Explained in plain English
Why are trains so expensive?
Train fares in the UK are often high due to a mix of factors. Operating costs, including staff wages and infrastructure maintenance, are significant. The fragmented nature of the rail network, with multiple operators and Network Rail, also adds complexity and cost. This all contributes to the price you pay, even for overcrowded routes like Thameslink.
Stories that explain this
Thameslink named Britain's most overcrowded train routeQuestions this opens up
Who sets train fares? What are train operating costs? Is UK rail subsidised?This explainer came from a news story
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