Travelling in and around London can be expensive as is and with the Railcard discount being reduced down from 34% to 33.4% – plenty of commuters including those with families, travelling with children, people with a disability and veterans are all set to be affected by the change. And while that’s a pretty sad way to end the summer, we’re here to tell you that all hope is not lost. Before the chill kicks in, there’s still hope to squeeze in some day trips and long weekends to Brighton or Eastbourne or Margate and for discounted rates.
Yep, you read that correctly.
The railcard discount cut affects those travellers with a 16-25, a 26-30, or an over-60 railcard but there are still plenty of other ways to reap the same benefit.
One of the most versatile and popular options in London is the Network Railcard, which is specifically designed for travel within the South East, making it perfect for trips into and out of London.
The Network Railcard offers discounts for train journeys in London and the South East of England. It’s a great option for people who live or work in the region, as well as visitors who want to explore London’s outskirts. Here’s why the Network Railcard stands out:
- 1/3 Off Fares: The most significant advantage of the Network Railcard is that it offers 1/3 off most rail fares for travel within the Network Railcard area, which covers London and the South East. This includes popular destinations like Brighton, Canterbury, and Cambridge.
- Discounts for Up to 3 Adults: With one Network Railcard, you can get a 1/3 discount for up to three additional adults travelling with you. This makes it ideal for group trips with friends or family.
- Children Travel for £2: The Network Railcard allows up to four children (aged 5-15) to travel with you for just £2 each. This is a significant saving for families planning a day out or holiday.
- Off-Peak Travel: The Network Railcard is valid for off-peak travel, which includes weekends, bank holidays, and certain off-peak weekday times (after 10:00 am on weekdays, excluding public holidays). This ensures that you can enjoy savings during less busy times, which is perfect for leisure travellers.
- London Travelcards: The Network Railcard can be used in conjunction with off-peak London Travelcards, giving you discounts on both rail fares and all-day unlimited travel on the Tube, buses, and trams within London.
- Annual Cost: The card costs £30 per year, which means the savings can add up very quickly, especially if you use the train regularly. Many users find that the card pays for itself after just a few trips.
Who Can Use the Network Railcard?
Anyone aged 16 or older can purchase a Network Railcard. It’s particularly useful for residents of London and the South East who frequently travel by train, but it’s also a great option for visitors who plan to explore the outskirts of London. The card is valid for one year from the date of purchase and can be used to buy discounted tickets for both standard and first-class travel.
How To Get The Most Out of Your Network Railcard
- Plan Your Journeys Around Off-Peak Hours: Since the Network Railcard is valid only for off-peak travel, plan your trips accordingly to ensure you can maximise your discounts. Off-peak times generally begin after 10:00 am on weekdays, so it’s ideal for leisure travel and weekend trips.
- Combine with Other Discounts: Look for additional discounts that can be combined with your railcard, such as group savings or promotions at popular attractions. Check for deals that accept railcard holders for added benefits.
- Keep an Eye on Special Offers: Keep an eye on special promotions offered by train operators and tourist destinations, which often provide additional savings or bonuses for railcard users.
- Book in Advance: For the best deals, consider booking tickets in advance, especially if you’re travelling to popular destinations during the holiday season. Railcards can be used for discounted advance fares, further increasing your savings.
- Use It on Day Trips: The Network Railcard is particularly useful for day trips from London to cities and towns like Brighton, Windsor, Oxford, and Cambridge. You can save a significant amount on train fares and make the most of your trip with additional discounts on family travel.
Other types of Railcard discounts
While the most popular ones are the 16-25, 26-30 and senior railcard, you can also try the Two-Together railcard which offers 1/3 off fares when two people travel together, the Family & Friends railcard which is great for groups of up to four adults and four children offering great savings for family trips.
Whether you’re a commuter or a visitor looking for day trips from London, investing in a Network Railcard will help you enjoy significant savings, making your travel more enjoyable and less expensive.