A2English
Buying Train Tickets
Use these phrases when you buy train tickets at the station and ask about times, platforms, and delays.
Key Phrases
Voice
Buying a one-way ticket · 2 ways to say it
Can I get a one-way to Chicago?
casualUS - 'one-way' means you do not come back
I'd like a single to London, please.
neutralUK - 'single' means you do not come back
Buying a return ticket · 2 ways to say it
Round-trip to Boston, please.
casualUS - 'round-trip' means you go and come back
I need a return to Manchester.
neutralUK - 'return' means you go and come back
Asking about times
What time does the next train leave?
neutralAsking about platforms · 2 ways to say it
What platform is it?
casualWhich platform does the train leave from?
neutralAsking about delays
Are there any delays today?
neutralAsking about class
Is this a first-class ticket?
neutralValidating tickets
Do I need to stamp this ticket?
neutralAsk this to see if you must put your ticket in a machine before boarding
Practice Dialogue
Traveler
Hi. Can I get a one-way to Chicago?
Staff
Sure. The next train leaves at 10:15.
Traveler
Great. Is that for first class?
Staff
No, it is a standard ticket.
Traveler
Okay. How much is it?
Staff
Forty-five dollars. You can pay by card.
Traveler
Here you go. What platform is it?
Staff
Platform 4. But the train is late.
Traveler
Oh, no. Are there big delays?
Staff
Just ten minutes. It will leave at 10:25.
Traveler
Thanks. Do I need to stamp this ticket?
Staff
No, you don't. Have a good trip!