Aged 26-30? A ‘millennial’ railcard is going on sale in the UK

If you’re aged between 26 and 30 and are living in the UK, you may be interested in a ‘millennial’ railcard that’s now available. It entitles travellers fitting the requirements to over one-third off most train fares in England, Wales and Scotland.

It’s worth noting that only the first 10,000 to apply will receive the one-year card, which is priced at £30 (€33.82).  The nationwide launch follows a trial across the Greater Anglia network, during which a further 10,000 railcards were sold. A discount card for those aged 16 to 25-year-olds has been in operation since 1974. “The trial of the 26-30 railcard is part of the rail industry’s long-term plan to change, improve and boost communities by enabling more people to travel by train,” said the Rail Delivery Group, which represents the British rail industry. “Research being gathered as part of the 26-30 railcard trial expansion is being used to inform discussions with the Government about a national rollout.”

Chancellor Philip Hammond announced plans for the new discount card in his Budget back in November. With it, all advance tickets and most “walk-up” fares are cut by 34%, though ‘Anytime’ and off-peak tickets have a minimum fare of £12 between 4.30am and 10am and the cost of some peak time travel will not be reduced. The card is only available digitally, and it is intended to be carried on smartphones. Anyone who plans to apply for one will need to pay by card, present proof of age, either through a driving licence or passport and have a digital, passport-style photo.

Applications should be made on the 26-30 railcard website, and holders will need to download an app before they can use the card.