First Class train ticket prices WTF!!!

FWIW you cannot compare BA business / coach with first / second class rail as the difference in the flying experience is massive, first v second on the train is closer.

Depends on the TOC. 1st class south of London is pretty lame, but on East Coast/Virgin/FGW isn’t bad at all, certainly a worthwhile upgrade when compared to standing in standard class.

I always book well in advance for my monthly Newcastle to Peterbrough Jaunt, It’s normally £10-15 more than a standard ticket which seems pretty fair, I certainlly get that much out of it in terms of the breakfast and coffees, plus I get more loyalty points.

It’s almost always too expensive to even consider on the way home, even with free booze.

There are portions of many journeys where there won’t be first class facilities – you may want to look at splitting your tickets, even if they’re open tickets.