What is the cheapest day to travel by train in the UK?

What is the cheapest day to travel by train in the UK? This means that travelling on a weekend can be more expensive. In particular, you might find it cheaper to travel before 09:30 on Saturdays, and after 17:00 on Sundays. However, if you're travelling on Greater Anglia or Thameslink for example, the cheapest day to travel by train is a Saturday, Sunday or Bank Holiday.

Why are train journeys so expensive in UK?

While airlines pay no kerosene tax or VAT across Europe, train operators pay energy taxes, VAT and high rail tolls in most European countries. In the U.K., operators are relieved of VAT, but are notorious for imposing some of the highest ticket prices in Europe.

What is a standard advance train ticket?

Advance tickets are single (one-way) tickets for a specific train, only available to be bought in advance. If you don't mind being flexible about your travel times, Advance tickets can save you a lot.

When should you buy train tickets?

The earlier you book your tickets, the more likely you are to get the lowest fare available for the dates you want on the routes along your journey. You may book your travel up to 11 months in advance.

What is the most expensive train fare in the UK?

You may have seen news stories doing the rounds about how the new Luton Dart has become the priciest route in Britain. The £300 million line, which opened this week, charges £4.90 – or £3.77 per mile.

How to get cheapest train tickets to London?

Do train tickets in UK sell out?

First of all, don't worry. Very few trains in Great Britain can 'sell out'.

What time do trains to London get cheaper?

Try to avoid travelling between 0630 -0930 and 1530 – 1830 when Off Peak tickets are available as these are much cheaper than flexible Anytime tickets. Use our Best Fare Finder widget to see what difference this makes to the cost of your journey.

Is it cheaper to buy a train ticket or use an Oyster card?

You can add money to an Oyster card or use contactless (card or device) straight away. You only pay for the journeys you make and it's cheaper than buying a paper single or return ticket (train companies may offer special deals on some journeys).

Is there a senior discount for train travel in the UK?

British Rail Senior Passes Seniors, 60 years or older, visiting the UK can save with BritRail's Senior Discount, receiving approximately 15% off the First Class adult fare on a: BritRail FlexiPass. BritRail Consecutive Pass.

Do you have to buy a train ticket before boarding UK?

All rail passengers are required to purchase a train ticket before boarding any UK train if you have boarded at a station with ticket facilities. Failure to do so may result in a Penalty Fare of at least £100.

Does booking in advance make trains to London cheaper?

This is well worth it if you're under 26, over 60, travel as a family, travel as a couple, or have a registered disability. Railcards give 34% off Anytime, Off-Peak and Advance fares, see the section below. Book longer-distance trips in advance. Advance fares are the cheapest ticket for medium & long-distance journeys.

Is it cheaper to buy train tickets in advance at the station?

Is it okay if we book 30 days ahead ? In general it is cheaper to book long distance trains ahead of time - 10 to 12 weeks is when cheap (but inflexible) tickets are released for sale. At 30 days on most routes there would be a reasonable selection still on sale if you are not too choosy about times.

Is it better to purchase your ticket at the station or on the train?

Higher fares usually apply when purchasing tickets onboard the train. To secure the best available fare, passengers should purchase tickets prior to boarding the train.

Is it best to reserve a seat on a train?

Some trains require them. A reservation is good for a specific seat in a specific car, on a specific train on a specific date between 2 cities. Seat reservations aren't always necessary, if you don't like to plan ahead, but be prepared not to have a seat on a crowded train.