Northern Trains has launched a new digital ticketing trial aimed at simplifying travel and unlocking cheaper fares for passengers in Northern England.
From 29 September 2025, passengers on Northern Services between Harrogate and Leeds will no longer need to purchase a ticket before boarding. Instead, the trial uses smart, location-based technology to automatically calculate the cheapest fare on the day of travel, removing the need for pre-booking and making rail travel more accessible.
Rail passengers travelling on Northern trains between Harrogate and Leeds find it even easier to take the train over the Arthington Viaduct to visit Kirkstall Abbey, get to and from work in Leeds city centre or play a round at Pannal Golf Club.
Technology in passengers’ phones will be able to register when they get off the train automatically, and they’ll be charged the lowest possible fare at the end of the day.
Passengers who try the apps will also get GBP 15 worth of free travel thanks to government backing of the trial, with credit automatically added to their account.
“These trials are modernising fares and ticketing, making it simpler and easier for people to choose rail. As part of our Plan for Change, we’re delivering straightforward, stress-free train travel across the North, supporting passengers and boosting economic growth, jobs and homes,” Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, said.
Backed by nearly GBP 1 million (EUR 1.15 million) of government funding, the trials are part of plans to modernise British transport system, putting passenger experience at the heart of every journey and encouraging more people to take the train – building on the government’s mission to deliver growth.
In a further boost for train users in the North, more digital ticketing trials will launch on the Sheffield – Doncaster and Sheffield – Barnsley routes run by Northern, on 27 October 2025 and 24 November 2025 respectively.
Share on:
