Phone tracking train ticket trial launches in northern England

A train ticketing trial which involves passengers paying for travel by having their phones tracked has been launched.

Rail minister Lord Hendy said the initiative in northern England will make rail travel “simpler and easier”.

From Monday, passengers travelling on Northern train services between Harrogate and Leeds will be able to pay for their journeys by boarding a train and pressing a button in an app on their phone.

GPS technology in their phone will detect where they get off the train, and they will be charged the lowest possible fare at the end of the day, the Department for Transport (DfT) said.

A barcode will be produced by the app which can be scanned by ticket inspectors and at station barriers.

Passengers who take part in the trial will receive £15 of free credit.

The scheme will be rolled out to services journeys between Sheffield and Doncaster, and Sheffield and Barnsley, in the coming weeks.

Lord Hendy said: “We’re bringing ticketing into the 21st century.

“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.”

Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said: “Introducing smart, location-based ticketing will remove barriers to rail travel and make it easier to get the best value fares without the need to plan ahead.

“I’d encourage everyone to take part in this trial.

“The results will help as we progress our ambition for an integrated Weaver Network seamlessly connecting travel options across West Yorkshire.”

A similar ticketing trial was launched on some East Midlands Railway routes on September 1.

Participants of the initiative will receive £15 of free credit “soon”, the DfT said.

Published: 29/09/2025 by Radio NewsHub