Category: Rail

  • Rail refunds change

    From 1st April 2026, new rail regulations will come into effect which mean that flexible walk-up tickets (such as Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak) will only be refundable prior to the first day of validity.

    • Refunds are not available on the day of travel if you choose not to use your ticket
    • For Open Return tickets, once the outward journey is valid, both parts become non-refundable

    If you want a refund, you should apply for it before 23:59 the evening before the day of travel.

    Additionally, the same-day, post-purchase fee-free refund period is shortened from 1 hour to 15 minutes.
    These changes will apply to all retailers, train operators and points-of-sale.
    Tickets purchased on or before 31st March 2026 will not be affected by these policy changes, even if they were booked for travel after 1st April.

    Your right to a fee-free refund when you abandon a journey due to disruption (delays, cancellations) is unaffected.

    Refund requests from customers who experience significant personal events that stop them from travelling on the day (known as “exceptional circumstances”) will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

    In a nutshell, DON’T BUY A WALK-UP TICKET IN ADVANCE! If you have any doubt whatsoever about whether you will make your planned journey – buying your walk-up ticket in advance will risk you losing the option of claiming a refund or making changes.

    Tickets affected are:

    Anytime tickets

    Off-Peak tickets

    Day Travelcards

    Rover tickets

    Ranger tickets

    Advance tickets are already non-refundable, however the day or time of travel can be changed right up to the time your journey is due to begin (An admin fee may be payable).

  • West of England Line timetable to be restored on Saturday 29 November

    South Western Railway and Network Rail are set to restore the full West of England Line timetable on Saturday 29 November

    A reduced service has operated since August due to the UK’s driest ever spring and summer, which affected track conditions from Yeovil to Exeter

    Conditions have improved and engineers are carrying out track repairs that will allow trains to travel at regular speeds

    When restored, direct train services between London Waterloo and Exeter St Davids will once again run hourly, to their regular journey times. Passengers can check before travelling with journey planners now fully up to date

    Full details are here