Families travelling by rail in Wales and the border regions will soon benefit from more flexible and affordable journeys thanks to the introduction of new family ticketing options from Transport for Wales.

The new tickets mean up to two children under the age of 16 can travel for free with each fare-paying adult, a move TfW says will make family rail trips simpler and better value. The change represents a significant improvement on the previous scheme, where free child travel was limited to off-peak periods.

For the first time, these bundled family tickets will be offered digitally via the upgraded TfW app (Version 2.0) and the operator’s website. They will also be available from station ticket machines, ticket offices and from the train manager on board, ensuring passengers can purchase in whichever way suits them.

Alongside free travel for children, key features include both digital and paper ticket options and network-wide validity. This extends not only across Transport for Wales services but also on trains operated on the TfW network by CrossCountry, GWR, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Railway, TransPennine Express and Northern.

TfW says the initiative is part of its ongoing strategy to simplify fares, give passengers clearer ticketing choices and make rail travel more accessible for families planning days out, commutes or longer leisure trips. It aims to support a smoother and more transparent booking experience, encouraging more people to consider rail.

Alexia Course, Chief Commercial Officer at Transport for Wales, said: “We’re proud to introduce Family Tickets as part of our commitment to improving customer experience. This is a big step forward in making rail travel more accessible and convenient for families across Wales and the borders and we hope by offering this ticket product, it will encourage more families to try the train.”

Image: Transport for Wales