Thanks so much for all of the extremely helpful replies (and the welcomes). These responses are wonderful - it would probably have taken me months to find out all of this myself.

It's looking like the best option may be to use the Abergavenny-Newport-Paddington route, using advance tickets where possible, and splitting the journey as suggested when advance tickets are not available. Thanks for that tip - I had no idea that journeys can be made significantly less expensive by being split up.

I'm aware that the Worcester/Cotswold route is lengthy and slower, so I'll probably save that one for sightseeing trips. Driving to Bristol Parkway could also be an option (will check ticket prices), but the downside would be that I would be at the mercy of the M4 and the Severn Crossing (not to mention parking at the station itself).

Thanks again for the really helpful tips,

Craig

 

I am planning to relocate to the Abergavenny area (back home!) in spring 2014, but for work reasons I will need to spend around three nights a week in London. Therefore I am looking into options for weekly commuting between Abergavenny and London Paddington.

Does anyone out there make this journey regularly and if so do you have any tips on making the train journey more convenient and specifically affordable? I have been pretty horrified at the price of standard tickets, especially at peak hours which is when I would have to travel. Advance tickets seem to be much more affordable but naturally allow no flexibility.

Any tips would be gratefully received - thanks in advance!

Craig