From the 3rd of March we can expect a 4.9% increase in the price of rail fares across the UK.

This has been capped by the Department for Transport (DfT) to try and keep the prices as fair as they can. The increase in ‘regulated’ rail fares is linked to the annual July retail prices index (RPI) measure of Inflation, which was 9% in 2023.

Millions of commuters will feel the hit of this price increase in their everyday life and with mass cancellations and delays some are calling this an insult to the public.

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) called the rise "excessive" given "widespread cancellations and delays" across the network and called for rail to be brought back into public ownership.

Privatisation of British Rail

The ownership and operation of the railways in Britain were passed from government control into private hands, this process began in 1994 and was completed in 1997.

Now, Railway companies and stations are owned by various private companies.

What are Regulated rail fares?

Any train tickets you buy which are regulated will be affected by the increase of 4.9%.

  • Season Tickets
  • Anytime Day
  • Off-peak
  • Super Off-Peak

What are unregulated Rail Fares?

If you buy these tickets they will not be affected by the upcoming price increases.

  • First-class
  • Advance
  • Anytime
  • Off-peak Day