I have in my collection a facsimile (1981) of an original Liverpool and Manchester Railway billboard of 1831 (see below) and amongst other interesting facts gives the prices for various fares between the two cities. Now the definitions of First, Second and Third Class had not materialised by 1831 but I think they can be deduced from the description of the accommodation on offer. Open carriages - i.e. no roof (definitely 3rd class!) - 3/6 (17.5p); Glass carriage - 6 inside - i.e. roof and windows (Second Class that eventually becomes today's Standard Class) - 5/- (25p); Glass carriage - 4 inside 'fitted up in a superior style' (First Class) - 6/- (30p). Also note the prohibition on smoking in all of the covered carriages.
Using an
Online Inflation Calculator, the fares inflate to 2018 values First Class £30.23; Standard Class £25.19 and open cattle truck £17.64.
Compare this to today's anytime single by any permitted route of £22.60 (First) and £14.60 (Standard).
