Off Peak times

[Ric.ror]

What times are off peak on trains - I went to Manchester at 10am yesterday returned home at 5.30 and paid full - could I have had off peak?

[mike11111]

Where from?

[squarebear]

I wouldn't have thought 5:30 was off peak as many people will be catching that train after leaving work.

[Ric.ror]

Leeds - does that make a difference?

[dzug2]

An off peak day return would have been fine - leave after 0930 I think and return any time

[dzug2]

and yes off peak restrictions vary in different areas

[Ric.ror]

Well I bought an on peak one as I did not know the times!
It would have been just my luck to get caught and have a fine to pay - I argued with the bus driver on the last leg of my journey as it is!

[haggisbasher]

The off peak times for all railway companies vary and are nor made clear on their web sites. Check which company you are traveling with before you book a ticket. e.g Cross Country after 9.30 no other restriction at the moment. Virgin varies depending on the route.

[mike11111]

I used to work for National Rail Enquiries before they decided that customers would be better served from India rather than Newcastle, and quoting fares was a nightmare. Some journeys would have over thirty different fares, depending on time of travel, advance booking and availability. Return fares between Manchester and London varied between £20 and £200.

[dzug2]

<<Well I bought an on peak one as I did not know the times!>>

I can't see how you can have been sold a peak ticket - you would automatically have been sold an off peak one at the ticket office after 0930