To receive the cheapest train fares, buy train tickets 12 weeks in advance. The Network Rail, which owns and operates the rail infrastructure, requires that train timetables be set 12 weeks in advance, so this is usually when tickets are first released. These are usually the cheapest fares and are bought up quickly, so it's important to act fast.
On the other hand, waiting until the last moment can pay off as well. Train operators sometimes offer deals at the very last minute, even up to depature time.
Before you book, it's advisable to check the websites of the relevant train operator for special offers. Virgin Trains, which offers services from London to Edinburgh, advertises frequent specials on its site.
The National Rail website has a section that lists all offers available from several different train operators, searchable by area. The website also has a powerful search engine that provides details of all the different availble fares for your itinerary, and will link you to the train operators so you can book the tickets directly from them and avoid booking fees.
Before buying a round-trip ticket, compare the price with two single tickets. Their combined cost is often less than that of a round-trip ticket.
Train fares are often cheaper if you travel during off-peak times or overnight. Off-peak times are afternoons and from 8 p.m. until the morning commute hours, Monday through Friday.
