The government has announced it will create a new online rail ticket marketplace to simplify the process of booking across different options. The Department for Transport (DfT) detailed plans on Wednesday for the model to take shape once the network has been renationalised under the Great British Railways banner.
This new service is expected to be established at the end of 2026, according to reports in the Guardian. The online hub would bring together individual train operators’ ticket websites to provide consumers with the best price possible. It is understood that this will run alongside other private sector services like Trainline, which the Standard has approached for a response.
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A statement from the DfT read: “After Great British Railways is established following legislation, it will retail online by bringing together individual train operators’ ticket websites. “It will work alongside a thriving private sector retail market, where all rail retailers can compete in an open and fair manner. The private sector will continue to play a key role in driving growth through innovation and investment, and encouraging more people to choose rail.”.
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The Standard has approached the DfT for further information. Network Rail releases its tickets around 12 weeks ahead of departure and it is usually cheaper to book your journey sooner rather than later. Not the most original advice, and you’ll be aware that you can save one third on tickets with a 16-24, 25-30 or senior railcard.
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