TheTrainline has been working with train companies to make fares simpler. This year train tickets are being simplified across Britain...
The changes will start on 18th May 2008, when all advance purchase tickets will be known as Advance and will have common terms and conditions, including railcard discounts.
The new names bring together commonly used Single and Return fares into three categories, making it easier for you to buy the best value ticket for your journey.
The new names describe when you can buy or use a ticket and will apply to Single and Return fares:
Buy in advance, subject to availability.
These are Single (one-way) fares offering great value for money on many longer distance journeys. You must book in advance and travel on a specific train service.
Buy any time, travel off-peak.
These are cheaper fares for travelling when it’s less busy, so they have restrictions on when you can travel. Where there is more than one Off-Peak fare for a journey, the cheaper fare with more restrictions will be named Super Off-Peak.
Buy any time, travel any time.
These are the most flexible fares as there are no time restrictions on when you can travel. Perfect for people who need complete flexibility.
Other tickets, such as Season tickets and Rover tickets, will not be affected by the changes.
Why the change?
Customer feedback suggested that it isn’t always easy to find the best value ticket to match their needs because of the range of different fares available.
The new fare names simplify the choice, allowing you to choose your rail ticket with confidence.
When will fares change?
From 18 May 2008, all advance purchase fares will be known as Advance and will have common terms and conditions, including being eligible for Railcard discounts.
From 7 September 2008, walk-up fares (that you don’t have to buy in advance) will be grouped into Anytime or Off-Peak.
Will fares increase as a result of these changes?
No, fares will not increase as a result of the new fares structure.
What are the benefits for you?
Ticket names are easier to understand
The new fare names describe when you can buy or use your ticket, making it easier for you to decide what ticket suits your journey. For example if you buy an Anytime fare, you can use it to travel any time during the day.
Fewer ticket names
We all want to get the best value fare for our rail journey, so with fewer names you can quickly work out what ticket you need to make your journey.
Common terms & conditions
Advance ticket terms and conditions are now the same across all train companies nationwide, so you know exactly where you stand.
New Railcard discounts
Railcard discounts have been extended to all Advance fares. Railcard holders save 1/3 on fares for all Standard Class tickets and some Railcard holders can also save 1/3 on First Class fares on selected journeys.
