Why we use this scheme
When a small percentage of people travel without paying, it adds up – the railway loses an estimated £500m every year through ticketless travel and fraud. That’s a lot of money that could be spent for maintenance, staff and improvements. And it’s very unfair for our honest, paying passengers.
We are committed to making sure that all passenger journeys made with us are paid for.
How much is a Penalty Fare?
A Penalty Fare is £100 plus the price of the full single fare applicable for your intended journey. However, if it is paid within 21 days, the Penalty Fare is reduced to £50 plus the price of the single fare applicable.When can I be charged with a Penalty Fare?
You may have to pay a Penalty Fare if you:
- Travel without a valid ticket
- Are unable to produce an appropriate Railcard for a discount ticket
- Travel in First Class accommodation with a Standard ticket
- Are aged 16 or over, travelling on a child rate ticket
- Travel beyond the destination on your ticket.
If you are a disabled passenger, and are unable to easily purchase a ticket at the station where the journey starts, then the appropriate fare, including discount if applicable, can be paid en route without penalty.