The cost of travelling into Bradford from Ilkley and Skipton – and all intermediate stations - is to come down, Northern has announced.
The train operator says it is introducing its cheapest ‘Advance Purchase’ fares on the two routes into Bradford Forster Square for the first time.
It means the price of a ticket into Bradford from Ilkley, which can cost £5.80 as a standard day single, will now be available from just £1.80.
On services from Skipton, which can cost £10.10 as standard day single, the price will now start at £1.90.
Advance Purchase tickets are available to buy 12 weeks ahead of travel up until 15 minutes before departure, with the biggest discount available the further in advance you buy.
Across the Northern network, the popularity of Advance Purchase continues to rise – with 10% more of the ticket type sold in 2024 (compared with 2023).
Alex Hornby, commercial and customer director at Northern, said:
“Advance Purchase tickets are increasingly popular and there are more than ten million available on our services across the North of England every week.
“We are particularly pleased to be able to introduce these new fares – all less than £2 each - during the City of Culture celebrations.
"As a proud supporter of Bradford 2025, all of us at Northern are really keen to encourage more and more people to visit the city by train and take part in the year-long programme of events.”
Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council said:
"I’m really pleased to see Northern taking this initiative. They’ve been big supporters of Bradford district including working with Network Rail to invest £120 million into Shipley rail depot.
“Reducing the cost of travelling is a great way of demonstrating Northern’s support for Bradford's City of Culture celebrations this year. And it’s already got off to a great start with over 20,000 people coming to the opening Rise event.
"Using the train is a great way of travelling into the city. Arriving at Bradford Forster Square station takes you right into the heart of the city and access to the great events, venues, and shops so you can have a great day out.
"The new Platform 0 opening from May will also mean greater connectivity with London into the same station."
Dan Bates, executive director of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, said:
“With the Bradford 2025 programme encapsulating the city and district, we’re delighted that Northern are creating further opportunity for Bradford residents to travel sustainably.
"This offer will support residents and tourists alike in their trips to see projects such as Ice Age Art Now at Cliffe Castle, We Will Sing in Saltaire and take in a unique cinema screening at Ilkley Lido.”
Services to Bradford Forster Square from Ilkley call at Frizinghall, Shipley, Baildon, Guiseley, Menston, Burley-In-Wharfedale and Ben Rhydding.
Services from Skipton call at Frizinghall, Shipley, Saltaire, Bingley, Crossflatts, Keighley, Steeton & Silsden and Cononley.
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