Travellers are more likely to get a train between cities than fly - despite expecting it to cost more, and take longer. Two thirds of people would consider taking a train for journeys such as London to Glasgow, or Aberdeen to Manchester, according to a poll of 2,000 adults. In comparison, only 13% would opt for flying between cities.

More than half (54%) think trains offer more choice and flexibility than flying, and are more reliable. Meanwhile, 61% consider it to be better for the environment.

The research was published by transport consultancy Steer and commissioned by Rail Delivery Group as part of the wider ‘Clearing the Air’ report which compared rail and domestic air travel across seven key GB routes.

When comparing data from the rail industry’s Latest Earnings Networked Nationally Overnight (LENNON) system with air fare data from the Official Airline Guide (OAG), it a train journey between London and Manchester cost passengers an average £45 in 2025 – though they expected it to be £88 – meanwhile, a flight between the two cities cost £115, before extras such as seats and luggage are accounted for.

These additional costs – along with transfers and airport changes – means travelling by plane costs 71% more on average than travelling by train.

What’s more, by comparing the two, across the routes, passengers saved an average of £147 per journey by travelling by train instead of by plane.

Jacqueline Starr, executive chair and chief executive officer at Rail Delivery Group, said: “This research highlights the benefits rail can offer passengers, from lower costs and lower carbon emissions to more time that can be spent, relaxing or staying productive.

“With frequent services connecting cities across Britain, rail offers a convenient, flexible and attractive way to travel”.

Looking at the routes, those travelling between London and Newcastle can save an average of an hour going by train instead of flying. And for a business traveller making the London–Newcastle journey once a week, that adds up to the equivalent of a full working day every month.

The report also claims an estimated 93% of a rail journey can be spent working, reading, relaxing or staying connected compared with just 33% of a domestic flight journey once checking in, security and boarding time are taken into account.

As a result, passengers travelling by train gain an average of three hours more usable time per journey than those who fly.

The research comes as the Government rolls out its Great British Summer Savings scheme, with a temporary VAT reduction on eligible family attractions and days out helping households get more value from leisure trips across Great Britain this summer.

Andrew Stokes, director at VisitEngland, added: “There’s something special about visiting the treasures of our nations and regions by train.

“Whether it’s a cultural city break, a set jetting stay or a trip to one of our picturesque coastal or rural destinations, travelling by rail offers an easy, efficient and environmentally friendly way to explore more and enjoy spectacular scenery along the way.”