You can download the form from the national rail website and then go to a ticket window in a London train station to buy the actual card. You can pick up your pre-purchesed train tickets at the same time. You don't need to have the senior railcard in hand before booking your tickets -- just make sure you get the railcards before collecting

http://www.senior-railcard.co.uk/eli.../where-to-buy/

Click the link in this paragraph on that website >>At a staffed station ticket office
You can buy your Railcard at a staffed station ticket office and some National Rail-licensed Travel Agent. You can do this on the day you are travelling. To save time, it’s a good idea to fill in the <u><blue>application form</u></blue> before you get there.<<

Janis, I located both of the links you suggested & found the schedules. What I don't get is where the senior card discounts the price of the ticket?? I priced it out checking the box for senior card & unchecking it, both the same. So, not wanting to look stupid, what am I doing wrong?

Ok, I think I figured it out. As I went further into the booking process I could see the senior discount on the tickets.

I got through the entire booking process. I tried to use my Visa, but it wouldn't take it. I called Visa & they couldn't figure out why it wouldn't go through. Can you use American credit cards for booking? I know my card works in Europe. Frustrating!

Yes, your cc should work. That is frustrating.

I've booked tix w/ US-issued cards.

But sometimes yes, the cc fraud department will stop it and it sometimes the left hand doesn't seem to know what the right hand is doing. Try again -- or maybe try a different card.

Good luck

After 2 attempts I sat & banged my head on my desk. Then I walked away for an hr. or so. Went back, tried again & 3rd time was a charm. Go figure! I was able to get the senior discount & used the savings to book 1st class. My DH now thinks I am hot stuff for figuring it all out!

Still have not booked room at the Fraser. In the meantime I was looking at B & B Edinburgh. It is a little further than Fraser, a little cheaper, but includes breakfast. So, am considering that. Any comments anyone?

>>My DH now thinks I am hot stuff for figuring it all out!<< he probably thinks you're hot stuff anyway -- this just enhances the image

>>Any comments anyone?<<

Mostly depends on <i>which</i> B&B and <i>where</i> it is . . .

Mind you -- Fraser suites is in a peerless location. I usually stay in B&Bs (Castle View is my favorite) but my last two visits I stayed in a Travelodge (Yes, travelodge ) and at Fraser Suites.

Oh - there was nothing wrong w/ the TL -- very clean and VERY cheap, just no charm of any sort . . .

Janis - I assume the OP meant this specific place in the West End:-

http://www.bb-edinburgh.com/index.php

I'd not heard of it, but it seems to have lots of good reviews.

Oh -- I read B&B IN Edinburgh . . . when the 'IN' was clearly not there

For a short visit -- Fraser Suites would be better located. Literally a 1 minute walk to St Giles Cathedral

I just booked the Fraser Suires. Right before I booked Hotels.com sent an email for 10% off bookings today & tomorrow (10/1 & 10/2) I jumped right on & got the extra 10% off. Woohoo!

So, now need to decide what we need to see & do. We will have 1/2 day, full day then 1/2. We won't be using a car to get around; either walking or public transportation. I am open to itinerary suggestions.

Thanks!