The Autumn Budget revealed the first rail fare freeze in 30 years, marking a historic moment to be remembered. What is more, the UK Government is also nationalising its railways, which will become publicly owned. As a result, the new look, logo and app design has now been revealed, taking a first look into what we can expect going forward.
Currently, seven major train operators are publicly owned, with a third of passengers across the UK using them for travel.
The future of UK railways
The news comes after the Government debated the new Railways Bill, bringing together 17 different train operators under one ownership. The move aims to “put money back in passengers’ pockets and ease the cost of living for hard-working people”.
As a result, the Great British Railways will be responsible for maintaining and improving the country’s railways, as well as modernising ticketing and fares.
The new look of the Great British Railways
The new look for the Great British Railways has now been unveiled, featuring the red, white and blue colours of the Union Flag, as well as the familiar double arrow symbol as a nod to our heritage.
Moreover, the new app is set to be a “one-stop shop” for all passengers’ needs, including buying tickets without a booking fee, checking train times and booking assistance for disabled travellers.
When is the rail change happening?
According to the UK Government, we should expect to start witnessing the new look and logos starting in Spring 2026. However, the rollout is set to happen gradually, aiming to minimise any disruption to passengers.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said:
The future of Britain’s railways begins today. I’m immensely proud to unveil the new look for Great British Railways as we deliver landmark legislation to nationalise our trains and reform the railway so it better serves passengers.
This isn’t just a paint job – it represents a new railway, casting off the frustrations of the past and focused entirely on delivering a proper public service for passengers.
With fares frozen, a bold new look and fundamental reforms becoming law, we are building a railway Britain can rely on and be proud of.
Alex RobertsonChief Executive of the independent watchdog, Transport Focus:
Today’s second reading of the Railways Bill, alongside a preview of the logo and ticketing app, marks another step on the journey towards a railway built around passengers. As well as what is written into law, the success of Great British Railways will depend on its people and culture and today gives us a glimpse into what that could look and feel like.
Jacqueline StarrExecutive Chair and CEO of Rail Delivery Group, said:
The Railways Bill presents an opportunity to bring the industry together with a single focus on delivering for our customers and we are determined to play our part in getting it right.
As the industry evolves, our priority remains supporting the rail network to keep people moving and making sure we are delivering a better railway for everyone across the country, now and in the future.
We welcome the government’s commitment to improving the services our customers depend on every day and we will continue to work closely with industry partners to support a smooth transition to Great British Railways.
