Just 47 minutes journey time from London Liverpool Street to the airport. Travel in comfort, save time and money with these cheap ticket deals.

We also have a guide to Gatwick Express promotional code and discount tickets, there’s plenty of bargains on offer.

Stansted Express Promotion Code and 2013 Discount Tickets – Quick Links

Stansted Express Promotion Code 2013

When there’s Stansted Express promotional code deals, we’ll have them here. In the meantime, check out other discount tickets which are available.

25% OFF WebDuo

For two adults travelling between London Liverpool Street or Tottenham Hale and Stansted Airport, or the other way. Select two adults, Standard Return when ordering online to get the offer.

Just £12 per person, each way. 25%OFF WebDuo tickets. *Online Exclusive Offer *

50% OFF Groupsave

Three or four adults pay the price of two when travelling together between London Liverpool Street or Tottenham Hale and Stansted Airport.There’s even five adults for the price of three deals.

Fares from only £8 per person, each. way. Save 50% with Groupsave fares. * Online Exclusive Offer *

Railcard Discounts

You can get Railcard savings with the following:

• Senior Railcard
• Family and Friends Railcard
• 16-25 Railcard
• Disabled Persons Railcard
• HM Forces Railcard
• New Deal Railcard

With discounts of 34% or more, it makes sense to use your Railcard when booking tickets.

If you don’t have a Railcard or need to renew, there’s online discounts available when purchasing National Railcards.

There’s also Stansted Express promotion code and offers for First Class customers.

First Class Offers

First Class customers can enjoy a more comfortable journey. This includes both improved First Class carriages, and First Class lounges at both ends of the line.

If you’re travelling on business or leisure First Class customers enjoy:

• extra large seats and more legroom
• Stansted Airport fast-track security pass
• entry to and benefits of using No. 1 Traveller lounge at Stansted Airport
• entry to the First Class lounge London Liverpool Street (Platform 10)
• compliementary refreshments
• comfortable workspaces

Find out more about this First Class travel offer.

It’s not just Stansted Express promotion codes and discounts that mean you should travel with them.

Why travel with Stansted Express?

Standard Class – Great Value

Standard Class is great value and has modern, roomy carriages. Standard Class customers enjoy:

• air-conditioned carriages
• spacious,modern and comfortable seating
• easy access luggage compartments
• at seat refreshments

FREE Wi-fi

Free wi-fi is available on all journeys for both Standard and First Class customers.

It’s set up free w-fi access when you’re on the train.

Save Money

Stansted Express promotion codes and discounts will make your journey cheaper. Don’t forget to check for the latest money saving offers.

Save Time

It takes just 47 minutes to travel from London Liverpool Street to the airport. From Tottenham Hale it’s even quicker at 36 minutes.

There’s no other trains from London to Stansted Airport, so unless you want to take a costly taxi, you’ll have to take a much slower coach or bus.

So, ensure you’re getting the best savings with Stansted Express promotion codes and discount tickets.

If you’re travelling on the Gatwick Express check our how to save money guide on your journey.

Stansted Express 2013 Promotion Code and Discount Cheap Train Tickets is an article on Green Abode. We show you how to save money with green travel, green energy and energy saving.

Get to the airport in just 30 minutes from London Victoria.

Trains leave every 15 minutes.

Travel in comfort with modern, air-conditioned, Express class.

Gatwick Express Promotional Code 2013 and Online Discounts – Quick Links

Gatwick Express Promotional Codes 2013

Gatwick Express promotional codes 2013 are updated to give you the best deals. If they’re available will have them here. The best deals available today are the online exclusive offers.

10% OFF Standard Anytime Return Tickets

Enjoy your holiday knowing that you’ve saved money and made your journey easier.

10% OFF Standard Anytime Return tickets when you buy online.

Save £3.85 per adult and discounts on child fares. * Online Exclusive Offer *
 

10% OFF Single Anytime Tickets

For added flexibility and suitable for longer tips, you can also save on Single journeys.
 
10% OFF Single Anytime tickets for both Standard and First Class. Save £2.15 for Adults (Standard) and £1.10 per Child. * Online Exclusive Offer *

10% OFF Single Tickets >>
 
Gatwick Express promotional code 2013 and discounts on train tickets are only available if you purchase from their website. Get the best money and time savings when you buy online.

25% OFF Web Duo Anytime Return

Perfect for two adults travelling together, speed up your journey and save £££.

25% OFF Web Duo Anytime Return is available for return journeys which start from London (Victoria). Save a whopping £18.15 when you book online. * Online Exclusive Offer *

25% OFF Web Duo >>

Gatwick Express promotional code 2013 and discounts are also available for groups of three or more people. The more that travel, the more money you can save!

50% OFF 4 for 2

Groups of four people get even more savings.

50% OFF 4 for 2 discount tickets when four people travel together. Available for both Single and Return journeys, Adults and Child, and Standard and First Class. * Online Exclusive Offer *

Discounts will be added automatically. Save £54.40 on Return journeys (Standard – Adult)

33% OFF 3 for 2

If you’re travelling in groups of three, you’ll also get a big discount.

33% OFF 3 for 2 discount tickets when three travel together. Available for both Single and Return journeys, Adults and Child, and Standard and First Class. * Online Exclusive Offer *

Savings will be added automatically when you book your tickets. Save £23.35 on Return journeys (Standard – Adult)

5 for 3 Savings

If you’re travelling in groups of five, big savings online.

5 for 3 discount tickets when you travel together. Available for both Single and Return journeys, Adults and Child, and Standard and First Class. * Online Exclusive Offer *

Price reductions are added automatically. Save £55.55 on Return journeys (Standard – Adult)

Gatwick Express promotional code 2013 and discount offers are also available for a variety of different tickets from, railcard holders, students, First Class, Carnet, Season tickets and more.

Railcard Discounts

Railcard holders and students can further savings with additional 1/3 OFF discounts on tickets. * Online Exclusive *

If you have the following Railcards you are entitled to add further savings to your fares:

• 16-25 Railcard
• Senior Railcard
• Family and Friends Railcard
• Disabled Persons Railcard
• HM Forces Railcard

If you’d like to get 10% savings on National Railcards and find out about what Railcards are available, check out the Green Abode guide to Railcard promotional codes and offers.

Student holders of an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) can get 25% OFF fares, however, these must be purchased from a ticket office.

FREE Traveller Lounge – First Class

First Class customers can get even more comforts at the airport.

FREE access to the Traveller Lounge at both the North and South Terminals of Gatwick Airport. FREE services to enjoy include wi-fi, light meal, newspapers and magazines.
To get this offer, book a First Class Anytime Return online. * Online Exclusive Offer *

Day Return Savings

If you’re returning same day, savings are available for Day Return journeys.

Standard and First Class, Anytime and Off-Peak, and Adults and Children can get discounts on Day Return tickets. Savings vary depending on your journey.

Find out more about this offer, and save money online. * Online Exclusive Offer *

10 for 8 Carnet

If you’re a frequent user of the Gatwick Express, Carnet tickets may offer bigger savings.

10 for 8 Carnet tickets are available for both Standard and First Class.Save £38 (Standard) and £55 (First Class).

To get these savings you must buy your tickets at the station, find out more about 10 for 8 Carnet savings.

Season Ticket

If you’re a regular daily user, season tickets offer big money savings.

Just one week can save you £104.50 on five Standard journeys. Discounts get higher for monthly and yearly season tickets.

Find out more about how to save with season tickets.

Gatwick Express Timetable

Gatwick Express trains leave every 15 minutes between Monday and Saturday.

On Sundays services run every 30 minutes, instead of every 15 minutes until 5th May 2013. This is due to track improvement works.

Make sure you don’t miss your train, check the timetable.

Why Travel with Gatwick Express?

Save Money with Gatwick Express 2013 promotional code and online discounts:

• 10% Savings for single travellers
• 25% Reductions for two travellers
• Up to 50% OFF for groups of three or more
• Save money on costly taxi fares and airport parking
• FREE Traveller Lounge for First Class customers
• Children under five FREE

Express Class

Express Class is a relaxing way to travel with air-conditioning and comfortable modern seating. Sit back and watch London transition into Sussex countryside.

Full refreshments are available and there is plenty of room for your holiday or trip luggage.
 

Save Time on your journey

• Mobile and Email ticketing
• Speedier journey to the airport
• Less hassle
• More convenience
• No queueing!

Gatwick Express Brighton Services

Six trains morning trains between 06.30 and 07.44 depart from Brighton. Journey times to Gatwick Airport, average 34 minutes.

Returning to Brighton, six trains depart London Victoria 17.32 and 18.44 in the evening. First stop is Gatwick Airport and then on towards Brighton.

Gatwick Express promotional code 2013 and online savings offer the best money saving discounts, for a more comfortable and convenient way to travel.

Gatwick Express Promotional Code 2013 and Cheap Online Tickets Deals is an article on Green Abode. We show you how to save money with green travel, green energy and energy saving.

There’s never been a better time to get on your bike!

Wiggle Voucher Codes – May 2013

Wiggle has a huge range of bikes and cycling equipment. Free delivery is offered on most UK orders.

7 day test rides are available on all bikes and they offer a straightforward returns policy.
 

Wiggle offer an excellent loyalty scheme with Gold and Platinum discounts of up to 12% OFF. For non-loyalty members, they are constantly running great deals and Wiggle voucher codes.

Wiggle Deals and Offers – May 2013

• 50% OFF Red Hot Sale
• Basso Bikes 35% OFF
• 25% Savings on Wheels
• 40% OFF Giordana Clothes
• Clearance and Price Drop offers

Wiggle >>

Merlin Cycles Voucher Codes – May 2013

Merlin cycles started by specialising in mountain bikes and now offer a full range of cycling equipment.

They are the UK’s biggest independent mountain bike manufacturer and can build bespoke bikes within just 7 to 10 days.

Merlin Cycles offer a VIP club with exclusive membership benefits including 10% OFF purchases over £50, special promotional offers, Merlin Cycles voucher codes and newsletter.

Merlin Cycles Deals and Offers – May 2013

• 10% OFF or 5% OFF Everything – ONLINE SALE
• FREE UK Shipping
• Dura Ace 7800 – Half Price Clearance
• Shimano XT M765 Dual Control Disk Breaks – Only £79.99!
• Lusso Coolite Short Sleeve Journey - SAVE 43%
• Cambelbak SPECIAL OFFERS
• SAVE 25% Curve Saddles

Merlin Cycles >>
 

Chain Reaction Cycles Voucher Codes – May 2013

Chain Reaction Cycles established in 2005 has five core values: to sell at the best possible price, to only sell quality products, to be honest as to whether they have an item in stock, to always be there for customers and to endeavour to always dispatch good the day they were ordered.

Chain Reaction Cycles has the largest stock of specialist cycling components in the world.

Chain Reaction Cycles Deals and Offers – May 2013

• FREE Delivery on All Orders
• Spring Clearance Sale
• 10% OFF Nukeproof Body Armour
• TLD Helmets SAVE 15%
• 50% DISCOUNT Royal Clothing

Chain Reaction  >>
 

Evans Cycles Voucher Codes – May 2013

Evans Cycles is a classic name for bikes and cycling accessories. They have a Price Match policy where they will match the price on any product. Also, if you buy from Evans Cycles and see a cheaper price within the next 7 days, they will refund the difference.

Evans Cycles has a 30 days test ride and have an excellent returns policy. They also run constant promotions and Evans Cycles voucher codes.

Evans Cycles Deals and Offers - May 2013

• FREE Delivery on all UK Orders
• Road Bikes SAVE 25%
• 10% OFF Castelli Clothing
• Camelbak Bags 10% SAVINGS
• 40% Discount on Bike Lights
• Tyres 25% Savings

Evans Cycles >>
 

Leisure Lakes Bikes Voucher Codes – May 2013

Leisure Lakes Bikes have over 30 years experience in cycling. They have seven high street stores in the UK and offer a FREE Ship to Store service on bikes.

Leisure Lakes Bikes has a VIP Club which offers great discounts and a Cycle to Work scheme. They’re always running Leisure Lakes voucher codes and discounted prices on cycling gear.

Leisure Lakes Bikes Deals and Offers – May 2013

• FREE UK Shipping
• 55% OFF 2012 Bikes
• Giro Helmets 25% OFF
• Exposure Lights SAVE 25%
• Cambelbak SALE

Leisure Lakes Bikes >>
 

Cycle Surgery Voucher Codes – May 2013

Cycle Surgery has 23 high street stores as well as their web site offering everything from electric, urban, road and mountain bikes.

Cycle Surgery Deals and Offers – May 2013

• 0% Finance on Bikes
• ONLY £10 for 3 Specialized Inner Tubes
• Buy One Tyre and get another Half Price
• 25% OFF selected Garmins

Free delivery is available throughout the UK mainland. They operate a price match guarantee and a hassle free returns policy.
Cycle Surgery >>

Pro Bike Kit Voucher Codes – May 2013

Pro Bike Kit is specialises in road, track and other racing bikes. They offer free delivery in the UK. Pro Bike Kit operate a loyalty scheme called PBK Points where you can get discounts.

If you’re looking for pro cycling team kit, this should be your first point of call.

Pro Bike Kit Deals and Offers – May 2013

• FREE Shipping on all items
• 20% Vittoria Tyres and Tubes
• FREE High5 Race Sample Pack when you spend £50 or more
• 50% OFF 7 Day Deals
• Chains 50% Savings
• Bundle Deals 40% SAVINGS

Pro Bike Kit >>
 

Cycle Store Voucher Codes – May 2013

Cycle Store has over 20 years experience in the cycling industry and have a high street shop in Chesire and an online store. They offer a returns policy of up to 14 days after you have purchased.

Discounts are available on Total Cycle Assist (free bike repair, free replacement and more) via Cycle Store.

Cycle Store Deals and Offers – May 2013

• 80% OFF Exclusive Offers
• Cycle Clothing 50% OFF
• Bike Clearance SALE
• FREE Worldwide Delivery on All Orders

Cycle Store >>
 

Rutland Cycling Voucher Codes – May 2013

Rutland Cycling started over 25 years ago as a small family business. In 2005 they launched their website to compliment their high street stores.
 

Rutland offer a custom build service for customers looking for something more unique and comfortable.

Rutland Cycling Deals and Offers – May 2013

• Save 42% on SRAM Pumps
• 0% Finance Available 
• 80% OFF Deals of the Week
• Clearance Bikes, Apparel, Components and Accessories

Rutland Cycling >>
 

Halfords Voucher Codes – May 2013

Halfords has an extensive range of cycles, equipment and accessories. They offer a service to build your bike for FREE and get a FREE 6 week service.
 

You can reserve and collect or buy your bike online. The Halfords web site has an advice centre, buyers guides and frequently asked questions.

Halfords Bikes Deals and Offers – May 2013

• Road Bikes from only £299 
• Huge Savings on Boardman, Trax, Apollo and Carrera Bikes

Halfords >>

Cycling Voucher Codes from Merlin, Chain Reaction, Wiggle, Evans Cycles and More – May 2013 is an article on Green Abode. We show you how to save money with green travel, green energy and energy saving.

For many the main draw of the Levant Mine is to see the only remaining Cornish steam beam engine still in operation. You get a whole lot more than that, however, with this excellent value day out from the National Trust.

For just £7.20 for adults and £3.60 for children (includes Gift Aid contribution) you get a tour of Levant Mine and Beam Engine. That’s not all, however, as you also get a tour to the Botallack Mine. This is also set in an area of outstanding and beautiful coastal scenery.

Of course, for those sensible enough to benefit from fantastic value 2013 National Trust Membership deals, the whole day out is free. Well almost free as the Trust’s annual membership will pay for itself in just a handful of visits to their properties in England and Wales.

Panoramic view of Levant Mine near St Just in Cornwall ©National Trust Images/David Noton

National Trust bringing Levant Mine and Beam Engine back to life

If there was ever such a thing as a Cornish tin and copper mining graveyard then we’d just arrived. As we’d find out, however, thanks to the National Trust there was a lot more life going on in these buildings than first meets the eye.

We entered the small ticket office and shop to be greeted by an expectant group of smiling tourists. It quickly became clear that we had arrived just in time to catch the start of the main tour.

Our passionate and professional guide Tom brought the mine back to life with his detailed knowledge of the history of the Levant Mine and Beam Engine.

Levant ‘the mine under the sea’

The Levant Mine and Beam Engine is part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage site in the St. Just district of Cornwall. It was often referred to as the ‘mine under the sea’ due to the length and depth of the mine that was literally under the Celtic Sea (which is part of the Atlantic Ocean).

At the start of our tour Tom showed us where one of the mine shafts started at the bottom of the cliff. This really makes you think about how tough things were on a couple of hundred years ago, with just ropes and wood protecting miners from the crashing Atlantic Ocean and jagged rocks.

The Levant Mine stretched out one and third miles out to sea and was over 2,000 feet deep. This is a staggering feat of engineering when you consider that these shafts were dug by hand.

Of course, there was a financial motivation as Levant Mine was rich in copper and tin, and it was a lucrative investment for those that financed it. The miners and their families who processed the minerals, however, were not so lucky.

The miners of Levant Mine

At its peak the Levant Mine employed 700 people, of which half were underground, and the other half above ground.

During the c18th and c19th there were three shifts for miners, as the mine was worked 24 hours a day. These shifts lasted for six hours, which did not include the time it took to get down to the mine, and back out again, which in itself took hours.

From an interview with a captain of Levant Mine we learned that working for more than six hours in the heat and dry atmosphere of the mine would kill a man. This was not only back breaking work, it could also literally kill you.

In the late c19th and early c20th Levant Mine we learned that the mine moved to two shifts per day, which gave some relief to the workers.

Processing copper and tin at Levant Mine

Chimney at Levant Mine, Cornwall is surrounded by spectacular coastline and natural beauty on the Atlantic Coast of England

Of course, digging was just half the job of getting to the tin and copper ore. Whilst the men were down the mine, it was left to the women and children (boys up to the age of 10 who then worked in the mines) to go through the painstaking process of separating the ore from rock.

To extract the copper ore they would start with eight or nine pound long sledgehammer, and then move to a three pound long handled sledgehammer. Finally, they’d use two small handled hammers to break it down further and extract the copper. For this arduous work they’d get paid five shillings per week.

Extracting tin was even more difficult as only 2% to 3% of the original football sized rock was actual tin ore. The hammering would continue until the rock and tin was one and half inches long.

It was then transported by railway to another part of the Levant Mine where it would go through a complex washing process. This was required to separate the heavier tine from the rest of the rock.

Copper and iron ore was then transported overland to Penzane, and then shipped for smelting in Swansea.

Mining at Levant continued until one of the worst moments in Cornish mining history occurred just after the First World War.

Levant Mine disaster 1919

In 1919 Levant Mine witnessed one of the worst mining disasters in Britain. The ‘man engine’ which transported miners up and down the shafts broke, leading to the deaths of 31 miners.

What was once seen as a revolutionary way to bring workers to and from the mines was now the cause of a catastrophic event. After the Levant Mine disaster, the mine never really recovered and was subsequently closed down in 1930 during the economic depression.

Whilst on the tour you see the entrance to the ‘man engine’ which is a very moving experience to think that 31 men that entered the mine that fateful day in 1919 never returned again.

National Trust restoration

In 1967 Levant Mine and Beam Engine was transferred to the National Trust who started to restore the buildings and open them to the public. In the early 1990s a team of enthusiasts named the ‘Greasy Gang’ started a fundraising appeal to restore the Beam Engine back to working order.

Levant Beam Engine

Close view of part of the pump mechanism, spanner and oilcan, in the engine house of the Levant beam engine, a restored steam-powered Cornish beam engine once used to hoist ore from Levant Mine near St Just, Cornwall ©National Trust Images/Ian Shaw

The highlight of the Levant Mine tour for many people — particularly industrial age, engineering and steam enthusiasts — is seeing the beam engine working. It’s the only Cornish mining beam engine which is still working at its original site, and seeing it in action is a very unique experience.

What amazed me was how quiet the beam engine was and the elegance of movement whilst it was in operation. How steam engines work is completely alien to many people, however, the workings was clearly explained by the National Trust team.

When the beam engine was operating you could get a real sense of what it was like working at Levant Mine. The National Trust and volunteers have done a tremendous job bringing it back to life.

Levant Mine and Beam Engine tour final thoughts

Set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean the Levant Mine and Beam Engine is a wonderful experience for visitors. It’s just one of hundreds of reasons why you should join the National Trust.

If you’d like to find out more about Levant you can visit the National Trust website. Note – it’s only open on Friday during the winter months.

This was only part of the tour as it also included a spectacular coastal walk to Botallack Mine and a visit to the Coin House. That’s another post, however, so look out for that in the future.

In the meantime you go to the National Trust website to find out more about what the work they’re doing in Cornwall, and the rest of England and Wales.

Have you visited Levant? We’d love to know your experiences in the comments below.

About Chris King
Chris is the owner and author of Green Abode. To find out more about Chris, visit the about page. If you’d like to stay in contact, you can sign up to the FREE newsletter. Or, we’d love to hear from you on Twitter and Google+.

Great Value Day Out with the National Trust at Levant Mine and Beam Engine in Cornwall is an article on Green Abode. We show you how to save money with green travel, green energy and energy saving.

We’ve found ‘101 Green Christmas Gift Ideas’ for you. Well we lied, there’s actually 102!

Our first one is National Trust Gift Membership, which ticks all the boxes for us. For great days out and loads of other goodies, check out this amazing deal.

On the pages you can link to below, there’s another 99 eco-friendly Xmas present ideas for you.

We’ve saved two more for you at the end of this article, including a leading UK children’s charity that needs your help today.

Green Xmas Presents for Kids – Top 10 for All Year Round Days Out
Christmas is for kids and we’ve chosen some perfect presents for the great outdoors. 365 days a year fun and education starts here.

Green Christmas Gifts for Her – Top 10 Winter Warmers
Whether you’re buying for your girlfriend or your gran, these winter warmers will definitely please. Get snug for the winter with these ethical and gorgeous gifts.

Cycling Voucher Codes and Christmas Special Offers
Yep, we’ve found 14 of the top online cycling stores and 70+ deals and discount codes. Keep an eye on the offers as we’ll be keeping it up to date.

Get Safe and Save Money at Xmas with Solar Security Lights
This is the perfect present for the parents or the man in the house. It really is a Merry Christmas with free power and no running costs!

How Charity Christmas Card Made Me Write This
Did you know that one billion cards get wasted every year? We’ve found 10 charities for you to support this Xmas.

Energy Saving Kettles – 10 Ways to Save on Your Brew
What does every British person have in common? Yes, we all like a brew. If it’s time to get a new one, choose an energy efficient kettle.

10 Solar Gadgets You Must Have for Christmas
New technologies in solar is bringing in a whole wave of new products. We’ve picked 10 of the most popular gadgets available.

Why Solar Fairy Lights Are Almost Always for Christmas
If you’ve not bought them for your decorations, then why not buy them as a gift? Great all year round at home and away.

Organic Cotton T-Shirts – Top 10 UK Online Stores
If you choose organic you are saying no to deadly fertilisers and chemicals, and very often yes to improved working conditions for cotton farmers.

OK, so now we’re at 100. Here’s our last two in the 101 (102) Green Christmas Gift Ideas selection.

Barnado’s – Sponsor a Child

If you want to really help others in need this Christmas or you really can’t face all the crass consumerism then why not Sponsor a Child at Barnados.

Barnado’s is helping 100,000 vulnerable children and young people across 415 projects in the UK who are growing up in very difficult circumstances – coping with poverty, family illness, parental alcohol misuse, homelessness, disability and bereavement.

What you will get for your Barnado’s Child Sponsorship

• a lolly stick character which represents you from your sponsored child
• personalised web site where you’ll get feedback from your sponsored child and social worker
• a gift showing that you’re a Barnado’s child sponsor

Sponsor a Child with Barnado’s >>

101 Green Christmas Gift Ideas is an article on Green Abode. We show you how to save money with green travel, green energy and energy saving.

To celebrate the occasion in 2012, there’s some amazing Wiggle Tour de France discounts codes and daily special offers. Be inspired by the super athletes athletes that pedal their way up and down France, and Get on Yer Bike!
 

Wiggle is staging a special Tour de France sale, with special offers. Deals will change every day, so check out the Wiggle website regularly to see the latest deals.

So whether you’re a dedicated mountain biker or a city cycle commuter it’s definitely the right time to treat yourself to anything from a shiny new bike to a natty helmet or cycling shoes.

Wiggle also offers FREE delivery to all of the UK for almost every item they sell.

Wiggle Tour de France Competition – Win a VIP Trip

Wiggle has teamed up with Garmin to offer a competition to win a two day VIP package for two people to see the 2012 Tour de France. It’s an amazing prize for race lovers. You will get to see the race up close throughout both days, including watching it from helicopter.

To enter the Wiggle Tour de France competition, simply purchase a Garmin product from Wiggle. All entries must be in by 4 July 2012. More information can be found on the Wiggle website.

More Wiggle Specials Offers

Price drop - Wiggle has price drop offers on their site running all the time. Grab a bargain on these items as prices drop by 1% each day. The Wiggle Price Drop keeps falling until items are sold.

Sale - Wiggle has 1000′s of great deals on cycling, running, swimming and triathlon great for men and women. Get even more bargains at the Wiggle Sale.

Cycling on the up and up

And these offers are coming at a fantastic time to get cycling again. It’s healthy, eco-friendly and, with fuel price hikes, a great affordable, money-saving way to get around.

High profile schemes like London’s new ‘Boris bikes’ have also inspired more and more people to switch to pedal power. And with more cyclists on the roads, the safer it becomes to cycle. After years of the dominance of the car it’s now realistic to make the daily commute by bike.

Make the most of Wiggle Tour de France discount codes and daily special offers to grab yourself a bargain.

Wiggle Offers >>

Wiggle Tour de France Discount Codes and Daily Special Offers is an article on Green Abode. We show you how to save money with green travel, green energy and energy saving.

If you want some great deals, Virgin trains promo codes 2013 are occasionally available. Unfortunately, there’s currently none around but we’ll let you know as soon as we find them.

There’s no need to wait for a Virgin Trains promo code to get the best deals in 2013. We’ve found 20 ways that you can save money with the UK’s number one rail operator.*

Virgin Trains Best Fare Finder

If you’re flexible with your travel dates and travelling on their network, the the Best Fare Finder is the place to start.

In three simple steps (using the Best Fare Finder to the right):

1. Select where you’re travelling from and to, a single or return, and the day you would like to travel
2. Amend the date and/or time to find cheaper deals
3. Select the exact time and date you want to travel, and book online

Here’s 20 ways to Save Money in 2013 and remember there are No booking fees and No credit and debit card charges when you book direct.

Virgin Trains Promo Code 2013

Advance Tickets

Advance tickets can be booked up to three months before you take your journey. They’re even available to buy right up till Midnight the day before you travel.

If you have a particular date and time in mind you can book via the standard booking form. Alternatively, if you’re flexible about when you travel you can try the Best Fare Finder.

Off-Peak

If you combine Advance with Off-Peak you can also better savings on fares. In fact, they’re usually better than any Virgin Trains promo code deals.

Generally, Off-Peak times are weekends, Bank Holidays, and outside of rush hour on weekdays. Depending on the route, however, Off-Peak times do vary. You can find this information on their website.

It’s probably easier to check for Off-Peak fares by searching for your required journey.

No Booking Fees or Credit Card Charges

Unlike The Trainline, My Train Tickets or Rail Easy there are no booking fees or credit and debit card charges when you buy tickets direct from them.

In fact, there are not even any fees or charges if you buy tickets for any other UK rail operator, irrespective of whether you’re using a Virgin Trains promo code.

Fares on their own network cannot be bought cheaper anywhere else, when you book direct with them online.

Virgin Trains First Class Offers

Meals are served throughout the day in First Class

Travelling with Virgin Trains First Class is a treat, with luxury all the way. There’s great value deals for both business and leisure trips.

Business travellers are catered for in excellent fashion before they board the train with excellent facilities including showers and alcoholic drinks for them one other person at London Euston.

Fares in2013 start at only £23.50 from London to Birmingham and £36.50 from London to Manchester.

Virgin Trains First Class passengers enjoy:

• Complimentary meals and drinks throughout the day
• Extra legroom, your own table, reclining seats, and overhead reading light
• FREE complimentary Wi-Fi
• First Class lounges at many stations, including London Euston, Manchester Piccadilly, Birmingham International and Birmingham New Street

Virgin Trains First Class Offers >>

Weekend First Class Upgrade

If you’re travelling First Class at weekends or Bank Holidays, why not treat yourself to a First Class Upgrade. The most you will pay for your upgrade is just £15.

You can order your upgrade when you buy your tickets online.

We’ve put together a handy guide on Green Abode for all First Class upgrades that are available on other rail networks.

Manchester to London Offers

Standard Class journeys from Manchester to London, or London to Manchester are available from just £12 one way. There are plenty of fares at this price available from the Best Fare Finder.

Glasgow to London

Standard Class trips from Glasgow to London, or London to Glasgow start at only £20 one way. Book as early as possible to get these offers via the Best Fare Finder.

Liverpool to London Offers

Passengers from Manchester, Glasgow, Liverpool and Birmingham to London travel on the Pendolino

Standard Class journeys from Liverpool to London, or London to Liverpool are available from just £12 one way.

To get these deals at amazing prices, book via the Best Fare Finder.

Birmingham to London Offers

Standard Class trips from Birmingham to London or London to Birmingham start from only £7.50 one way. Book early to get these bargain fares from the Best Fare Finder.

Eurostar – One Booking Deals

You can now book tickets to the continent on Eurostar from any UK station served on their network. Not only do they offer fantastic prices, you only need to make one booking.

Standard Return fares are from just:

• Manchester to Paris – £105
• Birmingham to Paris – £91

Travel to London Euston, and then pick up the Eurostar at London St. Pancras. It’s only a short hop down the road between these stations in London.

Unfortunately, Virgin Trains promo code 2013 offers cannot be used with this deal.

For more information and to book online visit Eurostar.

Virgin Trains Timetables 2013

To help you find the best deal, the latest 2013 Virgin Trains timetables can be accessed online.

These include routes to and from:

• London – Birmingham – Wolverhampton
• London – Manchester
• London – Stafford Manchester
• North Wales – London & The West Midlands
• London – The North West – Glasgow
• Birmingham – The North West & Scotland

What’s more, you can also download your own personalised timetable which you can print off, and keep in your pocket. For all information on 2013 Virgin Trains timetables, check out their website.

Also, they have a handy network guide to routes and stations.

Railcards

Railcards are a sure way of saving money when travelling by rail, and you can get up to 34% OFF your train tickets. Check out our Railcards guide on Green Abode, which also includes links to further online discounts on the initial purchase.

2FOR1 Attractions Offers

When you travel with them you can get discounts on attractions such as restaurants, theatres and more in London, Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham, Liverpool and other cities on their network.

Simply, visit their website to find out what 2FOR1 deals are available. These are great for saving money and some can be used with 2013 Virgin Trains promo codes.

Family Travel

Families can get discounts of up to 34% if they have a Friends and Family Railcard. If you don’t have one, you still get cheaper Child Fares fares half price (aged 5 to 15), and FREE if they’re under five.

If you’re travelling with kids between the ages of three and six, ask for a FREE VKids Bags from The Shop. For more information on reductions for families and children, check out their website.

Group Travel

For other groups of between three and eight passengers, you can get 10% OFF Adult Advanced fares. The first two in the group pay the full fare, with the rest getting the discount.

Group travel tickets are available to buy online, where you can also find other cheaper available for larger groups.

If you’re travelling with a group on another rail network, check out the guide on Green Abode to discounted group travel.

e-tickets

To make your booking more convenient and hassle-free, you can use e-tickets. After you have made your purchase online print off the e-ticket.

On the day you travel, simply bring along the e-ticket and the credit or debit card that you used to make the booking. Find out more about e-tickets on their website.

Dublin by Train and Ferries

Virgin Trains have joined up with Irish Ferries and Stena Line to offer travel deals from London Euston or Milton Keynes to Dublin from just £36. Take the train to Holyhead, and catch the ferry across to Dublin.

Combined train and ferry tickets are not currently available online but can be picked up from your local train station. Find out more on their website.

Traveller Club – First Class

If you’re a frequent First Class traveller you can become a member of the exclusive Traveller club. Traveller members enjoy:

• FREE First Class travel for you and your partner from Fridays to noon on Monday
• Children travel for only £10 (under fives go FREE)
• Priority parking at selected train stations
• Special priority seating on First Class travel through the week
• Complimentary alcoholic drinks for you and one other at the First Class lounge in London Euston

You can find out more about the exclusive benefits of the Traveller club on their website.

For Virgin Trains promo code deals in 2013 and ways to save money, ensure you bookmark this page.

* Source: Virgin Trains tops first ever Which? train survey – Which?

Virgin Trains Promo Code 2013 & 20 Offers on Cheap Train Tickets is an article on Green Abode. We show you how to save money with green travel, green energy and energy saving.

Keep your fuel bill down with these eco driving tips

If you want to be an greener driver, helping the environment and cutting fuel costs, then a big factor is definitely the type of vehicle you drive, with new eco-friendly models already making big differences.

But it’s not just about the type of motor you own – it’s how you drive your car and how you make the most of your fuel. Read on for the definitive guide to all the top eco driving tips. They’re all sure fire eco ways to save you money and fuel.

Applying these simple eco driving tips could save you between 10 and 33% on your motoring fuel bill, which could amount to £100s a year*.

Prior planning and preparation…

Avoid short journeys

Try and avoid short journeys as a cold engine will use almost double the fuel per mile than a warm engine. Catalytic converters also take about 6 miles to start kicking in properly.

Make shorter trips count more

If you’ve got to make short trips, combine local errands to make for a more efficient journey and avoid lots of fuel-sapping cold engine starts.

Plan your route carefully

Check traffic reports before you set off to avoid wasting fuel at roadworks or in congested areas. You’ll also avoid getting lost and wasting fuel trying to find your way again!

Take off your roof rack when it’s not needed

Reduce drag and increase fuel efficiency by taking off unused roof racks, bike holders and the like.

Don’t carry stuff you don’t need

Heavier cars will use more fuel so take out any heavy items from the boot that you don’t need.

Start your journey the right way

Don’t bother warming up your engine

Forget what you might have been told in the past – modern cars don’t need their engines warmed. Doing this will just waste fuel and wear out your engine.

Don’t reverse out of parking spaces

Reversing from cold uses up more fuel than pulling off in first gear, so when you’re parking try to reverse into parking bays so you’re set up for an eco getaway.

Scrape the ice before you start the engine

In the winter, scrape ice and frost off the car window before switching on the engine – idling will just waste fuel.

Tweak your driving technique

Keep a steady speed

Driving at around 45 to 50mph is the most efficient speed, fuel wise, but make sure you’re keeping to the speed limit. Driving at 70mph uses up to 15% more fuel than cruising along at 50.

Drive smoothly

If you drive smoothly and sensibly you’ll save fuel. Avoid rapid acceleration or braking – if you’re coming up to a junction, let the car’s momentum take you there instead of keeping your foot on the pedal all the way there then braking suddenly.

Avoid stopping when you can

Stopping and starting uses more fuel than keeping your motor rolling – a smoother driving technique as mentioned above will help you avoid this.

Read the road

Look ahead – if you see the lights are changing to red, take your foot off the accelerator and coast to a stop rather than unnecessarily using fuel to get there.

Don’t rev too high when changing gears

With a petrol car, keep your revs at around 2,000rpm to 2,500rpm when changing gear to maximise efficiency. If you’ve a diesel engine, then change gear before you hit 2,000rpm.

Take it easy downhill

Take your foot off and keep in gear when you’re going downhill – you’ll then be using pretty much no fuel at all. But don’t ‘coast’ with the car out of gear – it’s unsafe as you won’t have full control of the vehicle and with modern engines, won’t save you fuel either.

Change up the gears faster

Get out of first gear and into second quicker, and don’t hang around in third gear when you could be using fourth.

Go smooth on the speed bumps

Avoid the temptation to accelerate between speed bumps then brake sharply. Keep a low, constant speed to save fuel and your nerves!

Use cruise control

If your car’s got cruise control and it’s safe to use it, do so. It’ll maintain a steady and more efficient stream of fuel to the engine.

Fuel saving tips for the journey

Switch off your engine when you’re stuck in traffic

With modern cars you won’t use up more fuel by switching your engine on and off when in traffic. So turn the key to off if you’re going to be stationary in traffic for more than 2 or 3 minutes.

Cut down on the air conditioning

Air conditioning adds to fuel costs and CO2 emissions. Try winding down the windows instead if you’re not going too fast. It’s less fuel hungry at higher speeds, though, so save the air con for the motorway. You should also run the a/c for a short while about once a week to keep it working properly and efficiently.

Close windows at speed

Opening windows when you’re on the motorway or a fast stretch of road will increase drag and fuel consumption – this is when air conditioning becomes a more efficient option.

Be sparing with the electrics

Demisters, headlights, heated windscreens and all your in-car electrics don’t come without a price – they all guzzle the fuel. So remember to switch them off when not needed.

Keep your car in fuel saving condition

Keep your tyres inflated

Under-inflated tyres are a sure recipe for decreased fuel efficiency – check them at least once a month and keep them pumped up to the manufacturer’s specifications. You could end up using up to 3% extra fuel otherwise.

Get your car serviced regularly

If your car and its engine is in tip top condition it’ll be working most efficiently, and therefore cheaply.

Use the right oil

Using the correct type of engine oil will make your car more efficient and save fuel. The car’s handbook should say what type to go for.

Keep your windows clean

If your front and rear windows are nice and clean they’re less likely to get all misty. You’ll then avoid having to use fuel-sapping demisters.

By following these eco driving tips you can save money as well as ensuring your car is in good working order.
* Source – How to cut up to £1000 from your family fuel bill – AA

25 Ways to Save Money and Fuel with Eco Driving Tips is an article on Green Abode. We show you how to save money with green travel, green energy and energy saving.

If, like me, you’re a fan of train travel, where the journey is as important as reaching the destination itself, then maybe you’ve dreamt of taking one of the world’s classic rail trips.

Perhaps you’ve always wanted to take the Trans-Siberian Railway, or fancied travelling the West Highland Line from Mallaig to Oban. For me, the allure of the Orient Express has long captured my imagination.

London to Istanbul by train is a great journey. You must visit the Blue Mosque when you get there. Image © Green Abode

 
And while you can still book a berth on the posh version, travelling in style in a Pullman coach and racking up a deluxe-sized bill to boot, it’s also possible to make the journey from London to Istanbul on the cheap.

London to Istanbul the InterRail way

So last summer I took the plunge. I’d been to Istanbul many times before – it’s one of my all-time favourite cities – and this time I had an even better excuse for visiting, as my sister-in-law was getting married there at the end of August.

I admit, the six-day journey out there was a bit indulgent, but the prospect of telling the other British wedding guests that I’d arrived by train, rather than the more conventional Easyjet option, was too tempting to miss.

I said cheap, so how did I do it? I simply armed myself with an InterRail ticket – £234 for a pass giving me enough unlimited travel to easily make the trip (this drops to only £154 if you’re under 26) and booked a few hostels on the way to break the journey. I was in shared dorms, but at around £10 a night with clean sheets and hot showers I wasn’t complaining.

Itineraries and overnight stops

Being one of those souls who gets immeasurable enjoyment from the anticipation and planning of a journey I meticulously researched my route and put together a detailed itinerary. But even in peak season, if you’re more the freewheeling kind you’d have few problems making sleeper reservations at the last minute and finding cheap rooms in the big cities en route. For more InterRail advice, there’s plenty of useful hints elsewhere on Green Abode.

There’s several ways to get to Istanbul by train from London, and the first choice is if you want to go via Paris or Brussels. I took the Brussels option, catching the 0734 Eurostar from St Pancras, enjoying a leisurely lunch of moules frites by the Grand Place before hopping across the German border on the incredibly fast ICE train. Arriving in Cologne I had time to climb to the top of the city’s immense Gothic cathedral and grab a spot of supper.

ICE train at Cologne Hbf railway station. Image © Graham Spicer

The European couchette experience

Then it was my first sleeper couchette experience, catching the overnight express to Vienna. The shared sleeper carriage takes a bit of getting used to, that’s for sure. You’ll be sharing with up to five strangers, and the unfamiliarity, summer heat, and constant noise of the train will most likely conspire against a decent slumber.

If I was doing it again I’d take earplugs and an eyemask, but even so, it was incredibly exciting to going to bed in the knowledge that I’d wake in a different country.

Middle Europe and the race to the east

Given more time I’d have lingered a while in Vienna, but I’d spent a month there some time ago so decided to press on, quickly catching a morning train to Bratislava, the compact and surprisingly pretty Slovakian capital.

A brief scoot around the old town and a taste of East European beer under my belt and I raced onwards to Hungary. Whichever way you travel to Istanbul, chances are you’ll pass through Budapest, and if you’ve not been before, I’d recommend staying a night there as your first break of the journey. The view across the Danube to the castle district is truly memorable and Budapest has to rank as one of Europe’s most attractive capital cities.

Arriving in the Balkans

But it was another place I’d seen before and I was determined to carry on to Serbia and (for me) uncharted territories. My second night in a couchette didn’t offer much more rest than the last, what with early morning passport checks and the growing heat as we headed south, but all the same, I was definitely getting into my InterRailing stride.

But by the time I reached Belgrade I was ready for a break, so booked into a pleasant and sociable hostel in the old town for two nights. I could have opted to make my way to Istanbul via Romania, stopping in Bucharest then catching the Bosphorus Express from there, but I wanted to find out how the much-maligned ex-Yugoslav capital ticked.

And I wasn’t disappointed. This is a town well and truly shaking off the legacy of its troubled recent past and embracing life to the full. The bars, restaurants and street life are superb, and there’s even a city beach, formed from a dammed-off section of the River Sava. There’s history and culture too, and while I was there, they were in the midst of a huge beer festival that brought a touch of Munich Oktoberfest atmosphere to town.

Serbia is a buzzing city, don't forget to check out the beach. Image © Graham Spicer

Further into the east

Two nights wasn’t enough but I had my itinerary to stick to, so with heavy heart I said goodbye to new-found friends, picked up my bags and caught an early tram to the elegant central station to ride further south-eastwards into Bulgaria.

Now a word of warning. The train tracks in southern Serbia are in need of an urgent upgrade, and making the trip on a summer’s day is something of a challenge. The heat is oppressive, the journey painfully slow, and the carriages overcrowded. A night train, or even shelling out a few extra quid and taking the bus, would be a more comfortable option.

But the Serbian countryside is gorgeous, and if you like a bit of excitement, the cat-and-mouse game between local cigarette smugglers and the border police adds a bit of extra spice to the journey.

Bulgaria’s unsung hero

Plovdiv is a hidden gem in Bulgaria in the heart of the Balkans © Graham Spicer

Even so, it was a relief to finally arrive in Plovdiv at the end of a very long day. Most travellers opt to stop in Sofia, and while I’d heard great things about Bulgaria’s capital I’m an awkward bugger, and like to explore the places people have barely heard of.

Bulgaria’s second city turned out to be a gem. I won’t shout too loud though, because it’s just fine as it is, without hoards of backpackers or coach parties to spoil it. Fascinating Roman ruins, shady tree-lined alleyways, fine old Art Nouveau mansions, pleasant parks and gardens and a thriving café culture conspire to make one of the most relaxing cities in the Balkans.

Just do me a favour and don’t tell anybody else about it.
 
 

Arriving in Istanbul

On the map it looks like a short hop from Bulgaria to Turkey and Istanbul, the city that famously straddles two continents. But be prepared for a rather gruelling sleeper train, with a long night-time stop at the border to get your Turkish visa stamp. It’s all worth it though, and as you roll through the Thracian countryside and into Istanbul’s sprawling suburbs the excitement mounts.

Arriving at Istanbul’s Sirkeci station, after making it all the way across Europe, is a momentous feeling. You’ve seen the landscape, architecture and culture change slowly, but inexorably, along your journey. Gone are the flatlands of north-west Europe and the pointed church spires of Mitteleuropa. The onion domes and blocky communist-era apartments of the Balkans have also disappeared. You’ll need to pinch yourself that just a few short days ago you were eating German sausage then enjoying a spot of Hungarian goulash.

If you were looking, you’d have spotted the odd minaret in Serbia and Bulgaria, but trundling towards your ultimate destination, with the soaring splendour of the Blue Mosque almost within reaching distance of your train carriage, you feel you’ve finally arrived in the east.

And yet not quite the east. Stepping off the train and immersing yourself in the Turkish metropolis you’re in for your next big eye-opener. Exploring a city truly at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. But that’s another story, and besides, I had a wedding to get to.

If you fancy a trip to Istanbul yourself, why not have a look at my Istanbul highlights map – and if you’ve got any questions about InterRailing to Turkey or about Istanbul itself, just leave a comment and I’ll get back to you.

One Man’s InterRail Journey from London to Istanbul by Train is an article on Green Abode. We show you how to save money with green travel, green energy and energy saving.

It is common ground that the better insulated your loft, the more economical your heating.

So what choices do you have when it comes to additional insulation? Moreover, what eco friendly alternatives exist?  We, as consumers, are encouraged to fill our lofts to the brim with more loft insulation made from newly manufactured glass fibre. More man made material eventually ending up in landfill at varying degrees of cost, none of which is cheap to fill the whole loft.

Can recycled sails be used for home insulation?

There are alternatives such as sheep’s wool insulation, recycled irritant free fibre and the like, but here at Wightsails we are experimenting with shredded sailcloth. It is a very early stage of testing and we are now looking at mixing the sailcloth with recycled wool, and maybe a binder to make what looks more like a roll of insulation. At the moment, we have sailcloth in hessian sacks, tied in a long sausage train and spread throughout the loft.

The advantages of shredded sailcloth as insulation will undoubtedly be cost, breathability, no health risks, and it ought to be moisture repellent. When packed, sailcloth is resilient, and we are convinced it has thermal qualities.

This could cost a fraction of the eco alternatives currently available, and be even cheaper than the mainstream glass fibre loft insulation. It should also retain its character and shape, and make it a useable product, for both loft and cavity insulation.

Where loft space is irregular or difficult to access, common practice is to fill with cellulose fibre and other products. Indeed, cellulose is becoming more popular with new homes for cavity wall insulation as well. Basically, it’s recycled paper mixed with adhesives and flame resistant mixture, which can then be loose packed, or you may have seen it being sprayed on.

What process would be required to make it happen?

We believe that sailcloth could prove a practical alternative to this treatment, especially if we mix it with flame resistance material (as we would have to). This not only binds it a little, but makes the material unattractive to vermin, kills insects and fungus and dry rot.

It would be kind on the skin, cheaper than cellulose, and use less in the way of chemicals. The only additional ingredient needed is the fire retardant, and we are looking at a product called Borax which would appear to be one of the greener versions (not solely man made), that are essential for this type of product.

With rising energy prices, property owners are well aware of the benefits of insulating their homes, and if eco alternatives such as this can be found at a fraction of the cost, what better way to insulate your home.

Just how many sails are thrown into landfill in any one year is a statistic we are trying to calculate, but we have already rescued hundreds of sails from landfill, and will be expanding our sail recycling programme throughout the country.

There is not much we can’t use from a sail, and those sails that are unusable and all the off cuts are shredded and used as above.

We think it’s a great idea at Green Abode and love Wightsail’s innovation. I’m sure you’ll agree that their products look beautiful, and just the job for summer days out on the beach.

Is Sail Recycling from the Isle of Wight the New Innovation in Insulation? is an article on Green Abode. We show you how to save money with green travel, green energy and energy saving.