functional. A working toilet is something we tend to expect on any train, suburban, regional, or intercity. That said, Southeastern have had issues with keeping toilets working lately. But they won't let you use a broken/dirty toilet, they'll have a message on the info screens about toilets being out of order in X coach.
reply
-derekstuart5234
Just one small point: at 2: 04 you compare the seats to 'some of the UK's newer HSTs. ' I know HST is a generic term for high speed trains around the World, but here in the UK it's a specific term for a much-loved self contained diesel express, loved by enthusiasts, crews and- crucially- by passengers too.
Large, comfortable padded seats, air conditioning that keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter, sound insulation which makes you think you've gone deaf and some of the best air sprung suspension anywhere on Stephenson's railways.
Their cheap and nasty replacements, however, aren't worthy of comment.
reply
Just one small point: at 2: 04 you compare the seats to 'some of the UK's newer HSTs. ' I know HST is a generic term for high speed trains around the World, but here in the UK it's a specific term for a much-loved self contained diesel express, loved by enthusiasts, crews and- crucially- by passengers too.
Large, comfortable padded seats, air conditioning that keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter, sound insulation which makes you think you've gone deaf and some of the best air sprung suspension anywhere on Stephenson's railways.
Their cheap and nasty replacements, however, aren't worthy of comment.
reply
train
Short, useful and informative. Nice one, however a couple of small points:
The 395 Javelins were actually built as High Speed commuter trains hence the regional feeling expressed throughout the video.
Seeing First Class would have been nice as well, but nevermind - if it doesn't have it then just throw it in as a caption.
Also, WHY IS THERE NO JUNCTION AT FOLKESTONE! Another example of this country's incapability of building railways.
Anyway, great video nevertheless! -
reply
Short, useful and informative. Nice one, however a couple of small points:
The 395 Javelins were actually built as High Speed commuter trains hence the regional feeling expressed throughout the video.
Seeing First Class would have been nice as well, but nevermind - if it doesn't have it then just throw it in as a caption.
Also, WHY IS THERE NO JUNCTION AT FOLKESTONE! Another example of this country's incapability of building railways.
Anyway, great video nevertheless! -
reply
-DanielsUKT
Very nice and scenic trip report I guess southeastern high speed is only high speed London to east Kent then after a commuter train which could be useful when I eventually decide to do bus adventures in Kent but at the end when the commuters push in before letting you off that's very rude I also hate that it's not like the trains gonna go away they can't wait like 5-10 seconds or so for people to get off
reply
Very nice and scenic trip report I guess southeastern high speed is only high speed London to east Kent then after a commuter train which could be useful when I eventually decide to do bus adventures in Kent but at the end when the commuters push in before letting you off that's very rude I also hate that it's not like the trains gonna go away they can't wait like 5-10 seconds or so for people to get off
reply
-ositomaron
I like the Javelin trains. I have travelled on one from Rochester to London St Pancras and the journey was a pleasure. You are right, the seats are far more comfy than the new Intercity Expresses they have introduced on the GWR and ECML. I find those trains not very comfy and the seats too thin and upright. I have a Javelin train set at home
reply
I like the Javelin trains. I have travelled on one from Rochester to London St Pancras and the journey was a pleasure. You are right, the seats are far more comfy than the new Intercity Expresses they have introduced on the GWR and ECML. I find those trains not very comfy and the seats too thin and upright. I have a Javelin train set at home
reply
-Nice_Person7379
I-ve been on this train today. It was not the best not the worst, although IMO the seat itself looked great and the padding was sufficient on the bottom of the seat. The back support was quite firm though but I think with more age the seats will be better
reply
I-ve been on this train today. It was not the best not the worst, although IMO the seat itself looked great and the padding was sufficient on the bottom of the seat. The back support was quite firm though but I think with more age the seats will be better
reply
-russellgxy2905
A high-speed commuter train is a concept that always intrigued me about these units. Sure they only spend about 60 miles or so on actual High Speed tracks, but the fact that they do at all is something admirable
reply
A high-speed commuter train is a concept that always intrigued me about these units. Sure they only spend about 60 miles or so on actual High Speed tracks, but the fact that they do at all is something admirable
reply
-abdullahhakim4409
The BR class 800 is an IET not an HST
The term HST in Britain is related to the class 43 HST train that was created in the 1970s
It is arguable that it is a High Speed Train, but times change terms
reply
The BR class 800 is an IET not an HST
The term HST in Britain is related to the class 43 HST train that was created in the 1970s
It is arguable that it is a High Speed Train, but times change terms
reply
-realman6ft6
Ha I just stop when people try to board a train when I-m trying to get off. They soon realise they have to move aside. That-s commuter time though so it-s every man for themselves to try and find a seat.
reply
Ha I just stop when people try to board a train when I-m trying to get off. They soon realise they have to move aside. That-s commuter time though so it-s every man for themselves to try and find a seat.
reply
-johnnyboy3949
Wow I live in northern england and we always wait for everyone to alight first before boarding! People in london are awful. You really need to come up to northern england. It is so much nicer up here
reply
Wow I live in northern england and we always wait for everyone to alight first before boarding! People in london are awful. You really need to come up to northern england. It is so much nicer up here
reply
-thatoneguy9808
I'm from the UK and I also live in dover and I know why there isn't seat reservations as it does high speed and regional services to so it would be annoying for anyone only on for 1 or more stops
reply
I'm from the UK and I also live in dover and I know why there isn't seat reservations as it does high speed and regional services to so it would be annoying for anyone only on for 1 or more stops
reply
train
You should try Paddington to Penzance in second class. The trains are similar. The HS1 journeys are quite short whereas Paddington to Penzance takes five and a half hours and there is no buffet car.
reply
You should try Paddington to Penzance in second class. The trains are similar. The HS1 journeys are quite short whereas Paddington to Penzance takes five and a half hours and there is no buffet car.
reply
-naturallyherb
Really awesome! Enjoyed these very much when I travelled to Ebbsfleet International to visit a friend who lives near there. Also, there are much larger accessible toilets at the end cars.
reply
Really awesome! Enjoyed these very much when I travelled to Ebbsfleet International to visit a friend who lives near there. Also, there are much larger accessible toilets at the end cars.
reply
-ala0284
I-ve been on a lot of southeastern trains, the interior of this just looks like the rest. Fairly impressive if you think what appears to be a standard regional commuter train can do 140
reply
I-ve been on a lot of southeastern trains, the interior of this just looks like the rest. Fairly impressive if you think what appears to be a standard regional commuter train can do 140
reply
-jakegtr
Did you get a chance to check out some of Greater Anglia-s FLIRTs? Definitely some of Britain-s best regional trains imo (and debatably a better intercity service than on the 80x)
reply
Did you get a chance to check out some of Greater Anglia-s FLIRTs? Definitely some of Britain-s best regional trains imo (and debatably a better intercity service than on the 80x)
reply
-richmayes8451
If you had gone to the toilet at the other end of the train, you would have found a much larger toilet designed for wheelchair access, and has a baby changing facility.
reply
If you had gone to the toilet at the other end of the train, you would have found a much larger toilet designed for wheelchair access, and has a baby changing facility.
reply
-svartmetall48
I have no idea why the Brits always insist on cheap interiors and less comfortable seats. Honestly, it is not really fair given the railways are quite expensive.
reply
I have no idea why the Brits always insist on cheap interiors and less comfortable seats. Honestly, it is not really fair given the railways are quite expensive.
reply
-iman2341
Having watched quite a few of your trip reports its always struck me how busy/full services are in the UK. Would you say in your experience that this is the case?
reply
Having watched quite a few of your trip reports its always struck me how busy/full services are in the UK. Would you say in your experience that this is the case?
reply
-aviator3926
395s are, predominantly, regional trains that can go pretty quick to get them into the Capital to save pathing issues at some other, busier stations in London.
reply
395s are, predominantly, regional trains that can go pretty quick to get them into the Capital to save pathing issues at some other, busier stations in London.
reply
-AndrewG1989
The -ding-a-ling- announcement on the Class 395 is so mesmerising. Always wanted to ride on the Southeastern highspeed train. But it-s so expensive.
reply
The -ding-a-ling- announcement on the Class 395 is so mesmerising. Always wanted to ride on the Southeastern highspeed train. But it-s so expensive.
reply
-shalala4571
Train seems good and functional, altough very -bare minimum- with the interior. Or bare bones? I dont know the best word for it. Nice vid
reply
Train seems good and functional, altough very -bare minimum- with the interior. Or bare bones? I dont know the best word for it. Nice vid
reply
train
The reason it feels quite like a regional train is because it acts as on on the Kent mainlines and only really does proper HS service on HS1
reply
The reason it feels quite like a regional train is because it acts as on on the Kent mainlines and only really does proper HS service on HS1
reply
-creepovec. 9099
Mmmmh, high speed rails, I wish I ever got on to one. Definitely would like to see more high speed trains. :>
Cheers. - Creep
reply
Mmmmh, high speed rails, I wish I ever got on to one. Definitely would like to see more high speed trains. :>
Cheers. - Creep
reply
-thefockinfury7497
I don-t understand why these trains top out at 140mph when the line is capable of higher speeds. What-s the logic in that?
reply
I don-t understand why these trains top out at 140mph when the line is capable of higher speeds. What-s the logic in that?
reply
-pilot_luca5816
. I buy TS3 London edition and I was thinking that the Javelin and the E320 were the same trains but no btw
reply
. I buy TS3 London edition and I was thinking that the Javelin and the E320 were the same trains but no btw
reply
-Arltratlo
they must be happy now in the UK, since a few people left for the EU, the trains are not more so overcrowded!
reply
they must be happy now in the UK, since a few people left for the EU, the trains are not more so overcrowded!
reply
train
I use this train regularly, it-s very good although it-s a shame it-s always packed and doesn-t have a 1st class
reply
I use this train regularly, it-s very good although it-s a shame it-s always packed and doesn-t have a 1st class
reply
train
I love your videos! They are great, really great. Can you try the Transpennine Express Train: Class 185? Please?
reply
I love your videos! They are great, really great. Can you try the Transpennine Express Train: Class 185? Please?
reply
-alexdev5809
Southeastern really needs to get rolling stock capable of at least 186mph for the faster sections of HS1
reply
Southeastern really needs to get rolling stock capable of at least 186mph for the faster sections of HS1
reply
train
Lol it is no an HST in the sense that most people would refer to HST when talking about an Intercity 125
reply
Lol it is no an HST in the sense that most people would refer to HST when talking about an Intercity 125
reply
-alexverdigris9939
-Welcome back to our lovely neighbour, the United Kingdom-.
Top score for the sarcasm.
reply
-Welcome back to our lovely neighbour, the United Kingdom-.
Top score for the sarcasm.
reply
Add a review, comment
Other channel videos
