Train ticket prices slashed by more than 50% as huge rail sale returns across UK

The Great British Rail Sale is returning in the new year, and train ticket prices will be slashed by up to 50% or more.

Millions of discounted train tickets for half term activities, weekend getaways, and even commuting will be up for grabs next week, as the week-long rail sale – which is set to run from 6 to 12 January 2026 – will give passengers the chance to save well over 50% on many advance and off-peak tickets.

The reduced fares can be used to travel on thousands of popular routes between 13 January and 25 March 2026. 

Nearly all train operators are taking part, with routes spanning the entire country.

For example, those who may be planning a quick getaway abroad over the next couple of months will be able to save quite a few pennies, as journeys from Manchester Piccadilly to Manchester Airport will cost just £1.20, down from £2.90.

This is the fourth year of the Great British Rail Sale, with last year’s sale selling more than one million tickets and saving passengers around £8 per journey, as well as generating £9 million in ticket sale revenue for the industry. 

“The Rail Sale is back,” commented Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander. “And that means further discounts for passengers as we freeze rail fares for the first time in three decades to help ease the cost of living.

“We all want to see cheaper rail travel, so whether you’re planning a half term getaway, or visiting friends or family, this sale offers huge reductions.”

This year’s sale comes as the Government aims to ‘ease the cost of living’ for hard-working people by freezing rail fares for the first time in 30 years.

Read more:

• TfGM and Andy Burnham confirm all Bee Network fares will be frozen for 2026
• First Bee Network train unveiled as Greater Manchester prepares to integrate public transport in 2026
• Exciting new CGIs released of Greater Manchester town’s first train station in 60 years

If you weren’t aware, the Government is also in the process of bringing in major reform to Britain’s rail services by establishing Great British Railways (GBR) – which is the new, nationalised organisation to run the railway uniting together 17 different organisations under a single directing mind.

You can search deals and book your tickets here.

Featured Image – Wikimedia Commons