Huge rail sale to commence next week

Between 14th to 20th January 2025, millions of rail tickets will be available at half price as part of the government’s annual rail sale. Selected advance and off-peak fares will go on sale up to 50 per cent off travel between 17th January and 31st March 2025.

Thousands of popular routes across almost all UK train operators will be offering discounted tickets for journeys across the UK.

Passengers could travel from Liverpool to London for as cheap as £7, and a journey from Preston to Edinburgh could be as cheap as £8.40. Passengers could visit Manchester from Nottingham for less than £10.

This comes after the success of last year’s sale where rail passengers saved an approximate total of £5.8 million, and so this year the government have challenged the rail industry to offer the people of the UK an even bigger sale with even cheaper prices. In 2024’s sale, 600,000 tickets were sold, resulting in an extra 440,000 journeys taken by train.

This sale delivers on the government’s commitment to put its people at the centre of rail services by raising living standards as part of the Plan for Change. Getting more people travelling not eh rails is a key part of the government’s strategy to build strong foundations through fuelling economic growth.

Secretary of state, Heidi Alexander, said: “I’m launching the biggest ever rail sale so more passengers can get big discounts on train tickets to visit destinations across the country.”

“Whether you’re planning a getaway or wanting to visit friends or family, this sale offers huge reductions on all sorts of journeys.

“Make the most of this sale, get your tickets while you can!”

Jacqueline Starr, chief executive of Rail Delivery Group, said: “This year, as we celebrate 200 years of railways in the UK, we’re reminded that rail travel is about much more than simply getting from A to B — it’s about brining people, communities and opportunities together.

“Over two centuries, rail has become a vital part of the UK, shaping the economy and lives of millions.

“The year’s rail sale will offer over two million discounted advance fares starting on 14th January 2025, which is a great way to save on your travel and celebrate 200 years of railway connections.”