ScotRail simplifies ticketing and scraps peak fares in bid to make rail first choice

ScotRail, the Scottish government-owned “operator of last resort” train operating company, has this month scrapped peak fares for all ScotRail services

The policy announced in May aims to make train fares simpler, more flexible and better value for money.

The significant change to the fare structure supports the government’s ambition to achieve net zero by providing more people with the opportunity to use trains as their primary form of transport.

Removing peak fares will mean significant savings for customers across the country, says ScotRail, with some journeys set to reduce by almost 50% – including those between Edinburgh and Glasgow.

For example a return fare from Edinburgh to Glasgow is now £16.80, regardless of the time of day travelled. For comparison a Southern service peak day return fare from Brighton to London Victoria – a similar distance – costs £59.40.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop said “Public ownership has created the opportunity to deliver a railway which is run for the benefit of the nation. ScotRail is one of the fastest growing operators, with one of the best passenger satisfaction rates and we are building even further on this success by removing peak fares for good.

“We want more people to choose to travel by public transport for work, study and leisure but we know that many are still struggling with cost-of-living pressures. By removing peak fares, we are making ticketing more simple and more straightforward while at the same time supporting a shift towards sustainable public transport, protecting the climate, and saving people money.”

Joanne Maguire, ScotRail Managing Director, said, “Travelling by train remains one of the most convenient ways to get around, and with simpler, more affordable fares, we hope to see many more people choose ScotRail.”

The Scottish government officially dropped its target to reduce car kilometres by 20% by 2030 in April this year.