They increase in reliability and punctuality in the order given. The Railtrack website gives details on timetables and fares. The UK has a problem, particularly with train reliability and punctuality. In general public transport is expensive in the provinces, but cheap in the larger cities, and especially London. See the London Transport website for details.
Cheques are still a very popular way of paying for things.
Cheques generally take up to 5 working days to clear, but most banks will allow you to draw cash on a cheque before it is officially cleared. Statements of account can be issued every month, or less frequently if you wish. Mini statements can be printed from ATMs belonging to your own bank. Overdrafts should be arranged beforehand, but small unintentional temporary overdrafts of the order of 75 Euro will usually not incur a penalty. Many people do all their comestible shopping and pay for petrol by credit.