Thameslink First Class: Everything you need to know

Thameslink First Class focuses on improved comfort rather than outright luxury. The benefits are mainly about extra space, quieter surroundings and a more convenient environment, which makes it appealing for both commuters and leisure travellers.

These features include:

• Quieter carriages with fewer passengers than Standard
• Larger seats with extra legroom
• First Class sections are usually located at the ends of trains for a calmer setting
• Power sockets in most First Class sections

Across the train, you'll also find:

• Tables in some carriages, suitable for working or reading
• Free onboard WiFi across the whole train

Note that Thameslink does not provide complimentary food or drinks in First Class.

There are several ways to travel in Thameslink First Class, whether booked in advance or decided on the day.

Booking First Class tickets in advance

The simplest method is to choose First Class when booking your journey online. Booking early usually secures a lower price than buying at the station. Look out for the 'View 1st Class & More Tickets' option once you've selected your ideal travel time.

Buying First Class tickets at the station

Tickets can be purchased at ticket offices or machines before departure. While convenient, these are often more expensive than advance fares.

Upgrading a Standard ticket

If you already hold a Standard ticket, you can upgrade by:

• Speaking to station staff before boarding and paying the difference
• Asking the train conductor about certain services and upgrading onboard

Passengers must hold a valid First Class ticket before sitting in First Class. Without one, a penalty fare may apply.

Weekend First upgrades

Some train operators offer cheaper First Class upgrades at weekends. Thameslink does not regularly advertise these, but it may be worth checking at the station.

Not every Thameslink service has First Class. Longer-distance routes such as Bedford to Brighton, Cambridge to Gatwick, and Peterborough to London usually include First Class. Shorter commuter services within London often do not.

When booking with Trip.com, it is clearly shown if First Class is available for your chosen route. Look out for the 'View 1st Class & More Tickets' after selecting your route.

No, Thameslink does not offer any First Class lounges.

On Thameslink Class 700 trains, First Class is normally located at either the front (Coach 1) or rear (Coach 12) of the train, depending on direction.

The layout includes:

• Seating arranged 2 + 2 with slightly larger seats
• Tables available in some areas
• Power sockets in most First Class sections

Photo by PeterSkuce

Thameslink First Class declassified refers to occasions when some First Class areas are made available to Standard ticket holders. This allows passengers to sit in these sections without paying extra.

Declassification typically occurs when:

• Standard Class is overcrowded during busy times
• Certain carriages are permanently declassified and always open to all passengers
• Demand for First Class is lower, often during evenings or weekends

Passengers should always check the signage or listen to announcements. Not all First Class areas are declassified, and sitting in the wrong carriage without the correct ticket may lead to a penalty fare.

The value of travelling in Thameslink First Class depends on the type of journey.

For short trips within London, the difference compared with Standard is less noticeable. On longer routes, such as London to Brighton, Bedford or Cambridge, the quieter setting, extra legroom and higher chance of finding a seat during peak hours provide real advantages.

Although no free catering is included, First Class offers:

• More comfort and legroom
• A calmer space for working or relaxing
• A better chance of securing a seat at busy times

Ways to make First Class more affordable:

• Book tickets in advance for the lowest fares
• Use a Railcard, which saves up to one third, including on First Class
• Travel off-peak, when fares are cheaper

For many passengers, Thameslink First Class is most worthwhile on longer journeys across the South East, where comfort and calm matter most.

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