Train passengers could see regulated rail fares increase by more than 4 per cent in 2027. This potential rise is based on the Office for National Statistics announcing that Retail Prices Index (RPI) inflation rose to 3.2 per cent in July.
If a formula similar to last year's cap, which was one percentage point above RPI, is applied, the cost of train travel could jump by 4.2 per cent. This would mean an annual season ticket from Brighton to London rising by £219 to £5,423. A flexi ticket for two days per week over a year from Leeds to Manchester could increase by £151.35 to £3,754.95.
Regulated rail fares, which include season tickets on most commuter journeys and some off-peak long-distance returns, were frozen this year by Keir Starmer's government. Approximately 45 per cent of fares on Britain's railways are regulated by the Westminster, Scottish, and Welsh governments.
A Department for Transport spokesperson stated that no decision has been made on fares after the current freeze ends, and all options are being carefully considered.