How to Use BritRail

Whether you are heading to Scotland for some golf or hiking across the English countryside, Britrail is one of the simplest ways to get around in the United Kingdom. Commuter trains take you to destinations nearby while the sleeper trains will take you from England into the heart of Scotland while you snooze. The trains are very comfortable. They have tables, roomy seats, internet access and a host of other amenities for a comfortable trip.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Britrail pass Passport Timetable
Britrail pass
Passport
Timetable

Step 1

Check your itineary for the amount of days and where you plan to use rail travel. Use this information to decide whether you need a single destination ticket, a Britrail pass for a single region or a standard multi-region Britrail pass.

Step 2

Purchase your pass online (see Resources), from your travel agent or by calling 1-866-Britrail. Purchase the pass before you enter the United Kingdom, as they aren't available from within the UK.

Step 3

Validate your pass at the ticket window at the first train station in the UK that you use your pass. Present your pass and passport to the clerk at the ticket counter. Sign the pass where the clerk indicates and allow them to stamp it with the validation and travel information.

Step 4

Keep your passport and rail pass on you at all times during train travel, as it can be requested by a conductor at any point. Keep these documents in a secure place to avoid loss or theft.

Step 5

Board trains allowed with your pass. Show the pass if asked, otherwise just board the train without visiting a ticket counter after the initial validation.

Step 6

Check timetables for specific trains at the station or online. Verify departure times for your train before leaving for the station each time you use Britrail.

Tips & Warnings

Purchase single destination tickets at any Britrail train station after arrival in the UK. A separate Britrail pass is necessary for Ireland travel.

Purchase single destination tickets at any Britrail train station after arrival in the UK.

A separate Britrail pass is necessary for Ireland travel.

Do not sign the pass until you are at the ticket window, as a Britrail employee must be present when you sign it. Do not allow someone else to use your pass, this may invalidate it.

Do not sign the pass until you are at the ticket window, as a Britrail employee must be present when you sign it.

Do not allow someone else to use your pass, this may invalidate it.

Resources

Britrail passes, timetables and information.

Article Written By Jenny Harrington

Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Her published articles have appeared in various print and online publications. Previously, she owned her own business, selling handmade items online, wholesale and at crafts fairs. Harrington's specialties include small business information, crafting, decorating and gardening.

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