Train operators are set to reduce the discount offered to Railcard holders beginning this month, according to recent announcements. Currently, Railcard users—including those aged 16-30 and individuals over 60—enjoy a 34% discount on train fares. However, this discount will be decreased to 33.4% starting from mid-September as part of efforts to increase revenue from ticket sales.
The adjustment, effective from September 15, will result in modest fare increases for individual passengers. A pro-rail advocacy group has criticized the move as a “step in the wrong direction.”
For example, an off-peak return ticket from London to Manchester, which is priced at £109 without a Railcard, will cost £72.55 on September 15. In comparison, the same ticket on September 14 is priced at £71.90.
The reduction in the discount will also impact other Railcard categories, including those for families with children, people with disabilities, and military veterans. Additionally, anytime return fares for Railcard holders will increase slightly, with examples including the Cardiff to London route rising from £194.15 to £195.90, and Birmingham to Manchester increasing from £72.60 to £73.25.
The National Rail Enquiries website’s section on Railcard discounts was updated in June to reflect the new 33.4% discount rate.
Bruce Williamson from the Railfuture lobby group commented, “Although the fare increase is minimal for some passengers, it represents a step in the wrong direction. Even minor increases can alienate passengers.”
Michael Solomon Williams of the Campaign for Better Transport called for the introduction of a northern network Railcard to address regional disparities. He suggested that a Railcard offering similar discounts to those available in the south would create a fairer system for passengers in northern England.
A spokesperson for Railcard, which manages the discount cards on behalf of train operators, defended the change, stating: “The cost of a Railcard has remained unchanged for over a decade and continues to offer a third off rail fares for just £30 per year—an investment that can be recouped in one or two journeys.”
The rail industry, aiming to recover from decreased fare revenues due to the coronavirus pandemic, has reported a decline in passenger revenue. According to Office of Rail and Road figures, revenue was £10.3 billion for the year ending March 2023, compared to £12.7 billion in the 2019-20 financial year.
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