Train Safety Video
Our helpful video contains top tips for navigating the UK railways, along with essential safety recommendations.
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UK Train Travel
A Central Location
Lincoln is a great place to base yourself to explore the rest of the UK. You might wish to use public transport to travel, and it’s important you understand the railway system as it may be different from what you are used to. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, it’s essential that you’re familiar with the do's and don'ts: the etiquette expected of everyone.
Train Websites
The UK has multiple train lines operated by different train operating companies. The National Rail website provides journey planning, guidance on fares and purchasing tickets, and a range of train travel information. There are several train companies that operate at Lincoln station: East Midlands Railway (EMR), London North Eastern Railway (LNER), and Northern.
For companies that cover the rest of the UK, visit the National Rail website.
Guidance on Rail Travel in the UK
Knowing what you should and shouldn't do when taking a train can help you stay safe, avoid fines, and be a good commuter. Please familiarise yourself with the dos and don'ts of train travel.
Dos
Do Plan Ahead
Check the train timetable and plan your journey in advance to avoid missing your train.
Do Buy a Valid Ticket
Always purchase a valid ticket before boarding the train.
Always keep your ticket with you to avoid paying a fine.
Do Offer your Seat
Offer priority seating to elderly, disabled or pregnant passengers.
Do Queue
Form a line behind others in front of you when waiting to board the train. Allow others to get off before you get on without pushing.
Do Stay Safe
Stand behind the yellow line on the platform and be careful when getting on and off the train.
Do Keep Quiet
Talk quietly and use headphones to listen to music.
Do Respect Others
Treat staff and other passengers with respect and do not disturb others.
Do Be Helpful
Offer help to passengers in need and treat others with kindness and courtesy.
Do Be Polite
Use “please” and “thank you” when interacting with staff and fellow passengers.
Do Stay Updated
Keep updated on delays or disruptions from station announcements or mobile apps, such as the National Rail app.
Do Pay Attention
Pay attention to signage and announcements for directions, platform changes, and emergency procedures.
Don'ts
Don’t Travel Without a Ticket
There are fines for boarding a train without a valid ticket. Some tickets are only valid for specific trains.
Don't Walk on Tracks
Not only is it illegal, it is also extremely dangerous.
Don’t Block Aisles or Doors
Keep aisles and doors clear to allow passengers to pass safely.
Don’t Rush to Board Your Train
When you hear a signal, the doors will close, and the train will set off. It’s dangerous to rush onto the train; you might hurt yourself or others.
Don’t Put Feet on Seats
Placing your feet on seats is considered disrespectful and unhygienic.
Don’t Eat Strong-Smelling Food
Do not eat strong-smelling food on the train as this is inconsiderate to other passengers.
Don’t Use Emergency Exits
Do not use these except in emergency.
Don’t Litter
It’s your responsibility to dispose of rubbish (trash) brought onto a train or to a train station. When you leave, put it in a bin.
Don’t Hold Doors Open
Do not hold train doors open as it disrupts the schedule and causes delays.
Don’t Put your Bag on a Seat
Allow other passengers to sit on the seat beside you when the train is busy.
Don’t Have Loud Conversations
Talk softly and quietly.
Fines and Penalties
If you fail to adhere to the rules and regulations, it can result in fines or penalties. Fines for travelling without a valid ticket, littering, or disruptive behaviour can range from £20 to £200, depending on the severity of the offence.
Train Tickets
You can buy a ticket from a machine or the ticket office before getting on the train, but it is better to buy train tickets online before travelling. This will help you find the right ticket and is often cheaper.
There are different types of tickets available. Learn about your options so you can save money by buying the correct type of ticket.
Types of Tickets
Advance Tickets
Usually cheaper, but you must book onto a specific train on a set date and time. If you miss your train, you’ll need to buy a new ticket.
Anytime Tickets
Allow you to travel at any time of the day so you don’t need to worry about missing your train or changing your plans.
Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak Tickets
During less busy times of the day and on weekends, tickets will be cheaper. They are valid during any off-peak or super-off peak time, but not during peak times.
Season Tickets
If you make the same journey three or more times a week, you might want to buy a season ticket. They are available weekly, monthly, annually or for custom lengths.
Railcards for Student Discounts
A 16-25 Railcard is currently £30/year.
16–25-year-olds and full-time students can get a 1/3 discount on train travel in the UK. If you are over 25-years-old, you will need to fill in a 16-25 Railcard application form and bring it to Student Support (Minerva Building) for approval. You can download the application form from the Railcard website, or find it at your local station.
Travel responsibly, respect others, and enjoy your journey!