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The prices of nearly 4 million train tickets will be slashed for a limited time as part of government plans in January.
The Department for Transport launches the Great Britain Rail Sale for the fourth year running, with ministers promising “huge discounts on more than 3 million rail cars” train ticket“.
The promotion, which will run for one week from January 6 to 12, will give passengers the opportunity to save more than 50% on advance tickets and off-peak tickets. Almost all operators will participate.
Discounted tickets are available for travel between January 13 and March 25, 2026, and are suitable for all travellers, including commuters, weekenders and mid-term holidaymakers.
The best deals include journeys from Portsmouth to Waterloo for £10, and fares from Manchester Piccadilly to Manchester Airport for £1.20.
Simon Caldertravel reporter independent” said: “Like many other regular rail users, I will be prepared to buy cheap tickets as soon as they go on sale for the journey I had planned.
“Personally, I welcome the latest rail sales as it will save me money, but at the expense of long-suffering taxpayers.
“The real test of the joint venture is whether it actually spurs significant additional travel.”
The government says it is committed to getting more people on rail after the pandemic caused a sharp drop in rail use (although figures are gradually climbing).
Rail trends for 2024-25 show that, excluding the Elizabeth Line, passenger numbers continue to grow but are still 14.5% below pre-COVID levels (2019-20).
The sale comes just months after the government announced it would put it up for sale. Freeze regulated rail fares For the first time in 30 years, the UK has “lowered the cost of living for hard-working people”.
Railway sales tickets can be booked directly with the train operator or through third-party websites such as Trainline.
Discounted tickets are not available on all routes and during certain peak times. Railcards and other discounts cannot be used in conjunction with rail sales fares.
Other major discounts to look out for include 76% off a £41.70 flight from Exeter to Waterloo, selling for £10.
Fares from Newcastle to Middlesbrough, which costs £5.20, will also be reduced by 62% to £2.
Sheffield and Nottingham flights to the London terminal will also be discounted by 50% in the sale.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “We all want to see cheaper rail travel, so whether you’re planning a mid-term break or visiting friends or family, this sale offers big discounts.
“This is part of our plan to build a railway that is owned by the public and serves the public.”
The new year will bring big changes to train travel across the country, as more train companies are set to move into public ownership under British Rail (GBR).
Britain will be the sole “guiding voice” for the railways, with the government promising nationalization will put passengers first and “rebuild trust in the railways”.