A Senior Railcard is the starting point for travelling by train. That’s because it gives you 1/3 off Standard and First Class Anytime, Off-Peak and Advance fares.
Unlock the freedom of the tracks with a Senior Railcard. If you are aged 60 or over, this is your starting point for significant savings on rail travel across Great Britain, whether you are visiting family in London or taking a weekend trip to the coast.
- Who it’s for: Anyone aged 60 or over.
- The Discount: 1/3 off Standard and First Class Anytime, Off-Peak, and Advance fares.
- The Cost: Only £35 for a full year.
Key benefits
- Long-Term Savings: Save £25 by choosing a 3-year Railcard for £80 instead of buying three separate annual cards.
- Partner Rewards: Gain access to exclusive discounts on hotels, museums, and days out through national partners.
- Travel Flexibility: Use your discount as many times as you like throughout the year.
- Digital Convenience: Opt for a digital version that lives on your phone, so you never have to carry a paper copy.
Essential requirements & restrictions
The "Must-Know" Rule: The Senior Railcard is not valid for journeys made entirely within the London and South East (Network Railcard) area during morning peak hours, Monday to Friday.
- Eligibility: Must be 60+; online applications can be made up to two weeks before your 60th birthday.
- Time Restrictions: Valid at any time on weekends and public holidays; weekday use is generally for Off-Peak travel.
- Excluded Tickets: The discount is not valid for Season tickets or Eurostar tickets.
- Travel Evidence: You must have your Railcard with you on your journey and present it to rail staff upon request.
How to buy
- Online: Applying online is the easiest method. You will need a valid debit or credit card, and either a passport number or a UK driving licence to prove your age.
- At the Station: 1-year cards can be purchased at staffed ticket offices. You must bring proof of age, such as a birth certificate, passport, or driving licence.
- App/Digital: Once purchased, digital Railcards can be stored in the Railcard app on up to two devices.
How to use
- Booking: Select "Senior Railcard" from the dropdown menu when using the LNR journey planner to see discounted prices.
- On the Train: Present your digital or physical Railcard to the conductor alongside your ticket.
- London Travel: Link your Senior Railcard to your Oyster card at an Underground station to get 1/3 off Off-Peak pay-as-you-go travel around London.
Frequently asked questions
It is a national discount card for anyone aged 60+. It grants you 1/3 off most rail fares across Great Britain, including First Class and Advance tickets.
There is no "free" national railcard; however, many local authorities offer a free older person's bus pass or local travel permits. For national rail travel and 1/3 discounts across the UK, the Senior Railcard is the primary option.
If you apply online for a digital or physical card, you will need to provide a digital photo. If you are buying a physical card at a station ticket office, a photo is not typically required as your identity is verified using your passport or driving licence.
No, LNR does not fulfil orders directly. These are managed by ATOC Ltd (trading as Rail Delivery Group) on behalf of all train companies.