train travel - london to Leeds (uk)?

Its not worth the risk - you will more than likely be asked for the young persons railcard to prove your entitlement to the fare. As others have said if you're asked and dont have one you will be asked to pay the full open fare for that route (the most expensive) or risk being prosecuted and a criminal record that you will have to declare when you travel, on some jobs applications etc

Its best to book online - you can get some good cheap deals if you book in advance (maybe as low as £10 each way) and are flexible with your dates.

See http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/

If you purchase a ticket selecting young persons railcard you do not have to prove you are under 27, you need to show the inspector the railcard. If you don't have it you will have to pay for a fresh ticket or possibly be prosecuted for fare evasion. I don't know.

Check out MML as they run a few trains a day to Leeds or Barnsley and catch a local train or bus.

GNER are the main operator and will offer some bargains but will have to be booked in advance.

You can fly from Heathrow for £41 single with BMI

You will be asked for your railcard by the revenue protection staff..as you are not traveling for another "few weeks" why not buy an apex ticket [advance purchase] very cheap even 1st class but you will have to buy it at a station at least a week before you travel

well if you can afford the internet you can afford to travel, either that or you dont have a job in which case get one! or you could save up for a ticket, or if its unexpected emergency then you should have savings. HOWEVER,

I do know that travel by rail is expensive but like the other people say there are ways of getting cheaper tickets.

Its probably cheaper to fly!!!

The chances of getting caught are high. A whole section of the railway industry is dedicated to catching fraudulant travellers.

You don't just get a fine, either. It's a criminal record.

Pay your way. If everyone else does, why shouldn't you?

you can order on/line and pay the cheap fare, but it depends on the person that inspects the ticket, if they ask you for proof and you cant supply then you will have to pay the full fare there and then, they could prosecute but its doubtful.

why risk a criminal conviction and a record dogging the rest of your life? if you can't afford a proper fare, which can be quite cheap if booked well in advance, why not take the coach?