Rail fares in England to be frozen next year

Rail fares in England are to be frozen for the first time in 30 years.

The price of season tickets, peak returns for commuters and off-peak returns between major cities will remain unchanged in 2026.

Transport costs currently make up 14% of household spending.

As a result, the government believes the move will provide “real savings” to hard-pressed households, as well as help to keep inflation down.

How much could train passengers save?

Earlier this year, regulated fare rises in England and Wales went up by 4.6%.

So the government estimates that freezing fares next year could help some people save hundreds of pounds.

For example, a commuter using flexi-season tickets to get to work three days a week could save:

• £315 per year, travelling from Milton Keynes to London
• £173 per year, travelling from Woking to London
• £57 per year, travelling from Bradford to Leeds

“Commuters on more expensive routes will save more than £300 per year, meaning they keep more of their hard-earned cash,” said transport secretary Heidi Alexander.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves added that freezing rail fares will “ease the pressure on household finances and make travelling to work, school or to visit friends and family that bit easier”.

Government urged to go further

The Liberal Democrats has welcomed the move, but said more needs to be done to lower prices for passengers.

“It is too little, too late for millions of commuters who have faced years of eye-watering price hikes that have hammered them during a cost-of-living crisis,” said transport spokesperson Olly Glover.

"We need a real long-term plan to deliver a reliable, affordable railway, not just a temporary political fix days before a tough budget."

How can I save money on train tickets?

If you travel by train and want to cut costs, or you’re put off using them because they’re too expensive, there are 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.