Anytime tickets

Q: What are Anytime train tickets?

Full-price Anytime tickets are fully flexible tickets that allow you to travel at any time on the date stated, with no time restrictions.

Q: Can I use an Anytime ticket on any train?

Yes, unless your ticket is restricted to a specific train operator. Full-price Anytime tickets are valid on any train service along your chosen route on the date of travel.

Q: Can I buy an Anytime ticket on the day of travel?

Absolutely. Anytime tickets can be purchased at any time, even just before you board your train.

Q: What does ‘Open Return’ mean on an Anytime ticket?

An Open Return on an Anytime ticket means that the return portion of your journey can be used on any day within one calendar month from the date of your outward travel. There are no time restrictions, so you can travel at any time of day.

Q: Can I buy an Anytime ticket at the station?

Yes, you can buy Anytime tickets, from our self-service ticket machines or ticket offices at any of our stations.

Enjoy complete flexibility with Anytime train tickets. Travel whenever it suits you, without the worry of restrictions or time limits.

A man sitting on a Southern Railway train

Ticket overview

Full-price Anytime tickets are the most flexible train tickets, allowing you to travel at any time of the day on the date specified. Whether for business or leisure, these tickets provide the ultimate convenience for your journey.

Benefits

Total flexibility: Full-price Anytime tickets allow travel at any time without restrictions on your chosen date.
No pre-booking needed: Purchase your ticket on the day of travel or in advance.
Ideal for changes: Perfect if your plans are uncertain or subject to change.

When can I use this ticket type?

Anytime tickets are valid for travel at any time of the day on the date shown on the ticket. Open return tickets allow flexibility for your return journey, within the validity period.

Things to remember

Higher cost: Anytime tickets are usually more expensive than other ticket types due to their flexibility.
Additional restrictions: These tickets may have extra restrictions when used with a Railcard or other discounts. Please refer to National Rail for full terms and conditions before travel.

For more details of when you can use Anytime tickets, read the terms and conditions.

How can I save further, and what discounts are available?

Railcards: Save up to 1/3 on Anytime tickets by using a Railcard.
Plan your trip: While Anytime tickets are flexible, booking in advance may offer better value if your plans are fixed.

Benefits of buying direct

No booking fees: Unlike some third-party retailers, Southern doesn’t charge booking fees, so you only pay the fare.
Flexible fulfilment options: Choose from eTickets or collect your tickets at the station.
Less hassle if something goes wrong: When you book direct, you’re likely to receive compensation more quickly through Delay Repay compared to booking with a third-party retailer. If you have a Key Smartcard, use Auto Delay Repay via the app for added convenience.

Buy Anytime tickets

Frequently asked questions

What are Anytime train tickets?

Can I use an Anytime ticket on any train?

Can I buy an Anytime ticket on the day of travel?

What does ‘Open Return’ mean on an Anytime ticket?

Can I buy an Anytime ticket at the station?

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