First Class on London Midland is very poor, especially if a 350/1 turns up, where Standard Class is identical, if not better!
I find the LM First Class carriage to be slightly claustrophobic seeing as it is very small.
On busy services (where Standard Class is likely to be full from Nuneaton), First Class is likely to be full well before approaching London. At the very least, you will have to share a seat with someone else, which considering the seats are the same as Standard Class, means there is no difference in comfort levels. Also, if you're thinking of travelling First Class to avoid the cramped conditions on the 18:29 from London, think again. When I travelled on that service, the First Class compartment was full and standing 10 minutes before departure!
On quiet services (starting with the 10:33 off Crewe), I've noticed that Standard Class can be quieter than First Class! With the large number of Priority Seats available in Standard Class, Standard Class can actually be more comfortable! (The legroom in First Class is identical to Standard Class, except that it can be better in Standard Class if you sit in a Priority Seat).
I only ever travel in First Class on London Midland when I am booking at short notice and a First Class Advance is cheaper than a Standard Class Advance. The
only obvious benefit of First Class is the blinds, which do help on a very sunny day. I don't think it's worth paying more than £20 extra for some blinds, though
For the benefit of everyone viewing this thread, an LM Only Crewe to London First Class Off-Peak Return is £55, whereas a Standard Class Off-Peak Return is £33.
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It's not worth it. May be nice to avoid the riff raff if applicable
I find that the
real riff raff are the ones that sit in First Class with a Standard Class ticket, and on many occasions don't get caught. So you're probably better off in Standard Class!