Looking for advice as to when and how to secure the best price for second class train fare from Derby to Inverness - one way. We are picking up a car in Inverness and making our way south. We have friends in Derby who can purchase the tickets for us, rather than trying to organise this from Oz. Looking at taking this trip in early May 2015.
Since you can only book 4 months in advance, you can wait a while before shopping. You can see what's up now at: http://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/
You can print your own tickets at home. Looks like traveling mid day will give the best chance of a good price. 84 GBP, leaving shortly after noon, single change in York, arrive after 8 pm.
Keep an eye on the site for any special offerings.
Assuming you are doing at least one other UK rail trip,a Two Together Pass, for £30 will give 1/3off rail fares
Thank you Sam and Richard for this helpful information