Martin Lewis issues 10-day warning to people going home for Christmas via train

Martin Lewis has issued a 10 day warning to train travellers going home for Christmas. Mr Lewis has warned Christmas travellers to mark Friday September 27 on their calendars, as it’s the date most train companies will release their tickets for the festive period.

The BBC Sounds and ITV star has warned it is likely when you'll find the best prices. Mr Lewis said: "Train-ing home for Christmas? Don't wait to book fares. Advance tickets usually go on sale 12 weeks before the date of travel, and that's the best time to grab the cheapest fares.

"So if you know when you want to travel, be ready to pounce in a couple of weeks - and we've a way to ensure you're at the head of the queue." The warning came in the Money Saving Expert newsletter which landed in email inboxes this morning.

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Generally, it's best to start looking for tickets about 12 weeks before you want to travel. Contractually, Network Rail must usually have the timetable set that far ahead, and rail firms commonly release advance tickets shortly after.

On its website, MSE warned: "Be aware though, some firms release advance tickets even earlier than 12 weeks prior, with the caveat that times could change slightly. For example, London North Eastern Railway (LNER) often releases advance tickets up to 24 weeks ahead for routes from stations north of York into London.

"Advance tickets are non-refundable (unless your journey's delayed or cancelled). So if you book and then can't travel – for instance, if you're ill – you won't get your money back." MSE also urges you to consider putting your journey details in the Trainline Ticket Alert website.

This way you will then get an email when advance tickets for your particular journey go on sale, it says.