Why are UK train tickets so pricey?

Its often claimed that the UK has the most expensive average ticket
prices in Europe (and maybe even the world?), in terms of distance
travelled.

What are the underlying reasons for this? Surely we're not the only
country to have above inflation price rises each year? Is it the way
the privatised rail structure is set up (ROSCOs for example)? But
then again, fares were pricey under British Rail days too, weren't
they? Have British fares been historically expensive, or was there a
time when they started to become noticeably more expensive, compared
to abroad?

Or is my original assumption wrong and based on myth?
.

Relevant Pages

  • Re: Why are UK train tickets so pricey?
    ... prices in Europe, ... the privatised rail structure is set up? ... then again, fares were pricey under British Rail days too, weren't ... Have British fares been historically expensive, ...
    (uk.railway)
  • Re: Why are UK train tickets so pricey?
    ... prices in Europe, ... then again, fares were pricey under British Rail days too, weren't ... Have British fares been historically expensive, ... travelling 30 mins earlier or later, or making a change of trains en route, ...
    (uk.railway)
  • Re: Why are UK train tickets so pricey?
    ... prices in Europe, ... country to have above inflation price rises each year? ... then again, fares were pricey under British Rail days too, weren't ... Have British fares been historically expensive, ...
    (uk.railway)