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When is the Rail Sale 2025 and how much could you save?
A limited-time sale will see millions of tickets slashed in this annual promotion formerly known as the Great British Rail Sale
The Rail Sale has returned for 2025, meaning you can save as much as 58% on train fares.
For one week between 14 and 20 January, tickets for travel between 17 January and 31 March will be discounted on select routes.
Just don’t leave it too late to snap one up; although more than two million fares are discounted under the government scheme, cheap tickets on individual routes are limited. Most UK train providers are participating, but there are some exceptions, including Translink in Northern Ireland.
Example fares provided by the Department for Transport (DfT) include a £26.15 ticket from London to Edinburgh reduced from £62.50, a £23.60 fare from London to Newcastle down from £52.10, and a £9.20 Nottingham to Manchester ticket, reduced from £18.50. See the table further down this article for more examples.
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How do I get cheap train tickets in the Rail Sale?
Between 14 - 20 January, browse for the cheapest discounted tickets on National Rail's Rail Sale webpage if you just want to find a great deal and are flexible on dates and destination. Alternatively, search for the journey you want via the train provider’s app or website – if it’s discounted, it will be indicated although some providers do make it difficult to find the sales deals. If you can’t be flexible over the route itself, try searching for different times of day to travel, in case the fare is discounted earlier or later.
Be aware that tickets must be bought at least 3-7 days prior to travel and that only selected advance and off-peak fares have been added to the sale, so you won’t find cheap tickets on every route. Remember, you have to travel on a set train with an advance fare, while off-peak fares provide a little more flexibility, permitting you to travel on any off-peak train. Ensure you note the permitted travel times before committing.
Need inspiration for where to travel by train? Discover where Which? members think are the best cities for a UK break.
How to get an extra 10% off Rail Sale tickets
If you're signed up to Trainline's mailing list, check for an email sent on 15 January - you should have a discount code.
This unique code cannot be reused, but it will enable you to get an extra 10% off on top of Rail Sale prices.
Trainline's site helpfully shows you which tickets have been discounted when you search (plus the before price) - but remember it charges a small commission fee. Compare prices directly with National Rail in case it's cheaper to book there, which is likely the case if you weren't sent a discount code.
Book tickets now on National Rail
How long is the Rail Sale on for?
The Rail Sale is running for just one week, between 14 and 20 January. However, you’re better off buying a ticket sooner rather than later. A limited number of tickets are available, and prices will return to normal once the discounted tickets sell out.
Which train companies are participating in the Rail Sale 2025?
Most UK train operators, including ScotRail and Transport for Wales, are participating in the sale. Exceptions are Hull Trains, Lumo, Merseyrail and Translink Northern Ireland.
Where can I book Rail Sale tickets?
Head to the National Rail website to search for reduced fares, or book tickets on provider websites or apps directly. Alternatively, discounts will show up on third-party sites such as Trainline, but remember that it adds a booking fee, which you won’t pay when booking via National Rail or direct with train companies.
Hoping to travel further afield? Read our tips on how to save on European train travel
How much could you save in the Rail Sale?
The example fare discounts DfT provided show that you might find up to 58% off select advance and off-peak tickets.
| Journey (singles) | Sale price | Full price |
|---|---|---|
| St Pancras - Whitstable | £7.20 | £11.30 |
| Ashford - Ramsgate | £2.60 | £5.20 |
| Leeds - Manchester Airport | £5.90 | £11.90 |
| Newcastle - Carlisle | £6 | £12 |
| Liverpool - London Euston | £7 | £14 |
| Nottingham - Manchester | £9.20 | £18.50 |
| Leeds - Sheffield | £3.60 | £7.20 |
Is the Rail Sale different from the Great British Rail Sale?
No, the name has just been changed from Great British Rail Sale to Rail Sale in 2025.
Are rail fares increasing in 2025?
Yes. Train fares in England are set to rise on March 2, by as much as 4.6%. So if you plan to buy a train ticket, it’s best to buy one before this date.
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