Getting to the start, and back from the finish
 

Possibly of interest to UK cyclists:

One of these passed me today; a double-decker coach with a big trailer on the back - the trailer is fully covered in, so the bikes are not in the weather.

European Bike Express

cheers for this. I have just booked on the bus for next saturday, returning in a few weeks. the woman I spoke to was really helpful, and got me sorted at very late notice.

my first 3 week cycle before deciding whether to take the plunge on an off-europe cycle tour.

I used these guys, and they were excellent. very friendly, and it was one of the least hassle commercial transport experiences I have had. home made lasagne on the bus too...

I met someone in Kings-X yesterday, he said he had a nightmare getting back from France by Eurostar. They couldn't fit the bike through the x-ray scanner, then refused to take it, then took it on a different train. he found it on the platform when he arrived in London, luckily it was still there.