UK Expands Contactless Rail Ticketing with £20M Funding

The UK government is implementing a major expansion of contactless rail ticketing across the South East, set to roll out at 47 new stations from February 2, supported by £20 million in funding. The initiative aims to simplify rail travel and ensure passengers access the best available fares, though it was delayed by a cyberattack on Transport for London. The tap-in, tap-out system, popular in London since 2014, will extend to regions including Essex, Hertfordshire, and Buckinghamshire, with stations like Baldock, Hitchin, and Stevenage already adopting it. The system will be expanded to London Stansted Airport in 2025. Officials emphasize that while contactless payments enhance flexibility and ease for commuters, existing discounted railcards may still offer better rates for some travelers. The move is part of broader efforts to modernize the rail network and boost economic recovery by making travel more accessible.