Buying your train ticket six months ahead: a passenger perspective

29 December 2025

Every journey begins with a plan. For many passengers, that plan hinges on timing; when to book, how to secure the best fare, and whether plans will stay on track. The current minimum rail ticket booking window is set at 12 weeks.

Transport Focus has worked with the rail industry to explore passengers’ reaction to, and support or otherwise for, that being extended to six months. This qualitative research was undertaken through discussion groups and in-depth interviews across Great Britain.

Buying your train ticket six months ahead: a passenger perspective

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