UK Railcards explained: Types, discounts & who qualifies?

Railcard discounts – and therefore Railcard savings – don’t always apply equally to every journey. Whether or not they will apply to a specific journey will depend on factors like:

• Railcard type

• Time of travel

• Ticket class

• Ticket type (Anytime, Off-Peak, etc.)

• Minimum fares and area restrictions

Railcards usually cost £35 for 1 year, meaning you need to get enough use out of one to start making savings – but this break-even point is easily reached, especially for families travelling together on a day out or students travelling between home and uni multiple times a year.

16-25 Railcard

26-30 Railcard

Senior Railcard

Family & Friends Railcard

Two Together Railcard

Network Railcard

Frequent commuters will see significant savings continue to add up over time, while long journeys will save higher amounts at once, meaning you’ll start saving with your Railcard even sooner. Groups and families, then, will have discounts apply to several people at once using just one Railcard, so one trip is often enough to break even and begin saving with your Railcard. You can learn more about how much you can save with a Railcard in our comprehensive guide.

Students and young professionals

Choose the Railcard you qualify for based on age:

• 16–17 Saver: 50% off almost all fares with no restrictions – best value.
• 16–25 Railcard: Perfect for students, mature students 26 and over and young graduates. (Tip: choose the 3-year option for £80 for even more savings!)
• 26–30 Railcard: Best option for working professionals who commute to work or take longer weekend train journeys every now and then.

Families 

• A Family & Friends Railcard is the obvious choice for families – eligible for up to 4 adults and 4 kids; you must travel with at least 1 kid.
• A Network Railcard is also a good option if you live in the designated London-South East network map area. You can also benefit from its discounts without a child present.

Couples

Older travellers

Regional travellers

If you prefer to use a physical Railcard, these can be purchased directly from the official National Rail Railcard website or at a staffed station ticket office.

What is the cheapest Railcard?

The cheapest Railcard widely available is the 3-year format of any Railcard that offers this; these are the 16–25, the Senior and the Family & Friends Railcards. A 3-year card at £80 compared to £35 a year works out to a £25 saving upfront. Some more specific Railcards for minority groups, like the Disabled Persons Railcard, are also cheaper than the £35 standard price.

Can anyone get a Railcard?

Yes, anyone can purchase and use a Railcard, as long as they are eligible for the one they choose. Some Railcards are locked to certain age groups or regions, but anyone can get a Two Together or Family & Friends Railcard, regardless of age and location. However, if you are aged between 31 and 49, there is no solo-travel Railcard available unless you live in or travel around the London and South East area.

How much discount does a Railcard give?

Railcard discounts depend on the Railcard type, but most offer a 1/3 discount on eligible adult fares.

Is a Railcard valid on all trains?

No, Railcard discounts are not always valid on all trains. Railcard restrictions vary by card type, but some are subject to restrictions and minimum fares for certain travel times, usually during morning commuter hours.

Do Railcards work on weekends?

Yes, Railcards are generally valid for use at weekends, as long as they are used on eligible ticket types.