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How do I Book a UK Train Trip?

From searching routes to securing your ticket, here’s how to complete your UK Rail booking in just a few clicks.

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Written by James Forbes

Booking a UK rail journey in Melon is quick and simple - just follow these easy steps.

1. Start your search

Select Trains from the booking search menu.

Enter:

  • Your departure and arrival stations

  • Travel dates

  • Preferred travel times

Then click Search.

2. Review and select your train

Your search results will display a range of fares and journey options to help you make the best choice.

What you’ll see in the results:

  • Outbound and return fares
    Compare single and return fares side-by-side.
    Please note: you’ll need to select your outbound journey before viewing all available return options.

  • Departure and arrival times
    Quickly view when each train leaves and arrives.

  • Journey duration and stops
    See the total travel time and number of stops along the route.

  • Best available fares
    The lowest available fare in each category will be highlighted for both one-way and return journeys.

  • SplitSave fares
    If a SplitSave option is available, it will be clearly displayed in the results.

Need more fare information?

Click the “i” icon next to any fare to view the full ticket conditions, including:

  • Change rules

  • Cancellation policies

  • Fare restrictions

Once you’ve selected your outbound journey and fare, you’ll be able to choose your return journey.

When you’re happy with your selections, click Go to Checkout.

3. Confirm your journey details

Review all booking details carefully before continuing, including:

  • Travel dates and times

  • Passenger information

  • Fare selections

4. Add any required trip information

Depending on your company setup, you may be required to complete additional fields such as:

  • Cost centre

  • Project code

  • Reason for travel

Complete all mandatory fields before proceeding.

5. Choose your ticket delivery method

Available delivery options may vary by station, but the most common options are:

E-ticket

Your ticket will be sent via email and can be downloaded directly to your device for scanning at the station and will be avaibale with the Melon Mobile App too.

Ticket on Departure

Collect your ticket from a station ticket machine using your booking reference.

6. Add seating preferences

Where available, you can select seating preferences such as:

  • Quiet carriage

  • Table seat

  • Direction of travel

  • Power socket access

7. Accept the booking terms

Review the fare conditions and booking terms, then tick the box to confirm acceptance.

8. Complete your booking

Click Checkout to confirm your booking.

Your confirmation email and ticket details will be sent shortly after your booking is completed in addition to being available within the Melon Mobile App.

Important Information - Approvals


If your company uses a travel approval process, please note that UK rail bookings are not sent for approval automatically.

Please ensure you have obtained any required internal approval before confirming your booking.

Want more information on booking your UK Train Journey? Check out your Rail Booking Guide and Video!

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