no, as you have to pay extra for check-in luggage (extra £60-£80), only cabin luggage free. If your flying from Heathrow, then Qatar, Etihad, Emirates and Air France. If you can get Thai Airways is the best option, as flights can be changed in their office in Pattaya. If you are based in East or Central London, try London City Airport, where Swiss Air is available but remember to add check-in luggage if required (it's cheaper then paying at the airport). Also, British Airways is also direct but add check-in luggage when booking.
You can catch National Express coach from Heathrow Airport to Manchester. If you still prefer the train, then London Heathrow (Piccadilly Line) to Hammersmith change to Hammersmith & City Line or Circle Line to Euston Station. You can pre-book your coach ticket to Manchester online (lot cheaper). Hope this is helpful.
I thought so, under the circumstances but I bee inform by another member that it's only issued to bordering countries to Thailand. I'll make some more inquiries on this issue.