Travelling as a family can get expensive quickly, but the Family & Friends Railcard discount offers great savings for groups making family travel more affordable. The Family & Friends Railcard slashes 1/3 off adult fares and 60% off fares for children aged 5–15, totalling great savings. At just £35 a year or £80 for three years, it’s an excellent way to make travel more affordable, whether it’s a quick day trip or a school holiday adventure.
A Family & Friends Railcard offers great flexibility for travel across the National Rail network and it can be used across a range of ticket types, including with Advance bookings. However, there are some limitations. Discounts cannot be applied to trips between two stations within the London and Southeast area during morning peak hours.
Benefits of a Family & Friends Railcard
- Big savings for groups: Save on rail travel for up to four adults and four children on each journey. When you’re travelling with the family, or enjoying a big day out, that can total great savings!
- No limitations on destinations: Enjoy discounts on a wide range of ticket types, including Advance fares. Travel more for less with discounts on family train travel.
- Environmentally friendly option: Railcards are versatile to suit your family style. Skip the plastic card by opting for a digital version stored on your phone.
- Exclusive offers: Unlock additional discounts on days out, dining, and attractions. With savings on attractions as well as travel, you can afford to do more together.
How to Get a Family & Friends Railcard
There are two super simple ways you can purchase a Family & Friends Railcard.
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Buy a Railcard at any staffed train station ticket office. Your family doesn’t need to be present for this.
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Receive a physical Railcard by post or instantly add a digital version to the app using a download code sent to your email.
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Apply for a Family & Friends Railcard online via the website (linked below) or the Railcard App.
What will you need?
- Your address and email address.
- The name of the second cardholder.
- A debit or credit card.
How to Use a Family & Friends Railcard
- When booking tickets online or in the CrossCountry app, select “Family & Friends Railcard” and you’ll instantly see how much you can save.
- For purchases at stations, ask the attendant to apply your Railcard discount or select the option on self-service machines.
- Always have your Railcard with you during your trip. If it's digital, ensure your phone is charged to avoid the risk of a fine.
