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Child travel, including Kids for £2

Whether it’s a school journey, a weekend trip, or a family day out, young travellers can enjoy great savings with a child ticket.

A woman and a child sitting in a train

Ticket overview

Child train tickets provide significant discounts for children aged 5 to 15, making travel more affordable for families. Plus, children under 5 travel free with a fare-paying adult on most routes, making train journeys a budget-friendly choice for families.

Benefits 

  • Discounted fares: Children aged 5 to 15 can save up to 50% on most ticket types. 
  • Free travel for under 5s: Young children can travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult, as long as they don’t require a separate seat. 
  • Flexible ticket options: Choose from Anytime, Off-Peak, or Season tickets to suit your travel needs. 
  • Extra family savings: Combine child tickets with a Family & Friends Railcard or GroupSave for even better value. 
  • Kids for £2 tickets: Up to four children can travel for just £2 each at Off-Peak times on most journeys across the Thameslink network, when accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket. 

When can I use this ticket type? 

Child tickets can be used at any time, depending on the specific ticket type chosen (e.g. Anytime or Off-Peak). They are perfect for school commutes, weekend outings, and family trips. 

Things to remember 

  • Proof of age may be required: You may be asked to provide ID for your child during travel. 
  • Restrictions on Kids for £2 tickets: Children travelling with this offer must be accompanied by an adult holding a valid ticket for the entire journey. 

To find out more about Kids for £2 please read the terms and conditions.

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

  • Railcards: The Family & Friends Railcard gives one-third off adult fares and 60% off child fares for up to four children travelling with one adult. Network Railcard holders can also save with discounts for up to four children and three other adults. 
  • GroupSave: Groups of three to nine adults travelling with children can save even more. 
  • Off-Peak tickets: Save money by travelling during quieter, Off-Peak hours. 
  • Kids for £2 tickets: Up to four children can travel for £2 each at Off-Peak times when travelling with an adult who has a valid ticket. 

Benefits of buying direct 

  • No booking fees: Unlike some third-party retailers, Thameslink doesn’t charge booking fees, so you only pay the fare. 
  • Flexible ticket options: Choose an eTicket for convenience or collect paper tickets at the station. 
  • Delay Repay: Buying directly from Thameslink can mean more straightforward compensation through Delay Repay, in case of any issues. If you have a Key Smartcard, use Auto Delay Repay via the app for added convenience. 

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Frequently asked questions