An open return train ticket covers a return journey with no fixed service for the return leg. You book a specific outward train or day, then use the return portion on any valid service within the ticket's validity — usually up to one month. Open returns are a form of Off-Peak or Anytime fare, not a separate ticket type.
How does an open return work?
When you buy an open return, the outward journey is typically tied to a specific date or service. The return portion is left open — you can use it on any train that the fare conditions allow, within the validity period printed on the ticket. Most open returns are valid for one calendar month from the outward travel date.
- The return leg is not tied to a specific service — you just need a valid off-peak or Anytime service on your route
- Validity is usually one calendar month, though some shorter routes have tighter windows
- You can travel on different days for the outward and return journeys
- Open returns are generally more expensive than a pair of Advance singles booked in advance
Open returns were historically the standard way to buy a flexible return ticket in the UK. Many operators have moved toward selling Advance singles instead, and the availability of open returns varies by route and operator.
Are open returns still available?
Yes, though less widely than they were. Most operators still sell Off-Peak Day Returns and Anytime Returns, which function as open returns within their validity periods. LNER, Avanti West Coast and GWR all offer return fares where the return leg is open within the fare conditions.
- Off-Peak Day Return: outward and return on the same day, on off-peak services only
- Off-Peak Return: return valid for up to one month, on off-peak services only
- Anytime Return: return valid for up to one month, on any service including peak
- Some operators have withdrawn named "open return" products but retained equivalent flexible return fares
If you cannot find an "open return" when searching, look for "Off-Peak Return" or "Anytime Return" — these are the same thing under different names.
When does an open return make sense?
Open returns work well when you know your outward date but cannot commit to a return time or day. They are common for work trips, family visits and events where the return might be flexible.
- You know when you are going but not when you are coming back
- Your return date might change — a fixed Advance single cannot be refunded or exchanged
- You want to avoid the cost of rebooking if plans shift
- You are comfortable paying more for flexibility
If both your outward and return dates are fixed, a pair of Advance singles booked early will almost always be cheaper than an open return. The flexibility of an open return costs money.
Can I buy a resale open return ticket?
Open return tickets are transferable under National Rail Conditions of Travel, provided the outward journey has not been used and the ticket is still within its validity period. Travellers who have used the outward leg but no longer need the return sometimes list the return portion — though this is less common.
If you're the one with an unused open return, see can I sell my unused train ticket for how listing one works on SaveMyFare.
More often, you will find complete unused open return tickets listed when a traveller's plans have changed entirely. A resale open return carries the same fare conditions — the same service restrictions and validity period apply from the original outward travel date. Browse available listings on SaveMyFare to see what is currently offered on your route.
How does an open return compare to two Advance singles?
Advance singles are cheaper when booked early, but they are locked to a specific service and are non-refundable. An open return costs more but gives flexibility. The right choice depends on how certain your plans are and how far ahead you are booking.
- Advance singles booked 8-12 weeks ahead: usually the cheapest option for fixed travel dates
- Open return booked last-minute: more expensive than Advance, but offers flexibility if your plans might change
- Resale Advance tickets on SaveMyFare: can be cheaper than an open return when Advance allocations from operators are sold out
If the operator's Advance fares are sold out and you need a one-way or return ticket, browse available resale tickets — unused Advance tickets listed at below face value are sometimes the most cost-effective option when booking late.