Official coaches

[BlackCountryVilla]

I have never used the official coaches. I prefer to make my own way by train or a local "unofficial" coach.
I have a couple of general queries.
Do they stop on the way or are they direct from Villa to the destination?
How long before the kick off do they tend to get to the ground?
I assume there is no alcohol allowed on board?
I am only asking because of the difficulties getting to and from Brighton for a night game. If anyone has any other options on travel from the Black Country I'm all ears!
Cheers,
BCV.

[PeterWithesShin]

I've only them once in donkey's, a 0-0 at Hull.

We had no stops on the way there or back, arrived an hour and a half or so before kick off.

No alcohol and they check bags, you can take pop, sarnies etc.

[vilan461]

Have used them several times over the past few seasons--
 
  usually can leave car on North Stand Car Park----though have also left it on Visitors Coach Park--and the Visitors Car Park around the corner just past Aston Station---all are allegedly patrolled-
  No alcohol on board bags are searched----sandwiches and soft drinks,tea coffee flasks allowed,
 they generally are non stop---a toilet being on all the coaches ive been on,
 they usually leave allowing ample time to get to the ground---i think the intention is to arrive 2 --1 1/2 hours before kick off--  and usually drop-off in central Birmingham before finally arriving back at Villa Park---by Visitors entrance along Witton Lane.

[BlackCountryVilla]

Thanks for the replies.
Can you leave your car somewhere secure?
Cheers,
BCV

[Scratchins]

Cars can be left on the car park at the North Stand.
Stops en route are dependent upon ETA at ground. No stops usually on the way back.
If it's a late night you can sleep all the way back - a big plus. 
I like it that traffic, parking etc. is the drivers worry - not mine.

[wittonwarrior]

Actually quiet acceptable some good fans on them. Coach one a lot of regulars and pat the steward usually is on coach 2. The few times I’ve been on them all good

[Three Spires Villa]

When my son was younger, used them a few times and Leeds away last season. No drink but they get you there pretty earlier. It all depends what you want from your away day. Overall they are pretty good