> It's not as if you can set up competing parallel networks running trains side by side No, but there are usually National Express or other coach services avai

> It's not as if you can set up competing parallel networks running trains side by side No, but there are usually National Express or other coach services available on many routes. For longer routes like London - Manchester you can also fly. You can also drive yourself - peak time fares are so high that if there is more than one of you travelling it's often cheaper to do this even if you have to rent the car. You can also pay a taxi firm to drive you, which again will often be cheaper than peak fares for more than one person.