We all know that train tickets here in the UK can reach extortionate prices, but did you know that our trains are, in fact, the most expensive in all of Europe?
Well, that’s according to one new report. Analysis by clean transport campaign group Transport and Environment (T&E) has revealed that Britain’s train operators charge fares more than two times higher than the average cost across the Europe Union for routes of similar lengths.
Great Western Railway was revealed as Europe’s most expensive operator, with fares two and a half times the average EU cost. Avanti West Coast was the second spenniest with prices one and a half times more.
T&E said: ‘It is fair to say that the UK rail system (high infrastructure costs and private monopolies) has a responsibility in this result.’
The study compared 27 different European operators and 8,000 ticket prices. Of course, train fares for the same journey can change depending on when you book them and when for. Researchers figured out ticket prices based on average costs for standard fares in second-class carriages on weekdays, with purchases made both seven and 28 days in advance.
UK operators did get some praise from the study. It said that the EU could ‘learn from the UK on rail passengers’ rights’ as here we can get full reimbursement for delayed trains, while passengers over there are only entitled to 25 percent compensation if their trains rocks up to its destination late.
Britain by train
Elsewhere in rail news, did you see that these three train operators will be the first to be taken under public ownership? Or that the Telegraph has crowned two British train services the best in the world? Plus, it could soon be quicker to get between London and Edinburgh by train, 12 of Europe’s best train journeys are in the UK and one of the UK’s most beautiful train stations is getting a generational makeover.
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