ScotRail scraps peak fares permanently, effective from September 2025.
ScotRail, one of the leading rail operators in the United Kingdom, is set to shake up the train travel industry with a significant overhaul of its fares system. Starting from 1 September 2025, ScotRail will no longer apply peak fares, aiming to make train travel more accessible and affordable for all.
Fiona Hyslop, the Scottish Government's Cabinet Secretary for Transport, is spearheading this change. The move is part of the government's strategy to encourage more people to travel by rail instead of using cars, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
One of the most noticeable changes will be a reduction in the cost of return tickets. For instance, a journey between Edinburgh and Glasgow will cost £16.80 instead of the current £32.60, marking a 48% decrease. Similarly, a return ticket between Perth and Dundee will cost 31% less, and the price for a journey between Inverness and Elgin will be reduced by 34%.
Joanne Maguire, ScotRail's Managing Director, expressed her enthusiasm about the changes, stating, "This is good news for our existing customers and everyone considering rail travel. With simpler, more affordable fares, we hope to see many more people choose our services."
Season Tickets will remain at their current pricing until 27 September, offering a saving of at least 40% compared to purchasing five Anytime Day Return tickets at pre-1 September prices. Flexipass tickets will also have adjusted pricing from the same date to ensure they continue to offer a saving compared to buying multiple Anytime Single or Return tickets.
Railcards, concessions, and enhanced discounts will continue to be available, with most remaining valid for travel after 9:15 am. Peak fares, which typically apply to journeys made before 9:15 am and between 4:42 pm and 6:30 pm, will be scrapped, making train fares simpler and more flexible.
ScotRail's current customer satisfaction rate of 91% makes it one of the best operators in the UK. With these changes, the company hopes to further increase its popularity, making train travel an even more convenient way to get around. The removal of peak fares is expected to significantly boost the number of people choosing to travel by rail, contributing to a more sustainable and less congested transport network.
