How far in advance can I buy my BritRail pass?
You can purchase a BritRail pass up to 6 months ahead of your intended travel date.
Where can I find train timetables?
For information regarding train times, please click on the National Rail website.
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Go to the Journey Planner tab, type in your departure station and your destination, plus the dates you would like to travel for train times.
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The search engine will bring up all the journey details you will need (times, stops, changes if needed, facilities on board etc.)
What if there is no barcode ticket reader?
Not every station has barcode readers installed on their ticket barriers. If you come to a station where there is no barcode reader on the ticket barrier, simply go to the wider, side gate and the member of staff will either scan your M-Pass or visually inspect it and let you through.
What if ticket inspectors on board train services do not have a barcode ticket reader?
If ticket inspectors do not have a barcode ticket reader, still present your BritRail GB M-Pass on your device. The pass has been designed for visual examination by inspectors and train staff.
How many train journeys can I make in one day?
You can make as many journeys as you like in one day. The passes are restricted by days, not journeys.
A day is classified as one calendar day – not 24 hours from the start of the journey. You therefore need to commence your last journey of the day before midnight.
What happens if there are no trains?
If you have a BritRail Consecutive M-Pass and there are no trains on a day during your pass validity (e.g. Christmas Day), you can visit a ticket office to get your pass extended.
Your pass will then be valid for one additional day. Please note that if your train is cancelled but you are able to take an alternate route or a replacement bus, you will not be eligible for a pass extension.
Is there a tour guide included?
No, there are no tour guides on BritRail trains.
Can I buy food and drink on trains in the UK?
Most trains in the UK have either a shop or a trolley service on board. Virgin trains sell sandwiches, snacks and drinks.
Do I need to make seat reservations?
It is not essential to reserve seats on trains in the UK. Generally speaking, it is only necessary to make reservations if you plan to travel on a popular route (e.g. London to Edinburgh) at a peak time (e.g. Friday at 6pm).
To make a reservation with a BritRail Pass you need to take it to the station that you are going to travel from and the ticket office will make seat reservations for you (for a small fee).
What is the difference between 1st Class and standard class?
First class tickets include more legroom, your own table, reclining seats and overhead reading lights.
Some trains also include complimentary Wi-Fi in 1st class. Buy a BritRail 1st class ticket from our website.
Can I use the BritRail Pass on the tube?
BritRail Passes are not valid on London Transport Underground trains or buses.
To travel on the tube, or the Overground trains in London, you will need either an Oyster Card or a London Travelcard.
Is there a luggage restriction with BritRail Passes?
There is no specific luggage limit, but please be considerate to other passengers who may also be travelling with luggage. Most trains have small overhead luggage racks and at least 1 luggage compartment per carriage.
Can I use my BritRail GB M-Pass on the Heathrow/Gatwick/Stansted Express?
Yes you can, but please be aware that this will be counted as one of your days of travel. It should also be noted that the passes are not valid on airport transfers by bus.
Is there a young person’s discount?
Youths between the ages of 16 and 25 (inclusive) are entitled to a 20% discount in both 1st and Standard Class. Please take along a valid proof of age (e.g. passport) when activating your pass. It will not be activated without one.
Is there a senior discount?
Seniors 60 and over receive up to a 15% discount in 1st Class.
Why am I being asked for outbound travel details?
BritRail passes are only available to non-UK residents, and international passport holders.
You may purchase a BritRail Pass if you are a UK passport holder providing that you have not resided in Britain consistently for the previous 6 months. You may also be asked to present proof of return travel from Britain during onboard ticket inspections.