When is the best time to book a UK train ticket?

Question

I need to travel from London (any station) to Stockport (actually bramhall but think Stockport could be the nearest station direct from london) and I need to find the cheapest fare,

I know about avoiding the trainline website which adds £2 booking charge and to go direct to the train company itself, and about getting 2 single tickets as it costs less than a return, though I will be travelling in one day

I dont mind as many changes as it takes to get it to the cheapest level- as long as it wont take more than 7 hours per journey.

Is it cheaper to go to another town and get a coach/bus/smaller train? Is it cheaper to go on a certain day/time/...etc

how far in advance should I book the ticket? and does anyone know the best route?

I will be transporting something largei-sh and heavy (though carriable) and hence I have found a coach to cost more, (£33 return)

The best price I have found is £13.50 single (so £27 return), no days in advance, anyone know of anything cheaper?

Answer 1

try www.megatrain.com, its the cheapest train fares there is. i don't think it'll get u straight to stockport, it'll be the largest nearest city.

Answer 2

have you tried www.railtrack.co.uk

Answer 3

obviously before you intend to travel

Answer 4

about a local travel agency maybe they might have  a discount or try another method