We like hearing all about other people's commutes — we're nosy like that — whether it's a lengthy train journey in from the Home Counties, a tube ride across London, or a 20 minute walk, door to door. Today, we meet Market Research Manager Paul who lives in Surbiton and works in central London.
What route do you take and which methods of transport do you use?
Surbiton to Charing Cross; train from Surbiton to Waterloo and then I walk across Hungerford Bridge to get to the office.
How long does it take?
One hour door-to-door most days, but it can be double that if something goes wrong.
How long have you been doing this commute for?
20 years with a few years missing when I’ve changed jobs. Train companies come and go but Surbiton's a real commuter town so there must be loads of people who've done the same as me
Do you usually get a seat?
Sometimes on the way into work, but only because I've figured out where to stand on the platform so I'm near to the doors when they open. I'm not the only one who has their 'spot' on the platform. On the way back I always get a seat because the trains start from Waterloo.
How much does it cost?
£1,848 for an annual season ticket. Season ticket loans from employers really come in handy.
Main bugbears?
Two things. You get weeks of spot on service and then one incident causes chaos for a day... and the next day too.
The other issue is serious overcrowding on the platform on the return journey at Surbiton. The station is a listed building so all attempts to change the layout have been turned down. It's a lovely art deco station, but can't cope with the number of passengers using it now.
Any regular characters or commuting friends?
Not anymore. There used to be people who would get on the same train as you in the same carriage and you would chat. Work has changed from the days of everyone doing 9-to-5 in the same office, so that doesn't happen anymore. For example, my train is a bit quieter on Fridays because people take that as a working at home day.
Paul thinks his regular train guards Martin and Bob deserve a shout out because "they go the extra mile to keep us entertained and informed". You can follow Martin on Twitter @MartinTheGuard.
Want to contribute details of your journey to our What's Your Commute? series? Get in touch with [email protected]
