Family & Friends Railcard: family train discounts

The Family & Friends Railcard is designed for travelling with children — to visit relatives, for days out, or to the seaside. It is especially good value for a group of adults and children.

What discounts does it give?

Adults get 1/3 off and children aged 5–15 get up to 60% off. Up to 4 adults and 4 children can travel on one card per journey. Children under 5 travel free, but to unlock the adult discount you must buy at least one child ticket (minimum £1). At least one named adult and one child must travel together.

How much does it cost and who can buy it?

A one-year card is £35 and a three-year card £80 (a £25 saving). Any adult aged 16 or over can buy one — there are no eligibility criteria. Two adults can be named on it.

How do you get the most from it?

The card pays for itself in a single family trip by train. Plan so that at least one child travels with the adults — otherwise the discount does not apply. Child tickets are already cheaper, and the card makes them cheaper still.

How do you apply?

Apply online at railcard.co.uk (digital or plastic). When buying tickets, choose the Family & Friends fare and carry the card. If you live in the South East of England and travel mainly around London, compare it with the Network Railcard, which also gives group discounts in that area.

How does the card work on an actual trip?

On one journey, up to four adults and up to four children can travel — handy for outings with a big family or with friends. The key condition is that at least one named adult and one child travel together. For children aged 5–15 the 60% discount cuts ticket prices sharply, and under-5s travel free.

What to watch for?

To unlock the adult discount you must buy at least one child ticket (minimum £1) — a key detail people forget. The card can be digital or plastic, and up to two adults can be named on it. If you live in the South East of England and travel mainly around London, compare it with the Network Railcard: in its area that also gives group discounts. When buying tickets, always choose the Family & Friends fare and carry the card for checks.