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Best Bus Service
Best Bus Service
Best Bus Service
Submission Criteria
Previous Winner
A submission in this category should demonstrate
How changes to, or the introduction of a new, bus service and facilities have brought about improvements including an increase in passenger numbers, modal shift, improved customer satisfaction ratings; or improved reliability.
Submission Criteria
Previous Winner
A submission in this category should demonstrate
How changes to, or the introduction of a new, bus service and facilities have brought about improvements including an increase in passenger numbers, modal shift, improved customer satisfaction ratings; or improved reliability.
Submission Criteria
Previous Winner
A submission in this category should demonstrate
How changes to, or the introduction of a new, bus service and facilities have brought about improvements including an increase in passenger numbers, modal shift, improved customer satisfaction ratings; or improved reliability.
Arriva UK Bus
Arriva South's Route 101 in Gillingham
Arriva’s Route 101 is Kent’s longest-running bus service, launched in 1909 and still vital today. Linking Maidstone, Chatham and Gillingham, it carries 1.7 million passengers a year, providing the only direct connection between two of Kent’s largest towns without a rail link. Running up to every 12 minutes on weekdays, the service crosses major motorways and connects with key rail stations. Despite congestion, it has grown 17% since 2019, with punctuality rising from 78% to 88% following a timetable redesign. Investment of £4m in 14 new Euro 6 vehicles in 2024 has delivered modern interiors, USB charging and enhanced safety systems. The 101 benefits from a dedicated fleet and driver team, and serves as a testbed for innovation projects, including Lean Engineering. Combining history with modernisation, the route exemplifies reliable, customer-focused service while underpinning regional connectivity and reducing reliance on private cars.
Arriva UK Bus
Arriva South's Route 101 in Gillingham
Arriva’s Route 101 is Kent’s longest-running bus service, launched in 1909 and still vital today. Linking Maidstone, Chatham and Gillingham, it carries 1.7 million passengers a year, providing the only direct connection between two of Kent’s largest towns without a rail link. Running up to every 12 minutes on weekdays, the service crosses major motorways and connects with key rail stations. Despite congestion, it has grown 17% since 2019, with punctuality rising from 78% to 88% following a timetable redesign. Investment of £4m in 14 new Euro 6 vehicles in 2024 has delivered modern interiors, USB charging and enhanced safety systems. The 101 benefits from a dedicated fleet and driver team, and serves as a testbed for innovation projects, including Lean Engineering. Combining history with modernisation, the route exemplifies reliable, customer-focused service while underpinning regional connectivity and reducing reliance on private cars.
Arriva UK Bus
Arriva South's Route 101 in Gillingham
Arriva’s Route 101 is Kent’s longest-running bus service, launched in 1909 and still vital today. Linking Maidstone, Chatham and Gillingham, it carries 1.7 million passengers a year, providing the only direct connection between two of Kent’s largest towns without a rail link. Running up to every 12 minutes on weekdays, the service crosses major motorways and connects with key rail stations. Despite congestion, it has grown 17% since 2019, with punctuality rising from 78% to 88% following a timetable redesign. Investment of £4m in 14 new Euro 6 vehicles in 2024 has delivered modern interiors, USB charging and enhanced safety systems. The 101 benefits from a dedicated fleet and driver team, and serves as a testbed for innovation projects, including Lean Engineering. Combining history with modernisation, the route exemplifies reliable, customer-focused service while underpinning regional connectivity and reducing reliance on private cars.
WINNER
Brighton & Hove and Metrobus
1X express route
Launched in July 2024, the 1X express route supplements Brighton & Hove’s busy Number 1, offering a faster, limited-stop service across the city. Branded in striking fuchsia, it stops at five key landmarks, cutting up to 20 minutes off journey times. A £2m investment funded new branded buses and a strong marketing campaign themed around speed and the Olympics, including high-profile promotions with athlete Sally Gunnell. In its first nine months, the 1X carried over 1.1m passengers, with combined patronage on the 1/1X corridor growing 21.7% without reducing usage on parallel services. Profit margins on the corridor increased from 24.7% to 41.9%, showing the express service generated true growth. Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with passengers valuing the quicker, more direct journeys. The 1X has become a flagship for innovation, demonstrating how listening to customer demand can reshape networks and attract people out of cars.
WINNER
Brighton & Hove and Metrobus
1X express route
Launched in July 2024, the 1X express route supplements Brighton & Hove’s busy Number 1, offering a faster, limited-stop service across the city. Branded in striking fuchsia, it stops at five key landmarks, cutting up to 20 minutes off journey times. A £2m investment funded new branded buses and a strong marketing campaign themed around speed and the Olympics, including high-profile promotions with athlete Sally Gunnell. In its first nine months, the 1X carried over 1.1m passengers, with combined patronage on the 1/1X corridor growing 21.7% without reducing usage on parallel services. Profit margins on the corridor increased from 24.7% to 41.9%, showing the express service generated true growth. Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with passengers valuing the quicker, more direct journeys. The 1X has become a flagship for innovation, demonstrating how listening to customer demand can reshape networks and attract people out of cars.
WINNER
Brighton & Hove and Metrobus
1X express route
Launched in July 2024, the 1X express route supplements Brighton & Hove’s busy Number 1, offering a faster, limited-stop service across the city. Branded in striking fuchsia, it stops at five key landmarks, cutting up to 20 minutes off journey times. A £2m investment funded new branded buses and a strong marketing campaign themed around speed and the Olympics, including high-profile promotions with athlete Sally Gunnell. In its first nine months, the 1X carried over 1.1m passengers, with combined patronage on the 1/1X corridor growing 21.7% without reducing usage on parallel services. Profit margins on the corridor increased from 24.7% to 41.9%, showing the express service generated true growth. Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with passengers valuing the quicker, more direct journeys. The 1X has become a flagship for innovation, demonstrating how listening to customer demand can reshape networks and attract people out of cars.
First Bus East: Network Norwich
Electrifying Norwich’s Bus Network
Network Norwich is leading the transition to zero-emission public transport. Supported by £14.7m in ZEBRA funding, First Bus East is replacing its fleet with 70 battery-electric buses by 2025, making Norwich one of the UK’s first fully electric bus cities. Depot electrification has been completed, with innovative charging infrastructure allowing overnight recharging and intelligent load balancing. The new vehicles feature air conditioning, USB charging and improved accessibility, delivering a quieter, cleaner and more comfortable journey for passengers. The project is forecast to cut 3,500 tonnes of CO2 annually, alongside significant reductions in NOx and particulate emissions, improving citywide air quality. Passenger feedback highlights the smoother ride and cleaner image of the network. Norwich’s electrification programme not only supports local climate goals but provides valuable insights for other UK towns and cities embarking on decarbonisation, positioning it as a national leader in sustainable bus operations.
First Bus East: Network Norwich
Electrifying Norwich’s Bus Network
Network Norwich is leading the transition to zero-emission public transport. Supported by £14.7m in ZEBRA funding, First Bus East is replacing its fleet with 70 battery-electric buses by 2025, making Norwich one of the UK’s first fully electric bus cities. Depot electrification has been completed, with innovative charging infrastructure allowing overnight recharging and intelligent load balancing. The new vehicles feature air conditioning, USB charging and improved accessibility, delivering a quieter, cleaner and more comfortable journey for passengers. The project is forecast to cut 3,500 tonnes of CO2 annually, alongside significant reductions in NOx and particulate emissions, improving citywide air quality. Passenger feedback highlights the smoother ride and cleaner image of the network. Norwich’s electrification programme not only supports local climate goals but provides valuable insights for other UK towns and cities embarking on decarbonisation, positioning it as a national leader in sustainable bus operations.
First Bus East: Network Norwich
Electrifying Norwich’s Bus Network
Network Norwich is leading the transition to zero-emission public transport. Supported by £14.7m in ZEBRA funding, First Bus East is replacing its fleet with 70 battery-electric buses by 2025, making Norwich one of the UK’s first fully electric bus cities. Depot electrification has been completed, with innovative charging infrastructure allowing overnight recharging and intelligent load balancing. The new vehicles feature air conditioning, USB charging and improved accessibility, delivering a quieter, cleaner and more comfortable journey for passengers. The project is forecast to cut 3,500 tonnes of CO2 annually, alongside significant reductions in NOx and particulate emissions, improving citywide air quality. Passenger feedback highlights the smoother ride and cleaner image of the network. Norwich’s electrification programme not only supports local climate goals but provides valuable insights for other UK towns and cities embarking on decarbonisation, positioning it as a national leader in sustainable bus operations.
First Bus North & West Yorkshire
Record-breaking York Park and Ride
York’s Park and Ride, run by First Bus North & West Yorkshire with City of York Council, is the UK’s largest all-electric network. Its six sites provide over 5,000 parking spaces, serviced by 33 electric buses. In 2024, the network recorded 4.5m passengers—its busiest year since 2017 and almost 1m more than 2023. December 2024 alone saw nearly 500,000 passengers, the highest monthly figure in a decade, equating to 61,700 fewer cars entering the city. November also set a record with 10% growth on previous years. Customer surveys show 93% satisfaction, with cleanliness and reliability rated highly, and 95% of users recommending the service. Promotional campaigns targeting commuters and seasonal visitors supported growth, alongside expanded peak services. The Park and Ride is central to York’s clean air zone, helping cut emissions and congestion while setting national standards for sustainable, high-quality urban transport.
First Bus North & West Yorkshire
Record-breaking York Park and Ride
York’s Park and Ride, run by First Bus North & West Yorkshire with City of York Council, is the UK’s largest all-electric network. Its six sites provide over 5,000 parking spaces, serviced by 33 electric buses. In 2024, the network recorded 4.5m passengers—its busiest year since 2017 and almost 1m more than 2023. December 2024 alone saw nearly 500,000 passengers, the highest monthly figure in a decade, equating to 61,700 fewer cars entering the city. November also set a record with 10% growth on previous years. Customer surveys show 93% satisfaction, with cleanliness and reliability rated highly, and 95% of users recommending the service. Promotional campaigns targeting commuters and seasonal visitors supported growth, alongside expanded peak services. The Park and Ride is central to York’s clean air zone, helping cut emissions and congestion while setting national standards for sustainable, high-quality urban transport.
First Bus North & West Yorkshire
Record-breaking York Park and Ride
York’s Park and Ride, run by First Bus North & West Yorkshire with City of York Council, is the UK’s largest all-electric network. Its six sites provide over 5,000 parking spaces, serviced by 33 electric buses. In 2024, the network recorded 4.5m passengers—its busiest year since 2017 and almost 1m more than 2023. December 2024 alone saw nearly 500,000 passengers, the highest monthly figure in a decade, equating to 61,700 fewer cars entering the city. November also set a record with 10% growth on previous years. Customer surveys show 93% satisfaction, with cleanliness and reliability rated highly, and 95% of users recommending the service. Promotional campaigns targeting commuters and seasonal visitors supported growth, alongside expanded peak services. The Park and Ride is central to York’s clean air zone, helping cut emissions and congestion while setting national standards for sustainable, high-quality urban transport.
Grant Palmer
Grant Palmer Ltd, Bedfordshire's family owned bus company
Grant Palmer Ltd, a family-owned operator since 1999, runs 40 vehicles from two depots across Bedfordshire, connecting Bedford, Luton, Milton Keynes and surrounding towns. With a workforce of 80, the company combines personal service with professional operations, underpinned by strong local ties. Innovation includes partnerships with major employers like Amazon and Center Parcs to provide tailored corporate transport, reducing congestion and supporting growth. Active participation in the £2 fare cap boosted ridership by up to 50% on some routes, with Service 68 doubling usage. In 2024, the company opened a new Biggleswade depot, creating 20 jobs and expanding its footprint. Patronage grew 130% on key routes, with new services in Luton and East Bedfordshire. Over £2.5m has been invested in fleet and telematics, alongside staff training, welfare facilities and career development. With agile operations and strong community focus, Grant Palmer exemplifies sustainable, independent bus provision.
Grant Palmer
Grant Palmer Ltd, Bedfordshire's family owned bus company
Grant Palmer Ltd, a family-owned operator since 1999, runs 40 vehicles from two depots across Bedfordshire, connecting Bedford, Luton, Milton Keynes and surrounding towns. With a workforce of 80, the company combines personal service with professional operations, underpinned by strong local ties. Innovation includes partnerships with major employers like Amazon and Center Parcs to provide tailored corporate transport, reducing congestion and supporting growth. Active participation in the £2 fare cap boosted ridership by up to 50% on some routes, with Service 68 doubling usage. In 2024, the company opened a new Biggleswade depot, creating 20 jobs and expanding its footprint. Patronage grew 130% on key routes, with new services in Luton and East Bedfordshire. Over £2.5m has been invested in fleet and telematics, alongside staff training, welfare facilities and career development. With agile operations and strong community focus, Grant Palmer exemplifies sustainable, independent bus provision.
Grant Palmer
Grant Palmer Ltd, Bedfordshire's family owned bus company
Grant Palmer Ltd, a family-owned operator since 1999, runs 40 vehicles from two depots across Bedfordshire, connecting Bedford, Luton, Milton Keynes and surrounding towns. With a workforce of 80, the company combines personal service with professional operations, underpinned by strong local ties. Innovation includes partnerships with major employers like Amazon and Center Parcs to provide tailored corporate transport, reducing congestion and supporting growth. Active participation in the £2 fare cap boosted ridership by up to 50% on some routes, with Service 68 doubling usage. In 2024, the company opened a new Biggleswade depot, creating 20 jobs and expanding its footprint. Patronage grew 130% on key routes, with new services in Luton and East Bedfordshire. Over £2.5m has been invested in fleet and telematics, alongside staff training, welfare facilities and career development. With agile operations and strong community focus, Grant Palmer exemplifies sustainable, independent bus provision.
Heathrow Airport Limited
Flightline
Flightline is Heathrow’s dedicated staff shuttle network, launched in 2023 to provide free, sustainable transport for airport colleagues. With 16 routes serving surrounding communities, it carries 5.5m passenger journeys annually, easing congestion and cutting reliance on private cars. Operated 24/7, Flightline connects directly to terminals and supports staff working irregular hours. The network uses a modern fleet with Euro VI and electric buses, reducing emissions and aligning with Heathrow’s sustainability targets. Integrated real-time information, contactless access, and accessibility features ensure convenience for all users. By reducing car dependency, Flightline saves an estimated 8,000 tonnes of CO2 annually and alleviates parking pressure at the airport. Feedback shows strong staff satisfaction, particularly valuing reliability and inclusivity. Flightline underpins Heathrow’s operations, enhancing staff wellbeing, supporting recruitment and retention, and strengthening community connections, while setting a strong example of how employers can provide sustainable transport solutions.
Heathrow Airport Limited
Flightline
Flightline is Heathrow’s dedicated staff shuttle network, launched in 2023 to provide free, sustainable transport for airport colleagues. With 16 routes serving surrounding communities, it carries 5.5m passenger journeys annually, easing congestion and cutting reliance on private cars. Operated 24/7, Flightline connects directly to terminals and supports staff working irregular hours. The network uses a modern fleet with Euro VI and electric buses, reducing emissions and aligning with Heathrow’s sustainability targets. Integrated real-time information, contactless access, and accessibility features ensure convenience for all users. By reducing car dependency, Flightline saves an estimated 8,000 tonnes of CO2 annually and alleviates parking pressure at the airport. Feedback shows strong staff satisfaction, particularly valuing reliability and inclusivity. Flightline underpins Heathrow’s operations, enhancing staff wellbeing, supporting recruitment and retention, and strengthening community connections, while setting a strong example of how employers can provide sustainable transport solutions.
Heathrow Airport Limited
Flightline
Flightline is Heathrow’s dedicated staff shuttle network, launched in 2023 to provide free, sustainable transport for airport colleagues. With 16 routes serving surrounding communities, it carries 5.5m passenger journeys annually, easing congestion and cutting reliance on private cars. Operated 24/7, Flightline connects directly to terminals and supports staff working irregular hours. The network uses a modern fleet with Euro VI and electric buses, reducing emissions and aligning with Heathrow’s sustainability targets. Integrated real-time information, contactless access, and accessibility features ensure convenience for all users. By reducing car dependency, Flightline saves an estimated 8,000 tonnes of CO2 annually and alleviates parking pressure at the airport. Feedback shows strong staff satisfaction, particularly valuing reliability and inclusivity. Flightline underpins Heathrow’s operations, enhancing staff wellbeing, supporting recruitment and retention, and strengthening community connections, while setting a strong example of how employers can provide sustainable transport solutions.
Lothian Buses
Lothian Country Service 43
Lothian Country’s Service 43 provides a vital, high-frequency connection between West Lothian and Edinburgh city centre. Running every 15 minutes during the day, it serves towns including West Calder, Mid Calder and Livingston, supporting both commuters and leisure users. Investment in modern Euro VI double-deckers with free Wi-Fi, USB charging, audio-visual next-stop announcements, and improved seating has significantly enhanced customer experience. Strong marketing and local engagement helped establish the service, which has seen year-on-year patronage growth despite wider challenges in the bus market. Service 43 plays a key role in reducing car dependency, supporting local economies and providing sustainable, accessible travel. Its reliable, high-quality operation demonstrates Lothian’s continued commitment to investing in communities outside Edinburgh, ensuring passengers across the region benefit from modern, attractive public transport while supporting regional growth and net-zero targets.
Lothian Buses
Lothian Country Service 43
Lothian Country’s Service 43 provides a vital, high-frequency connection between West Lothian and Edinburgh city centre. Running every 15 minutes during the day, it serves towns including West Calder, Mid Calder and Livingston, supporting both commuters and leisure users. Investment in modern Euro VI double-deckers with free Wi-Fi, USB charging, audio-visual next-stop announcements, and improved seating has significantly enhanced customer experience. Strong marketing and local engagement helped establish the service, which has seen year-on-year patronage growth despite wider challenges in the bus market. Service 43 plays a key role in reducing car dependency, supporting local economies and providing sustainable, accessible travel. Its reliable, high-quality operation demonstrates Lothian’s continued commitment to investing in communities outside Edinburgh, ensuring passengers across the region benefit from modern, attractive public transport while supporting regional growth and net-zero targets.
Lothian Buses
Lothian Country Service 43
Lothian Country’s Service 43 provides a vital, high-frequency connection between West Lothian and Edinburgh city centre. Running every 15 minutes during the day, it serves towns including West Calder, Mid Calder and Livingston, supporting both commuters and leisure users. Investment in modern Euro VI double-deckers with free Wi-Fi, USB charging, audio-visual next-stop announcements, and improved seating has significantly enhanced customer experience. Strong marketing and local engagement helped establish the service, which has seen year-on-year patronage growth despite wider challenges in the bus market. Service 43 plays a key role in reducing car dependency, supporting local economies and providing sustainable, accessible travel. Its reliable, high-quality operation demonstrates Lothian’s continued commitment to investing in communities outside Edinburgh, ensuring passengers across the region benefit from modern, attractive public transport while supporting regional growth and net-zero targets.
Stagecoach East Midlands
Pronto
The Pronto service connects Nottingham and Chesterfield with frequent, limited-stop buses, operating up to every 10 minutes. Jointly run by Stagecoach East Midlands and Trentbarton, it provides fast, reliable travel along the busy A60 corridor, serving Mansfield, Sutton-in-Ashfield and other key communities. A refreshed fleet of low-emission double-deckers with modern interiors, free Wi-Fi, USB charging and audio-visual announcements ensures passenger comfort and accessibility. Targeted marketing campaigns, including digital promotions and community engagement, have raised awareness and boosted ridership. Passenger numbers continue to grow, supported by service reliability and integration with local transport networks. The Pronto brand is recognised locally as a premium interurban bus service, offering a sustainable, affordable and convenient alternative to car travel. With strong investment and a focus on quality, Stagecoach has reinforced Pronto as a key regional link, easing congestion and supporting economic and environmental goals.
Stagecoach East Midlands
Pronto
The Pronto service connects Nottingham and Chesterfield with frequent, limited-stop buses, operating up to every 10 minutes. Jointly run by Stagecoach East Midlands and Trentbarton, it provides fast, reliable travel along the busy A60 corridor, serving Mansfield, Sutton-in-Ashfield and other key communities. A refreshed fleet of low-emission double-deckers with modern interiors, free Wi-Fi, USB charging and audio-visual announcements ensures passenger comfort and accessibility. Targeted marketing campaigns, including digital promotions and community engagement, have raised awareness and boosted ridership. Passenger numbers continue to grow, supported by service reliability and integration with local transport networks. The Pronto brand is recognised locally as a premium interurban bus service, offering a sustainable, affordable and convenient alternative to car travel. With strong investment and a focus on quality, Stagecoach has reinforced Pronto as a key regional link, easing congestion and supporting economic and environmental goals.
Stagecoach East Midlands
Pronto
The Pronto service connects Nottingham and Chesterfield with frequent, limited-stop buses, operating up to every 10 minutes. Jointly run by Stagecoach East Midlands and Trentbarton, it provides fast, reliable travel along the busy A60 corridor, serving Mansfield, Sutton-in-Ashfield and other key communities. A refreshed fleet of low-emission double-deckers with modern interiors, free Wi-Fi, USB charging and audio-visual announcements ensures passenger comfort and accessibility. Targeted marketing campaigns, including digital promotions and community engagement, have raised awareness and boosted ridership. Passenger numbers continue to grow, supported by service reliability and integration with local transport networks. The Pronto brand is recognised locally as a premium interurban bus service, offering a sustainable, affordable and convenient alternative to car travel. With strong investment and a focus on quality, Stagecoach has reinforced Pronto as a key regional link, easing congestion and supporting economic and environmental goals.
Stagecoach South Wales
Service X24
Service X24 links Blaenavon, Pontypool, Cwmbran and Newport, providing a direct, limited-stop connection between communities in Torfaen and Newport city centre. Running every 20 minutes on weekdays, the route serves commuters, students and leisure passengers. Recent investment introduced modern low-emission vehicles with accessibility features, Wi-Fi and USB charging, improving passenger experience and sustainability. A timetable enhancement in 2023 boosted reliability and delivered a 5% rise in annual patronage, with weekend and evening journeys showing the strongest growth. Marketing campaigns and improved information, including real-time tracking, helped raise awareness. With punctuality averaging 93%, X24 has become a trusted alternative to car travel, reducing congestion on the busy A4042 corridor. It plays a vital role in connecting communities with jobs, education and leisure, while contributing to modal shift and supporting Welsh Government ambitions for sustainable transport.
Stagecoach South Wales
Service X24
Service X24 links Blaenavon, Pontypool, Cwmbran and Newport, providing a direct, limited-stop connection between communities in Torfaen and Newport city centre. Running every 20 minutes on weekdays, the route serves commuters, students and leisure passengers. Recent investment introduced modern low-emission vehicles with accessibility features, Wi-Fi and USB charging, improving passenger experience and sustainability. A timetable enhancement in 2023 boosted reliability and delivered a 5% rise in annual patronage, with weekend and evening journeys showing the strongest growth. Marketing campaigns and improved information, including real-time tracking, helped raise awareness. With punctuality averaging 93%, X24 has become a trusted alternative to car travel, reducing congestion on the busy A4042 corridor. It plays a vital role in connecting communities with jobs, education and leisure, while contributing to modal shift and supporting Welsh Government ambitions for sustainable transport.
Stagecoach South Wales
Service X24
Service X24 links Blaenavon, Pontypool, Cwmbran and Newport, providing a direct, limited-stop connection between communities in Torfaen and Newport city centre. Running every 20 minutes on weekdays, the route serves commuters, students and leisure passengers. Recent investment introduced modern low-emission vehicles with accessibility features, Wi-Fi and USB charging, improving passenger experience and sustainability. A timetable enhancement in 2023 boosted reliability and delivered a 5% rise in annual patronage, with weekend and evening journeys showing the strongest growth. Marketing campaigns and improved information, including real-time tracking, helped raise awareness. With punctuality averaging 93%, X24 has become a trusted alternative to car travel, reducing congestion on the busy A4042 corridor. It plays a vital role in connecting communities with jobs, education and leisure, while contributing to modal shift and supporting Welsh Government ambitions for sustainable transport.
Transdev
THE 36, by THE HARROGATE BUS COMPANY
THE 36 is Transdev’s flagship interurban service linking Leeds, Harrogate and Ripon. Renowned for its luxury double-deck fleet, it offers leather seating, Wi-Fi, USB charging, personal tables, and premium design, redefining bus travel standards. Operating up to every 10 minutes between Leeds and Harrogate, and hourly to Ripon, it provides fast, reliable, high-quality journeys. Investment in customer experience is matched by strong marketing and community engagement, reinforcing the 36 brand as aspirational and distinctive. Passenger growth continues, with high satisfaction levels driven by comfort and reliability. The service reduces car dependency on the A61 corridor, supporting economic activity and environmental goals. THE 36 is celebrated as one of the UK’s best bus services, demonstrating how premium branding and customer experience can attract new users, retain loyalty, and deliver sustainable modal shift while setting industry-leading standards in public transport.
Transdev
THE 36, by THE HARROGATE BUS COMPANY
THE 36 is Transdev’s flagship interurban service linking Leeds, Harrogate and Ripon. Renowned for its luxury double-deck fleet, it offers leather seating, Wi-Fi, USB charging, personal tables, and premium design, redefining bus travel standards. Operating up to every 10 minutes between Leeds and Harrogate, and hourly to Ripon, it provides fast, reliable, high-quality journeys. Investment in customer experience is matched by strong marketing and community engagement, reinforcing the 36 brand as aspirational and distinctive. Passenger growth continues, with high satisfaction levels driven by comfort and reliability. The service reduces car dependency on the A61 corridor, supporting economic activity and environmental goals. THE 36 is celebrated as one of the UK’s best bus services, demonstrating how premium branding and customer experience can attract new users, retain loyalty, and deliver sustainable modal shift while setting industry-leading standards in public transport.
Transdev
THE 36, by THE HARROGATE BUS COMPANY
THE 36 is Transdev’s flagship interurban service linking Leeds, Harrogate and Ripon. Renowned for its luxury double-deck fleet, it offers leather seating, Wi-Fi, USB charging, personal tables, and premium design, redefining bus travel standards. Operating up to every 10 minutes between Leeds and Harrogate, and hourly to Ripon, it provides fast, reliable, high-quality journeys. Investment in customer experience is matched by strong marketing and community engagement, reinforcing the 36 brand as aspirational and distinctive. Passenger growth continues, with high satisfaction levels driven by comfort and reliability. The service reduces car dependency on the A61 corridor, supporting economic activity and environmental goals. THE 36 is celebrated as one of the UK’s best bus services, demonstrating how premium branding and customer experience can attract new users, retain loyalty, and deliver sustainable modal shift while setting industry-leading standards in public transport.
Transport for Greater Manchester
472/474 route: Bury - Walmersley - Ramsbottom - Holcombe Brook circular
TfGM’s 472/474 circular routes provide vital connectivity across Bury, Walmersley, Ramsbottom and Holcombe Brook. Operating up to every 15 minutes, the service supports commuting, education and leisure, linking residential areas with Bury town centre and Metrolink. Delivered in partnership with Diamond Bus North West, the routes were enhanced under the Bee Network with upgraded Euro VI buses, improved reliability, real-time information, and contactless ticketing. Patronage has grown strongly since Bee Network integration, supported by marketing campaigns and community engagement. The service has been key in supporting economic recovery and improving access to jobs, retail and education. With its consistent performance and role in reducing car use, the 472/474 has become a model of integrated, sustainable suburban bus provision. It showcases TfGM’s commitment to creating a reliable, accessible network at the heart of Greater Manchester’s transformation into a cleaner, fairer transport system .
Transport for Greater Manchester
472/474 route: Bury - Walmersley - Ramsbottom - Holcombe Brook circular
TfGM’s 472/474 circular routes provide vital connectivity across Bury, Walmersley, Ramsbottom and Holcombe Brook. Operating up to every 15 minutes, the service supports commuting, education and leisure, linking residential areas with Bury town centre and Metrolink. Delivered in partnership with Diamond Bus North West, the routes were enhanced under the Bee Network with upgraded Euro VI buses, improved reliability, real-time information, and contactless ticketing. Patronage has grown strongly since Bee Network integration, supported by marketing campaigns and community engagement. The service has been key in supporting economic recovery and improving access to jobs, retail and education. With its consistent performance and role in reducing car use, the 472/474 has become a model of integrated, sustainable suburban bus provision. It showcases TfGM’s commitment to creating a reliable, accessible network at the heart of Greater Manchester’s transformation into a cleaner, fairer transport system .
Transport for Greater Manchester
472/474 route: Bury - Walmersley - Ramsbottom - Holcombe Brook circular
TfGM’s 472/474 circular routes provide vital connectivity across Bury, Walmersley, Ramsbottom and Holcombe Brook. Operating up to every 15 minutes, the service supports commuting, education and leisure, linking residential areas with Bury town centre and Metrolink. Delivered in partnership with Diamond Bus North West, the routes were enhanced under the Bee Network with upgraded Euro VI buses, improved reliability, real-time information, and contactless ticketing. Patronage has grown strongly since Bee Network integration, supported by marketing campaigns and community engagement. The service has been key in supporting economic recovery and improving access to jobs, retail and education. With its consistent performance and role in reducing car use, the 472/474 has become a model of integrated, sustainable suburban bus provision. It showcases TfGM’s commitment to creating a reliable, accessible network at the heart of Greater Manchester’s transformation into a cleaner, fairer transport system .
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