Cheap Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Train Tickets | FAQs

Q: What is an Off-Peak Return ticket?

Not to be confused with Off-Peak Day Returns, the Off-Peak Return ticket requires you to make the outward part of your journey on the date shown on the ticket. The return part of your journey, however, can be completed on any day on an Off-Peak train within one calendar month of the ticket’s issue date.

Q: What is a Super Off-Peak Return ticket?

A Super Off-Peak Return ticket is the same as the Off-Peak Return ticket above, requiring you to make the outward portion of your journey on the date shown on the ticket. The only difference is that you must travel during Super Off-Peak times. The return portion of your journey can be completed on any Super Off-Peak service within one calendar month of your departure.

Q: Can I get refunds for Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets?

Yes, you can normally get a full Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak train ticket refund from the train company in charge of your journey. But, if you’ve bought your ticket with us, we’re happy to do the legwork for you and get in touch with the relevant train company on your behalf.

Q: What are the conditions for Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak tickets?

You’ll need to sit in the class of carriage specified on your ticket (even if the First Class section is empty!), although, you can buy cheaper First Class tickets by travelling during the quieter Off-Peak times – a great way to experience luxury for less. You also need to be aware that Single Off-Peak tickets and the outward part of Off-Peak Return tickets must be used by 04:29 on the following morning of the date of issue. So, for example, if your Single Off-Peak ticket has been issued for Wednesday the 2nd of May, you need to use it by 04:29 on Thursday the 3rd of May or your ticket will expire and won't be valid to use. If your Return Off-Peak ticket crosses over from a Sunday to a Monday, you’ll have no time restrictions on travel for all of Sunday, but on Monday you'll have to travel during Off-Peak times. Additionally, you need to use the return portion of your ticket within one month of the outward portion of your journey.

If you’re hunting for some info on Off-Peak train tickets, then congratulations, you’ve come to the right place! Off-Peak tickets can help you save money on your rail travel, but there are some rules and restrictions on their use. Luckily, we’ve got all the details you’ll need below.

What are Off-Peak train tickets?

Off-Peak tickets are semi-flexible tickets that let you travel by train at certain times of the day, certain days in the week or on specific routes. These tickets are normally cheaper because of the restrictions they place on travel times, Usually avoiding the nightmarish ‘rush hour’ for morning and evening commuters.

It’s often hard to find specific Off-Peak train times online because they differ based on the popularity of each route, the direction of travel, and the train company operating the route. But fear not! By downloading our handy app, you'll be able to check for Off-Peak train times in a flash.

Alternatively, you can visit our Off-Peak train times and Flexible train tickets pages for more info.

What is an Off-Peak Day Return ticket?

An Off-Peak Day Return ticket is the name for a cheaper day return ticket valid for travel to and from a destination on Off-Peak trains only. Generally, you won’t be able to travel with an Off-Peak ticket during Peak times if you’re departing from or arriving at any London station.

An Off-Peak day ticket is great for outer-city travel at a lower price than standard Return tickets.

What are Super Off-Peak train tickets?

Super Off-Peak tickets are simply an even more restricted version of Off-Peak tickets, usually only made available at the quietest of times during the week. Super Off-Peak tickets are often cheaper than standard Off-Peak tickets, so they're ideal if you work unconventional hours, or are taking a weekend or bank holiday leisure trip.

Can I use a Railcard for an extra discount?

Yes, you certainly can. The following Railcards will get you a 1/3 off the price for Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets, a great way to get further discounts on already cheap Off-Peak train tickets.

16-25 Railcard

Also known as the Student Railcard, receive 1/3 off on selected trains.

Disabled Persons Railcard

At just £20, this is the cheapest of the National Railcards on offer.

Family & Friends Railcard

Take the whole family out when using this fantastic railcard.

Network Railcard

Valid for those travelling in the south-east, this card is great for people in and around London.

Senior Railcard

Enjoy retirement by visiting UK landmarks with discounted train travel.

Two Together Railcard

Travel with one other nominated person for discounted trains across the UK.

What is an Off-Peak Return ticket?

What is a Super Off-Peak Return ticket?

What are the conditions for Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak tickets?

Can I get refunds for Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets?

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Off-Peak train tickets