Rail prices in the UK have increased by an average of 3.1 per cent.

The rise came into effect yesterday (January 2nd) and means some commuters will have to pay over £5,000 for a yearly season pass.

However, the government has pointed out it is actually the lowest price hike in a decade as the increase is simply in line with inflation.

Rail minister Stephen Hammond revealed £38 billion is being invested into the rail network over the next five years as it targets a significant modernisation programme. 

"That means new state-of-the-art trains, better stations and hundreds of miles of electrified track which will help cut journey times, provide better connections and stimulate growth across the country," he added.

According to figures supplied by the Department for Transport, 26p of every £1 spent by passengers goes on investing in the rail network, while 22p covers the cost of maintaining tracks and trains.