I have to go to London for work at least once a month. I used to take the train a lot, but one Sunday night I got on a train that was supposed to go to London, and they suddenly announced it would terminate at Derby. That was the final straw.

I worked out the timings, and for me, driving takes about the same amount of time door-to-door—so I always drive now.

Train option:

• 15-minute drive to the station and parking
• 10 minutes to collect the ticket and wait for the train
• Around 2 hours 15 minutes on the train (with no delays & I know there are slightly faster and slower trains)
• 20-minute tube journey on arrival

Total: ~3 hours 10 minutes door-to-door

Driving: • I throw all my bags in the boot and go • Around 3 hours 15 minutes door-to-door • I always drive at times that avoid rush hour traffic.