Rail prices to rise by the largest amount in nearly a decade - here are all the details

We explain how prices are changing below, but if you need help finding cheaper fares and cutting costs in the meantime, you can read our Cheap Train Tickets and Cheap Season Tickets guides.

Here's how much rail fares prices will increase by

The following price increases only impact so-called 'regulated' rail fares, such as season tickets and off-peak tickets (see below for more on this). Here's what's happening:

• England and Wales: From 1 March 2022, regulated fares will rise by up to July 2021's retail prices index (RPI) measure of inflation, which was 3.8%. Increases are normally implemented on the first working day of each year but have been delayed until March due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

• Scotland: From 24 January, regulated peak and off peak fares will rise by July 2021's RPI of 3.8%. Peak regulated fares in Scotland also increased by July's RPI in 2021. Transport Scotland says the increase to off-peak fares this year is a "necessary step".

• Northern Ireland: Rail fares aren’t linked to RPI. They are instead determined by Translink, the company that runs public transport in Northern Ireland. We've contacted Translink to ask if fares are expected to rise this year and we'll update this story if we get a response. 

What are regulated rail fares?

The below table details which train tickets are regulated and which are not. 

An increase to unregulated fares in England and Wales is yet to be announced - this is expected to be confirmed closer to March, according to the Rail Delivery Group, which represents rail firms.

In Scotland, Transport Scotland has confirmed that unregulated fares will also rise by up to 3.8% from 24 January. 

'Book with Confidence' scheme extended until April 2022

In addition, the UK Government's 'Book with Confidence' scheme, which is available across England, Scotland and Wales, will be extended until 31 March 2022. The initiative allows rail passengers to change their travel plans up until the night before departure, without being charged a fee, or to cancel their tickets and receive a refund in the form of rail vouchers.

Additional reporting by the Press Association.