Train fares across England are expected to rise by 5.8% in 2026, sparking concern among passengers already under pressure from higher living costs.
The projected increase follows July’s retail prices index reading of 4.8%, which came in higher than forecast. Traditionally, rail fare rises are pegged at one percentage point above the July inflation figure, a formula used last year when fares climbed by 4.6%.
Regulated fares, which account for almost half of all rail journeys, would see the sharpest impact. These include season tickets, off-peak long-distance returns, and flexible urban rail tickets.
A 5.8% rise would push the cost of an annual season ticket from Gloucester to Birmingham up by £312 to £5,696, while commuters travelling from Woking to London would face an increase of £247, taking the price to £4,507.
Passenger groups have warned that further price hikes risk deterring people from using rail services at a time when many households are already struggling with rising food and travel costs.
Campaigners argue that the government, which is gradually bringing train operators under public control through the new Great British Railways structure, has a critical opportunity to deliver a fairer and more affordable fare system.
The Department for Transport has not yet confirmed next year’s rates but is expected to announce a decision later in 2025. While regulated fares fall under government control, unregulated fares, including many advance tickets, are also likely to increase in line with the rise.
Rail fares in Britain have consistently risen above inflation for more than 25 years, with the exception of 2023, when the government intervened during the post-pandemic inflation surge. Despite that move, fares still increased by up to 5.9%.
The debate over fare policy comes at a pivotal moment, with Labor nationalizing train operators and restructuring the system to encourage more passengers onto the network. Passenger watchdogs argue that 2026 will be the government’s first real test to balance affordability with investment in the railways.
