GWR among train operators offering discounted tickets in Great British Rail Sale

A train operator serving the Maidenhead, Slough and Windsor areas is offering discounted train tickets as part of the week-long Great British Rail Sale.

Great Western Railway (GWR) is one of a number of train operators across the country offering up to 50 per cent off on selected advance and off-peak train tickets.

For example, passengers with a standard single ticket will be able to travel from Maidenhead to Bath Spa for £17, Bristol Temple Meads for £19, Cardiff Central for £26, Exeter St Davids for £28, and Gloucester for £17.

Customers travelling from Slough can expect to pay similar prices – an advance single ticket to Bristol Temple Meads will cost £19 in the sale, while a ticket to Exeter St Davids will cost £30.

An advance single from Slough will cost £18 to Gloucester and £24 to Newport (South Wales).

Prices are up to 50 per cent of the cost of the most popular advance tickets for those routes.

Tickets can be purchased until Monday (January 12) to be used between Tuesday, January 13 and Wednesday, March 25.

This is the fourth year the Rail Sale has taken place, with last year’s sale saving passengers around £8 per journey across the country.

In 2024, more than £1million tickets were sold, resulting in more than £9million in ticket sale revenue for the industry.

Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: “The Rail Sale is back – and it means further discounts for passengers as we freeze rail fares for the first time in three decades to help ease the cost of living.

“We all want to see cheaper rail travel, so whether you’re planning a half-term getaway, or visiting friends or family, this sale offers huge reductions.

“It’s all part of our plans to build a railway owned by the public, that works for the public.”

Jacqueline Starr, Executive Chair and CEO of Rail Delivery Group, said: “The Rail Sale gives people even more reasons to choose rail, whether it’s reconnecting with loved ones or exploring new places.

“Rail continues to play a vital role in the lives of millions, supporting local economies and offering a more sustainable way to travel.

“This year’s Rail Sale will offer millions of discounted advance fares across the network from January 6, giving customers the chance to save on journeys big and small.

“By making rail travel more accessible, we hope even more people will enjoy the convenience and comfort of travelling by rail.”

Patricia Yates, CEO of VisitBritain, said: “The new year provides the perfect opportunity to hop onto a train and explore Britain’s great tourism treasures sustainably, boosting the economy by supporting our fantastic visitor experiences and attractions.

“Whether it’s a cultural break in one of our vibrant regional cities, a set jetting stay at a world-famous filming backdrop or the friendly welcome from our picturesque coastal and rural destinations, Britain has something for everyone to enjoy, creating memories of a lifetime for visitors.”

For more information and to find reduced ticket prices, visit: www.nationalrail.co.uk/great-british-rail-sale/