Rail fares going up faster than inflation

Rail passengers have faced inflation-busting fare increases over the last year, new figures have revealed.

In March 2025, the government capped regulated fare rises in England and Wales at 4.6%.

Meanwhile, Scotrail kept its increases to 3.8% in April.

But according to the Office of Rail and Road, many ticket prices have still outpaced those limits.

Fares across the country rose by 5.1% during the financial year ending in March 2025.

That compares with an inflation rate of 3.2% in the same period.

Why are fares still rising faster than inflation?

The government chose to set this year’s regulated fare increases at 1% above the RPI inflation rate. 

That meant key tickets like season passes and standard peak fares in England and Wales went up by 4.6%.

However, these regulated fares only cover about half of all rail journeys.

The other half - unregulated fares, such as advance and off-peak tickets - aren’t subject to the same cap. 

As a result, many have risen by even more over the last year.

For example, long-distance advance tickets have gone up by 5.9%, and advance fares in the south-east have increased by nearly 10%.

Rail travel becoming unaffordable, says campaigners

The Campaign for Better Transport believes rising fares are putting people off travelling by train and making rail travel “unaffordable”.

As a result, it has urged the government to make fares and ticketing reforms a priority.

Chief executive Ben Plowden said this would “help tackle inflation-busting fare rises and make rail travel more affordable for more people”.

Government pledges action 

Heidi Alexander, the transport secretary, has acknowledged that passengers are “frustrated” with fare hikes, especially as they’re facing “unacceptable levels of delays and cancellations”.

This, she said, is why the government made sure this was the lowest increase in three years, and below the growth in average earnings.

“We inherited a railway that was not fit for purpose,” Ms Alexander continued.

“I know it will take time for trust to be restored. 

“My number one priority is getting the railways back to a place where people can rely on them.

“And through public ownership and the creation of Great British Railways we’ll be putting passengers at the heart of everything we do.”

How can I save money on train tickets?

If you’re put off travelling by train because of the cost, then there are a few ways to find better deals.

Season ticket

If you travel regularly, you could save money by getting an annual season ticket.

Use National Rail’s season ticket calculator to find out more.

Split your journey

Two single tickets can sometimes be cheaper than a return ticket.

Check sites like TrainSplit or Split Your Ticket to cut the cost of your journey.

Get a railcard

A railcard gives you a third off ticket prices for about £30 a year.

There are options for families, retirees and students.

Book early

Try to book at least 12 weeks before travelling for the best deals.

Set alerts on Trainline for when advance tickets come up.

For no booking fees, check National Rail’s list for advance booking dates.