How to Use Trains in the UK: A Simple Guide for Overseas Visitors
- Victoria, owner of Cotswold Teacup Tours
- Feb 3
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 4
Why UK National Rail Is Different from the London Tube (and what to know before you travel)
This guide is specifically for overseas travellers who feel confident in London — but are about to use UK National Rail trains to travel between cities, towns, and the countryside. Once you understand how to use trains in the UK, train travel becomes straightforward, relaxed, and even enjoyable.
London Trains vs UK National Rail (This Is Where People Get Caught Out)
London’s transport system works like a metro:
You can usually tap in and out
Trains are frequent
Seats are rarely reserved
Prices don’t change day to day
UK National Rail trains are different. These are the trains you use to travel between places — for example London to Oxford, Bath, York, or the Cotswolds.
Here’s what’s different:
You usually need to buy a ticket before you travel
Prices increase closer to the travel date
Some trains have reserved seating
Platforms are often announced shortly before departure
Once you know this, everything else makes sense.
Book Tickets Early (This Saves Money)
It’s a good idea to book UK train tickets as early as possible. Unlike London transport, National Rail fares are dynamic and often increase as the travel date approaches — especially on popular routes.
Many visitors find Trainline the easiest option because it allows you to search, compare, and buy tickets in one place.
Always Buy Return Tickets
Whenever you can, buy a return ticket rather than two single journeys. Returns are usually cheaper and better value.
Common Ticket Types (Plain English)
Advance – Cheapest, but tied to a specific train
Off-Peak – Flexible travel outside busy hours
Anytime – Maximum flexibility, highest price
If you’re unsure, Off-Peak tickets are often the best balance for visitors.
Peak vs Off-Peak Travel (When Trains Are Busiest)
Peak times are typically:
Weekdays from around 6:30–9:30am
Weekdays from around 4:00–6:30pm
Off-Peak travel is:
Cheaper
Less crowded
More relaxed
If you can travel mid-morning or early afternoon, it’s usually the easiest experience.
What to Expect at the Station
Arrive at the station around 15–20 minutes early.
Check the departure boards and look for your destination, not the train number. Platforms are often announced close to departure — this is normal. London Paddington and Marylebone Stations are notoriously slow at posting which platform to go to.
Ticket Gates
Many stations have ticket barriers. You’ll scan your digital ticket or insert your paper ticket to enter and again when you exit at your destination.
Keep your ticket until the end of your journey.
How to Board the Train
Train Doors
UK National Rail train doors do not usually open automatically.
When the train stops, look for an illuminated button on or near the door and press it to open.
Seating on UK Trains
Some trains have reserved seats, especially on longer routes.
Reserved seats are clearly labelled above or beside the seat
If a seat is unmarked, it’s free to use
If you accidentally sit in a reserved seat, someone may politely let you know — it’s completely normal and not a problem.
Luggage: Where Suitcases Go
There are no formal luggage limits on UK trains.
Large suitcases go in luggage racks at the end of each carriage
Medium bags may fit in shared racks inside the carriage
Small bags can go overhead or by your feet
How to Get off the Train!
When it’s time to get off the train, you need to push the button to open the doors.
The doors DO NOT open automatically when the train arrives at the station.
There have been a few times when my guests have not pressed the button and carried on to the next station, with me following in hot pursuit in my car!
Facilities
The toilets on the trains are usually kept in good clean condition. Not every station has a toilet, so its safer to hedge your bets and use the train toilets.
There are sometimes drinks and snacks trolleys that are wheeled up and down the carriages by staff. They end to be a bit irregular. I always bring my own little snacks with me, then I know I have my trusty cup of tea with me.
The seats in standard class have little pull down trays for your drinks or laptop.
Changing Trains (Don’t Worry — It’s Easier Than It Sounds)
If your journey includes a change:
Check the departure boards when you arrive
Always re-check the platform number
Follow signs and allow a little extra time
If a delay causes you to miss a connection, railway staff can usually help you board the next available train.
Delays, Cancellations & Compensation
Delays do happen, but there are protections in place:
If your train is delayed, you may be entitled to compensation
If your train is cancelled, you can usually take the next available service
Refunds are claimed online after travel
Always keep your ticket.
UK Train Etiquette (Helpful to Know)
Let passengers off before boarding
Stand on the right on escalators, walk on the left
Quiet carriages are clearly marked
Eating and drinking on trains is completely normal ( but no smelly foods please!)
Why Trains Are Often Better Than Driving
For visitors, trains offer:
City-centre to city-centre travel
No parking stress
Scenic countryside views
Time to relax rather than navigate
For rural areas, trains combined with taxis or hosted experiences work very well.
Quick Confidence Checklist
By now, you’ll recognise:
Door buttons on trains
Luggage racks
Reserved seat signs
Departure boards and platform announcements
If you’ve read this once, you’re ready.
Final Thought
UK trains can feel unfamiliar at first — especially if you’ve only used London’s Tube. But with a little context, they’re one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore the country.
If you prefer not to navigate it all yourself, guided, car-free travel can remove the stress completely and let you focus on enjoying the journey.
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