For many UK travellers, the potential for significant savings on train tickets is hiding in plain sight. A variety of railcards, offered by National Rail, can slash the cost of journeys by a third or even half, but with numerous options available, it's crucial to find the right one for your circumstances.
Who is Eligible for a Railcard?
Contrary to popular belief, most people will qualify for at least one type of discount card. Eligibility is primarily based on factors like your age, who you travel with, or whether you have a disability. The cards are available for either a one-year or three-year duration, offering long-term savings on eligible train tickets across the national network.
A Detailed Breakdown of Available Railcards
The range of cards is extensive, each with specific rules, costs, and benefits. Here is a comprehensive guide to the main options.
16-17 Saver Railcard: Costing £35 for one year, this card provides a substantial 50% off fares. It's available to all 16 and 17-year-olds and is valid until the holder's 18th birthday. It cannot be used with ScotRail, Eurostar, or Caledonian Sleeper services.
16-25 Railcard: Priced at £35 for one year or £80 for three years, it offers a third off adult fares. It is for those under 26 or full-time students of any age. A minimum £12 fare applies for travel between 4.30am and 10am, Monday to Friday.
26-30 Railcard: This £35 one-year card also provides a third off. It can be bought anytime before your 31st birthday and used until its expiry. The same weekday morning minimum fare of £12 applies.
Disabled Person's Railcard: At £20 for one year or £54 for three years, this card grants a third off for the holder and an adult companion. Eligibility is based on receiving certain disability benefits or having a qualifying disability.
Family & Friends Railcard: For £35 (one year) or £80 (three years), adults get a third off and children get 60% off. Up to four adults and four children can travel on one card, but at least one child must be in the party. Peak-time restrictions apply in London and the South East.
Network Railcard: This £35 annual card covers London and the South East, offering a third off for adults and 60% off for children. It allows discounts for up to three other adults and four children. There is a £13 minimum adult fare on weekdays.
Senior Railcard: For those aged 60 and over, it costs £35 for one year or £80 for three years, providing a third off. Some local councils may offer it cheaper. It is not valid on weekday morning peak services between London and the South East.
Two Together Railcard: This £30 one-year card gives a third off for two named people aged 16+ who must always travel together. It is not valid between 4.30am and 9.30am on weekdays.
Veterans Railcard: Costing £35 for one year or £80 for three years, it offers a third off for the veteran and 60% off for up to four children. It is available to anyone who served one day or more in HM Armed Forces.
HM Forces Railcard: Priced at £21 for one year, it provides a third off for adults and 60% off for children. It is issued directly to eligible service personnel by the Ministry of Defence.
How to Apply for Your Discount Card
Applications can be made online via the National Rail website for either a digital or physical card. They are also available for purchase in person at staffed station ticket offices. For some railcards, you will need to provide proof of identity, such as a passport, driving licence, or EEA National Identity Card.
With careful selection based on your travel habits and personal eligibility, investing in a railcard can lead to hundreds of pounds in savings each year, making train travel across the UK more accessible and affordable for millions.
