Getting one’s head around the routeing guide?

[Leogilbert007]

I’m aware the routeing guide is an extremely complicated document, and I’d like to be able to use it but just can’t figure it out. I can figure out the yellow pages, but
a) how did we get here, with such a complicated process for the seemingly simple task of knowing valid train routes? And
b) how can I ”get to grips” with something so endless?
Cheers!

 

[Hadders]

With 2,500+ stations and tickets sold between all of them inevitably there is going to be some complexity when it comes to routeing.

For almost all purposes you don't actually need to understand the routeing guide. You can validate the route you want to use through nationalrail.co.uk or any other ticket selling website.

If you want to get into the minutiae then then it takes a bit of getting your head round it. A fares workshop is a good place to start - keep a look out for upcoming dates in the dedicated thread.

 

[Leogilbert007]

Ok thanks

 

[jfollows]

Read the instructions, starting with the simpler Section A, from which you should be able to understand the process, and some of the detail will stick.
You’ll miss things, of course, but the starting point is relatively simple - look up routeing points and the valid routes between them.
You need to work some examples, perhaps from posts here, see if you can work out how the answer was arrived at.
The “fare rule” is badly explained, but I don’t know if I could do better but it’s vital to understand to disallow routes. The online Routeing Point Calculator is indispensable here I think.
Go on to Section F which has more detail.
It’s an iterative process, you’ll make mistakes, but if you post here others can guide and correct you. Over time you’ll discover more points that stick.
I’ve made lots of mistakes and been guided and corrected here.
I’m sure a fares workshop would be good too, of course.

For example, from yesterday, why is Ryde-Farnborough not valid via Woking whereas Portsmouth-Farnborough is valid via Woking?