⚠️ From 1 April, refund rules are changing for certain National Rail tickets. Click here for more information.
Each ticket type has different levels of price and flexibility.
Select the one that suits your travel plans best.
Advance tickets
Why choose an Advance ticket?
Usually the cheapest option — available up to 12 weeks before travel (sometimes up to 18:00 the day before).
Most include a seat reservation.
Railcard discounts apply.
Great if you like to plan ahead and travel on a set date and time.
Good to know:
Advance tickets are Singles only, but you can combine two for a return journey.
They’re non-refundable.
They’re for a specific train and route — you can’t change operators or break your journey.
Before departure, you can change the date or time of your ticket for a fee per ticket, plus any difference in fare. Click here for more details on fees.
Advance fares sell out quickly, so book early!
Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets
Why choose Off-Peak tickets?
Cheaper than Anytime tickets if you travel outside rush hours.
Travel is usually quieter.
Can be bought as an Open Return — return within one month.
Refundable, with fees (click here for more info about refund fees).
Railcard discounts apply.
Good to know:
Only valid on Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak trains. Travelling at peak times could lead to a fine.
Check Off-Peak times here.
If you know your exact time, an Advance ticket may be cheaper.
Anytime tickets
Why choose an Anytime ticket?
The most flexible option — travel when you like.
Anytime Single: travel any time on the date shown (until 04:29 the next morning).
Anytime Return: travel on the date shown or within five days, return within one month.
Refundable, with fees (click here for more info about refund fees).
Railcard discounts apply.
Good to know:
Because they’re fully flexible, they’re more expensive than Off-Peak or Advance tickets.
Check if your route is Off-Peak — you could save money.