ScotRail Peak Fare Removal: Scotland’s Sustainable Rail Savings

ScotRail eliminates peak fares across Scotland, offering significant savings from September 1st. Reduced fares on key routes like Edinburgh-Glasgow.

ScotRail Peak Fare Removal: Scotland’s Sustainable Rail Savings
September 7, 2025 1:36 pm
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Introduction

ScotRail will eliminate peak fares across Scotland, starting September 1, 2025, in a move intended to support sustainable rail travel. This initiative, announced by the Scottish Government, aims to simplify fares and encourage more train usage.

Fare Simplification and Savings

The removal of peak fares will provide significant cost savings for rail passengers. From September 1st, customers will pay the same fare regardless of the time or day of travel. Some journeys will see costs reduced by almost half.

Specific Route Cost Reductions

Substantial savings are expected on several busy routes. A return journey between Edinburgh and Glasgow will cost £16.80, a saving of £15.80 or 48 percent. Other examples include: Inverkeithing to Edinburgh (£7.40, saving £5.20 or 41 percent); Perth to Dundee (£11.20, saving £5.10 or 31 percent); Glasgow to Stirling (£10.80, saving £7.40 or 40 percent); Inverurie to Aberdeen (£10.10, saving £2.50 or 20 percent); and Inverness to Elgin (£16.30, saving £8.50 or 34 percent).

Ticketing and Season Ticket Adjustments

Some routes will not see fare changes due to the absence of peak pricing or existing consistent pricing. The ScotRail website and app will be updated on August 22nd to reflect these changes for tickets from September 1st. Season tickets will maintain their current pricing until September 27th. Regular travelers will save at least 40 percent compared to purchasing five Anytime Day Returns at pre-September rates, a scheme introduced in 2024. Flexipass tickets will be adjusted to maintain a discount compared to single or return fares. Super Off-Peak Day Returns will be discontinued. Railcards, concessions, and enhanced discounts will remain available, with most still valid after 9.15am.

Government and Company Statements

Fiona Hyslop MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, stated that public ownership allows for a railway run for the benefit of the nation. Joanne Maguire, ScotRail Managing Director, emphasized the positive impact for existing and potential customers, aiming to encourage more people to choose ScotRail.

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Conclusion

Starting September 1, 2025, ScotRail will eliminate peak fares across Scotland. This change aims to simplify ticketing, encourage sustainable transport, and offer cost savings on various routes. Season tickets and other discounts will remain in place, while Super Off-Peak Day Returns are discontinued. The initiative is supported by the Scottish Government and ScotRail management.

ScotRail

ScotRail is a railway operator.

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