From 1 April 2026, National Rail refund rules for certain ticket types are changing. Here’s what you need to know.
The changes apply to:
Anytime tickets
Off-Peak tickets
Day Travelcards
Rover tickets
Ranger tickets
⚠️ I bought my ticket before 1 April 2026 – do these new rules apply to me?
No.
If you purchased one of the affected ticket types before 1 April 2026, the previous refund rules apply — even if your travel date is after 1 April.
The new rules apply only to the affected ticket types purchased on or after 1 April 2026.
What’s changing?
From 1 April 2026, if you decide not to travel on one of the affected ticket types, you must request your refund before 23:59 on the day before your ticket becomes valid.
When do I need to request my refund?
You must submit your refund request before your ticket becomes valid for travel.
This means requesting your refund by 23:59 on the day before the ticket’s validity start date.
What happens if I request a refund on the day of travel?
Refunds requested on or after the day your ticket becomes valid are only considered in exceptional circumstances, and evidence that the ticket was not used may be required.
Can I still get a refund if my train is cancelled?
Yes.
If your train is cancelled and you choose not to travel, you are entitled to a full refund.
You can continue to request this in self-serve.
What if my train is delayed?
If you travel using one of the affected ticket types and your train is delayed, you may be entitled to Delay Repay compensation from the train operating company.
Delay Repay is separate from the refund rules for these ticket types.
Is there an administration fee for refunds?
An administration fee may apply to eligible refunds for the affected ticket types:
Up to £5 per ticket
Up to £10 per Season Ticket
If the administration fee is higher than the refund value, no refund will be payable.
I made a mistake when booking — can I still get a refund?
If you request a refund before the day your ticket becomes valid, your ticket’s terms and conditions apply.
Can I change my ticket instead?
If you want to change your ticket before the day of travel, you can do so in line with your ticket’s conditions.
On the day of travel or after, amendments are not permitted. Your ticket may still be valid on alternative services depending on its conditions.
If I buy my ticket on the day I’m travelling, will it be non-refundable?
Yes. Once your ticket is valid, it cannot be refunded unless you decide not to travel due to a cancellation or disruption to your train.
I’ve used part of my Open Return ticket. Can I get a refund for the unused portion?
No. Once the outward journey of an Open Return ticket becomes valid for travel, neither the outward nor the return portion is eligible for a refund.
For full details of the National Rail refund policy, please visit the dedicated National Rail page.