UK Government’s annual rail sale starts today with 50% discounts

The government’s annual rail sale began today with discounts on two million tickets.

From the 14-20 January, selected advance and off-peak fares will be up to 50% off for travel between the 17th January and 31st March. 

Thousands of popular routes across nearly all UK train operators will be getting discounted journeys. 

Passengers from London could pay much cheaper rates of £26.15 to travel to Edinburgh. 

However, these deals won’t last long so it’s encouraged for passengers to take advantage of sales while they can. 

It’s part of the government’s commitment to put passengers at the heart of rail services, and raise living standards. 

Secretary of State for Transport 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.”

This money saving scheme comes on the 200th anniversary of the first steam-powered passenger train.

The anniversary will be celebrated throughout the year, and help to recognise how rail forms infrastructure and boosts local economies. 

Chief executive of Rail Delivery Group, Jacqueline Starr, 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 bringing 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 sale can be accessed through Trainline, National Rail and other operators.