United Kingdom - Anyone used train with tandem and specifically Southern for "cuckoo trail"

Hi everyone - if you check my introduction you'll see that I am likely to be here for tandem mainly, since that is the new thing I know I'll benefit greatly from advice.

In which respect it would be great to hear any advice about a prospective trip we may make this weekend to get to the "cuckoo track" which we read about here (http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/europe/my-twowheeled-journey-from-london-to-paris-2094565.html)
(Cuckoo Track: 14 miles of flat, well-surfaced and traffic-free cycle trail following a disused railway line in East Sussex
My partner's found out more detail, I think Polegate is possibly a target destination.

I expect regular cycle advice about the trip there from London (we're based in the South East so I think may cycle to East Croydon or similar to start) might be helpful but I have this nightmare vision that a tandem challenges the allocated spaces in rolling stock sometimes and we might get stranded :eek: or have issues :(. The last time I used the train with a bike there were luggage cars and guards!

If anyone can help at short notice it would be fabulous - we have tried emailing Southern without any reply beyond the auto response and my partner will try telephoning tomorrow, it's just that I am sure there are others who know all about this and we are new to tandem riding.

Also be good to learn if there are other UK tandem riders on the forum too I guess.

From National Rail enquiries web site:

Cycling and cyclists

Cycling by train

National Rail encourages the integrated use of cycles and trains - two convenient and environmentally friendly forms of transport. Some Train Companies have restrictions on when accompanied cycles may be carried, especially at busy times. Details can be found on our Train Companies page: select the Train Company you are travelling with and look at the 'Onboard facilities' section.
Where accompanied cycles are carried there is no charge.

Some general points


If a cycle reservation is required please make it as far in advance as possible
Cycles are not carried during periods of restriction as listed below
Please label your cycle clearly
Please cover your folded cycle
Tandems, tricycles and bicycle trailers are not carried unless otherwise stated
Unaccompanied cycles cannot be carried on any services.
Motorcycles cannot be carried on any services
Cycles must be carried in the designated area on trains and must not obstruct doors or aisles
Cycles are carried at owner’s risk (see National Rail Conditions of Carriage (http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/nrcc))


Doesn't look hopeful:(

Aha more detailed info from AtoB magazine: http://www.atob.org.uk/Bike_Rail.html

Also checked the Tandem club web site but seems they keep all the useful info for members only :( http://www.tandem-club.org.uk

Not a tandem rider myself but my parents are. Don't think they've ever even tried taking it on any sort of public transport.
Had you considered getting a couple of cardboard cut out fake wheels and trying to look like you're pushing 2 bikes very close together? :D

Missed you on the date- but I live 1/2 mile from the Cuckoo trail at Hailsham---And I ride a Tandem.

So if you have postponed the trip- or are doing it again---PM me.