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Student travel savings

Our guide to student travel is packed with tips to help you save money, travel smart and make the most of your journey.

      Student travel made simple, wherever you're headed in the UK

      We know student budgets are tight, that’s why we’ve pulled together the best ways to cut costs on your uni travel.

      Whether you're heading home for the holidays or exploring a new city, LNER has you covered with train tickets for journeys across the whole of the UK.

      From cheap train tickets and Railcard discounts to smart packing and seat reservations, these tips will help you get where you need to be without breaking the bank. 

      Cheap trains for uni travel

      We know student budgets are tight, that’s why we’ve pulled together the best ways to cut costs on your uni travel.

      • Book ahead to save up to 47%*

        Advance tickets = more money for pizza (or overpriced coffees). Booking early not only saves cash but guarantees your seat during busy times like freshers’ week, Christmas, or end-of-term travel.

        Book ahead, travel for less
      • Save 1/3 with a Railcard

        Your 16-25 Railcard is the golden ticket to cheaper travel. Whether you're heading home, off on a weekend getaway, or planning a society trip, a Railcard saves you 1/3 on your trip . More adventures, less cost. What’s not to love?

        Save using your handy dandy Railcard
      • Get £5 off with LNER Perks

        LNER Perks is our loyalty scheme where you get 2% credit back on every LNER ticket you purchase. Join today and get £5 free!

        Join LNER Perks
      • Bring your mates and get 20% off

        Groups of 3-9 save 20% off on LNER Advance tickets, and all you have to do is book as a group instead of individually. Split the cost, share the journey, and save together.

        Group discounts
      • Get a discount on food and drink

        No need to buy before you board. Our Let's Eat At Your Seat service means you can get delicious and locally sourced hot food, sandwiches, snacks and drinks straight to your seat. Plus, students get 10% off with an NUS card!

        See our menu

      Student travel tips

      • Use LNER Luggage Buddy for moving day

        LNER has teamed up with luggage delivery specialists Sherpr to offer a door-to-door luggage service, so you can travel luggage-free, even internationally.

        LNER Luggage Buddy
      • Turn travel time into study time

        With free WiFi and plugs at every seat, you can catch up on uni work, listen to revision podcasts or prep for your next seminar. Don't forget your headphones!

        Onboard WiFi
      • Reserve a seat

        If you've booked an Advance ticket, you'll already have a seat reservation. If you've chosen a flexible ticket, you can easily reserve a seat for free up to 5 minutes before your departure.

        Make a seat reservation
      • Catch trains to catch up

        LNER connects you to loads of uni cities, ideal for visiting friends or exploring new campuses. Travel from York to Newcastle in just one hour, or head to Edinburgh for a weekend of culture and comedy.

        Plan your next trip

      Which university cities do we go to?

      Travelling by LNER train is the easy, fast and reliable way to get to and from uni. So, have a look below to see if we stop at your university city, or check our full list of destinations.

      • m_d_victoria-and-albert-museum-london

        London

        From freshers’ fairs to final-year internships, London is packed with opportunities for students. Whether you're studying in the capital or visiting friends, LNER makes uni travel easy with cheap trains and direct connections. Explore museums, grab street food in Camden, or head to a gig after lectures - there’s always something new to discover.

        Trains to London
      • m_york

        York

        York blends historic charm with a buzzing student scene. Whether you're heading back for term or planning a weekend catch-up, LNER gets you there quickly and affordably. Wander the cobbled streets, grab a coffee in the Shambles, or explore the city’s hidden gems between lectures.

        Trains to York
      • Durham

        Durham’s academic reputation is top-tier - and so is its scenery. Travel by train for a smooth ride to one of the UK’s most iconic uni travel destinations. From riverside walks to cathedral views, it’s the perfect place to study and explore.

        Trains to Durham
      • m_d_palace-of-holyroodhouse-edinburgh

        Edinburgh

        Culture, comedy, and campus life - Edinburgh has it all. Whether you're studying there or visiting friends, LNER makes student travel simple with direct routes and cheap train tickets. Discover the city’s festivals, cosy cafés, and scenic study spots.

        Trains to Edinburgh
      • Northern Secrets Tours

        Newcastle

        Legendary nightlife, buzzing student life, and top universities. Travel from York to Newcastle in just one hour - perfect for weekend catch-ups or society events. With LNER, your student travel is fast, affordable, and always on track.

        Trains to Newcastle
      • m_d_trinity-shopping-leeds

        Leeds

        From lectures to leisure, Leeds offers the full student experience. Whether you're heading to uni or exploring the city, LNER connects you with cheap trains and reliable service. Shop the arcades, chill in the parks, or grab a bite between classes.

        Trains to Leeds
      • Bradford

        From campus life to cultural gems, Bradford is a brilliant base for students. Whether you're studying there or visiting friends, LNER makes student travel easy with cheap trains and direct connections. Explore the city’s vibrant arts scene, grab a curry on the famous food mile, or head into the Yorkshire countryside for a study break.

        Trains to Bradford

      Get the best experience with the LNER app

      From finding you the best deal to live updates on your journey.

      • Exclusive offers with LNER Perks
      • Get the best prices with Deal Finder
      • Real time journey updates
      • Choose your favourite seat
      Apple App StoreGet it on Google Play

      Travel sustainably this term

      Taking the train means you're already cutting carbon compared to driving. Your campus commute, that quick trip home – every journey makes a difference.

      Our Azuma trains produce 15 times less carbon than flying and 7 times less than driving. Feel good about your travel choices. You're helping protect the future we're all working towards.

      Learn more

      Book with confidence

      Book together, save 20%
      No booking fees, ever
      Pick your own seats
      One-click Delay Repay
      £5 free with LNER Perks
      2% back with LNER Perks
      Greener choice