Just as there is a proper way to hold a teacup, there is a correct etiquette for travelling by train, according to famous etiquette coach William Hanson. 

Determined to prevent joyous journeys turning into travel nightmares, the social media personality has teamed up with Trainline and taken to the c2c network to show passengers his top train etiquette tips.

"Ignore these rules at your own social peril," he warns.

How to be the perfect passenger with William Hanson

Sharing his top three tips, Hanson urges passengers to avoid monopolising empty seats by leaving their bags on the floor.

Commuters should also avoid eating anything smelly, as Hanson says; eat something "fishy" such as sushi and incur the "wrath of your fellow passengers".

Most importantly, if you see someone less able to stand than you, then offer them your seat. "That is just good manners," he insists.

Hanson is the executive director and owner of The English Manner, an etiquette and protocol coaching company.

He is also a bestselling author, and host of podcasts Help I Sexted My Boss with best friend Jordan North and Keeping Up Appearances: The Luxury Podcast with Jonathan Vernon-Smith. 

For his full train etiquette guide, visit thetrainline.com/en-us/via/europe/uk/england/a-guide-to-train-etiquette-with-william-hanson.