Discover Savings with Railcards
Save 1/3 of the cost on most rail fares.
Railcards are a great way to save money when travelling by train. They offer rail travellers a discount of a third of the price on most train tickets, with some exceptions. Railcards usually cost £30 a year, but can save you hundreds of pounds. They are a great way to save money when purchasing train tickets.
Savings and Benefits of a Railcard
- Railcards give discounts of 1/3 of the price on most adult Standard and First Class rail fares.
- The Family & Friends Railcard also saves 60% on child fares.
- As a bonus, Railcard holders can save money on accommodation, restaurants, days out, and much more!
How to Buy a Railcard
Buying a Railcard is easy following these simple steps:
- Once you have found out which Railcard you are eligible for, visit the Railcard website to find the relevant Railcard page.
- Create an account with your Railcard provider.
- Enter your details, including your age and a photograph.
- Follow the steps to prove your eligibility.
- Review your details and make the payment.
- Download the Railcard app to use your Digital Railcard, or wait for a physical copy in the post.
How much is a Railcard?
All new Railcards usually cost £30 for a whole year – the Disabled Persons Railcard is cheaper at just £20 for the year. You can purchase some Railcards for three years at £70, giving you even bigger savings. Once you have your Railcard, you can benefit 1/3 off most fares, making it a great way to save on travel all-year round.
Which tickets can you use a Railcard for?
The type of ticket you can use your Railcard for depends on the Railcard you have, as some are only valid during Peak times. However, generally you can save money on Advance, Off-Peak, Standard, and First-Class tickets.
This means you can make great savings on your journey, wherever you’re travelling. Check out our route finder below to see how much money you can save with a Railcard.
What are the different types of Railcard?
There are nine types of Railcard available in the UK:
16-17 Saver
Children aged 16-17 can get 50% discount on most tickets with a 16-17 Railcard, making it perfect for school and college students.
16-25 Railcard
Anyone aged 16-25 is valid for a 16-25 Railcard, giving them 1/3 off most train fares across the UK. It's ideal for teenagers, graduates, students, or young professionals. A 3-year option is available to save even more.
26-30 Railcard
The 26-30 Railcard is great for graduates and young professionals looking to save 1/3 off their train tickets across the UK.
Family & Friends Railcard
The Family & Friends Railcard is valid for up to four adults and four children (aged 5-15). Adults get 1/3 off while children get a 60% discount. This can only be used if at least one adult and one child travel together.
Two Together Railcard
Perfect for friends, couples, and colleagues, the Two Together Railcard gives 1/3 off train travel for you and a friend, providing you travel together.
Senior Railcard
The Senior Railcard can be purchased and used by people over the age of 60, making it great for seniors and retirees.
Disabled Persons Railcard
The Disabled Persons Railcard is ideal for people with a disability that makes train travel difficult. If you're travelling with another adult, they'll also receive 1/3 off their fare.
Veterans Railcard
UK Veterans and Merchant Mariners can benefit from 1/3 off the train fare with a Veterans Railcard. A named adult can also get 1/3 off, while children receive a discount of 60%.
Network Railcard
For travellers in the South-East of England, this Railcard is perfect for commuters and Londoners. A Network Railcard is valid for up to four adults and four children aged 5-15, with children getting 60% off their fare.
How to Use Your Railcard
Whether you own a digital or physical railcard, the process for applying the discount to your fare is the same.
When purchasing train tickets, let your attendant know that you have a Railcard or click 'Railcard' to select your Railcard type and apply your discount. When you are travelling, make sure to have your Railcard with you to show to ticket inspectors and rail staff.
If you are using a Digital Railcard, ensure that your phone is adequately charged before travelling so you can show your Railcard when asked.
Where to Travel with Your Railcard
The UK is bursting with things to do and places to see, and with a Railcard you can do it even more cheaply. Take a look at some of our travel inspiration blog posts and discover a new place to visit.
