Train Ticket Machines Charging Double the Online Price

Train station ticket machines often charge more than double the online price for certain journeys, a study by consumer group Which? has revealed.

On average, same-day rail tickets can cost 50% more at station kiosks. Many best-value fares go unlisted or are buried under multiple choices on these machines.

The government halted a plan to shut hundreds of England's train ticket offices after public protest, despite initial support from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who later pivoted in response to demands for higher passenger service standards.

Currently, only around one-sixth of government-operated train stations have a full-time ticket office. Which? compared the prices of 75 trips, revealing stark differences, such as a Holmes Chapel to London ticket costing £66 at a machine compared to £26 online, and Northampton to Cardiff for £107 versus £43.

Various reasons were cited for the higher costs at ticket machines, such as not offering advance or split-ticketing deals, and minimizing the visibility of off-peak fares. This pricing disparity may severely affect travelers, especially the elderly without internet access.

With two-fifths of stations lacking a ticket office, those without online access must rely on pricier machines. The Rail Delivery Group acknowledges the need for further fare reforms since 2019, including the introduction of single leg pricing and expanded contactless pay-as-you-go options.

The Department for Transport has also announced an up to 4.9% increase in England's regulated train fares from March, delayed and capped below the rate of inflation. Regulated fares constitute about 45% of all fares and include most commuter season tickets and some long-distance and city-area tickets.