fares and savings explained

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Fares and discounted train tickets

Although rail fares were simplified in 2008 with three basic types, tickets are far from easy to understand.  Unless you take a special interest in chasing the cheap tickets, and are really flexible about when you can travel, you will usually end up paying more for your journey than you would like.  This fares guide helps you pick the best ticket for you and helps you seek out any savings that might be available. 

 

Take me to:

This part of the website has four sections:

1.  Railcards - these cards cost money, but over the course of a year give savings of 1/3 or more on almost all rail tickets.  Even the cheapest (advance) are now included.  They offer genuine savings and are recommended for everyone, unless you really are taking the train on one occasion and know you won't travel again during the year. 

2.  Cheap Train Tickets.  There are some savings out there but they are not as plentiful as the rail companies might have you believe!  This guide details any regular cheap tickets or special offers that are available. 

3.  Unlimited Travel Tickets.  These fares are not always cheaper that buying individual tickets, but are rarely more expensive if you plan to do a bit of travelling.  However for much the same price you can have flexibility - something sadly lacking in rail fares!  They come into their own for touring holidays allowing you to get on and off trains as you please, and knowing in advance how much it will cost.  There are also some useful tips for getting some extra value from them. 

4.  Money saving tips.  Ideas for getting more from your train fares. 

5.  Fares Guide, last but not least (!) a guide to normal rail fares in Britain.  There are basically three types of fare.  The guide explains when to use them and what you might expect from each ticket. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This site was last updated 08-Apr-2010

© Britain By Rail 2010