How to find cheap fares

Book early 

When buying train tickets, you'll find the cheapest tickets are available in advance. To ensure you get the best deal, make sure you buy 12 weeks in advance of your departure date as this is when most new tickets are released.

If you can be flexible about when you travel, it is best to avoid weekends. Travel mid-week and you're more likely to get the cheapest train tickets.

Two singles may be cheaper

When you buy your ticket, it is always worth checking if two singles are cheaper than a return. They often are!

Get a Railcard

If you are eligible, you should consider buying a Railcard, which will cut a third off the price of your train tickets.

• 16-25 Railcard
• Disabled Persons Railcard
• Family and Friends Railcard
• Senior Railcard

When travelling with a Railcard discounted ticket please ensure you carry your Railcard with you. You can find out more information on our Railcards page.

Frequent travellers

Frequent Grand Central travellers can save up to 25% by buying a carnet of 10 single tickets. Carnets are available in 'Anytime' and 'Off Peak' versions. Having a pre-purchased carnet means you can guarantee great savings, with each single journey costing from just £30 (off-peak).

To buy a carnet, visit our Frequent travellers page, contact Customer Services on 0845 603 4852 (option 2) or email carnets@grandcentralrail.com.