From today, rail passengers across Scotland will pay the same fare regardless of the time or day they travel, as the Scottish Government’s new fare policy comes into effect. This landmark change aims to simplify ticketing, offer better value for money, and encourage more people to choose rail over road.
The removal of peak fares means significant savings for thousands of commuters and leisure travellers. For example, journeys between Edinburgh and Glasgow could be up to 50% cheaper. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to make rail travel more flexible, accessible, and environmentally friendly.
Announced in May 2025, the policy supports Scotland’s net zero ambitions by incentivising sustainable transport choices. By eliminating peak pricing, the government hopes to reduce car usage and increase rail patronage across the country.
Some routes already offer flat fares throughout the day, so passengers on those lines will not see changes. However, most customers can now benefit from reduced fares and simpler ticketing options.
In addition to scrapping peak fares, ScotRail has updated several ticket types:
- Season Tickets remain at current prices until 27 September, offering savings of at least 40% compared to five Anytime Day Returns.
- Flexipass Tickets have revised pricing to maintain savings for part-time and hybrid commuters.
- Super Off-Peak Day Returns are withdrawn, as all-day value fares now apply.
- Railcards and Concessions continue to offer enhanced discounts, valid after 9.15am.
Customers can use the ScotRail website or app to check fares and compare ticket options using the new fare comparison tool.
Joanne Maguire, Managing Director of ScotRail, said:
“This is fantastic news, not only for our existing customers, but for everyone across the country considering rail travel for their commute or leisure journeys.
“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.”
ScotRail continues to lead in customer satisfaction, recently scoring 91%—the highest among major UK operators. Over 200,000 passengers travelled with ScotRail this summer to attend major events including the Edinburgh Festivals, Tall Ships Races in Aberdeen, and concerts at Hampden Park and Murrayfield Stadium.
Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop, also commented:
“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.”
This fare reform marks a major milestone in Scotland’s journey toward a more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable rail network.
Image credit: iStock
