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Railcards

Railcards

What is a UK Railcard and How Can it Benefit Your Holiday?

What is a Railcard?

A UK Railcard is a discount card that offers significant savings (typically 1/3 off) on most train fares across the UK. You’ll find a range of railcards to choose from, to suit different circumstances. This includes options for young travellers, senior travellers and friends and family.

The important thing to understand is that railcards are generally annual passes, valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. There isn’t a short-term tourist railcard. Whether or not a UK Railcard is right for you depends on several factors including how long you’re staying in the UK, as well as how far and how often you expect to travel on the rail network.



Key Benefits for Tourists


For tourists, there are some key benefits of UK Railcards:


  • Cost Savings: Many railcards can cut the cost of your train travel by up to 1/3. This makes it more affordable to explore more of the UK via the train network.
  • Flexibility: Once you’ve bought your railcard, you can use it on almost all National Rail services in the UK, not just the Heathrow Express. This opens up the whole country for exploring.
  • Ease of Use: UK Railcards are typically digital cards on a phone app. They’re convenient to carry and easy to use.

Types of Railcards Available


There are a range of different railcards available to suit varying situations and types of people. Some of the most common include:


  • 16-25 Railcard: For younger travellers and students (this can also include mature students).
  • Two Together Railcard: For two named adults travelling together.
  • Family & Friends Railcard: For families travelling with children.
  • Senior Railcard: For those aged 60 and over.

Each has its own eligibility criteria based on factors like age and other conditions. For example, to be eligible to use the Two Together Railcard, the two named adults on the card must travel together to receive the discount.

You can see more details on the different railcards and their eligibility criteria below.

Railcards

Is my Railcard valid on the Heathrow Express?

You can use any of the following Railcards on Heathrow Express, providing you buy your ticket in advance online or at a ticket machine or a mobile sales advisor at Heathrow stations or London Paddington before boarding. Railcards must be presented with your Heathrow Express ticket when travelling to validate your discounted travel.

Do children need a ticket for the Heathrow Express?

*Children aged 15 years and under travel free in Standard Class when accompanied by a paying adult, or can travel unaccompanied if they have proof or air travel such as a valid booking or boarding pass. Photo ID will be required.

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