Scenic Britain by Bus by Simon Holt

SCENIC BRITAIN

by bus

Your guide to travelling around the country by bus

ow in its 21st year of publication, Scenic Britain by Bus is an invaluable source of information and inspiration for getting off the beaten track by bus. It is published annually and distributed throughout the UK. It provides information in an easy to understand format about many of the bus services within Britain, from Cornwall to Aberdeen; from Kent to Anglesey. This booklet is packed full of photographs and information about what there is to see and do in each area. There are also details of how to get further information, whilst the FREEPOST form at the back of the booklet makes getting that information an easy process.

N Ref 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

Area Page No ARGYLL & BUTE ............................................32 BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET .................13 BORDERS.......................................................30 BRECON BEACONS NATIONAL PARK............25 BRIGHTON & HOVE ..........................................7 CHESHIRE / STAFFORDSHIRE.......................35 CHILTERNS AONB..........................................28 CLWYDIAN RANGE AONB ..............................28 CONWY ...........................................................18 CORNWALL .......................................................8 CORNWALL AONB..........................................28 COTSWOLDS AONB .......................................25 COVENTRY .....................................................35 DALES BUS....................................................20 DARTMOOR NATIONAL PARK........................24 DORSET ..........................................................10 DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY ..............................30 EAST DEVON AONB .......................................26 EDINBURGH ....................................................31 FIFE................................................................34 GWYNEDD & SNOWDONIA .............................17 HAMPSHIRE......................................................8 HERTFORDSHIRE ..............................................9

Ref 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46

Area Page No ISLE OF ANGLESEY ........................................16 KENT .................................................................6 LANCASHIRE .................................................22 LINCOLNSHIRE ..............................................23 MALVERN HILLS AONB .................................26 NIDDERDALE AONB.......................................24 NORTH EAST SCOTLAND...............................29 NORTH PENNINES AONB...............................27 NORTH SOMERSET.........................................13 NORTH WALES ROVER TICKET ......................19 NORTH YORK MOORS NATIONAL PARK........26 NORTHAMPTONSHIRE...................................20 PEMBROKESHIRE...........................................14 SHROPSHIRE HILLS AONB............................28 SOMERSET .....................................................12 SOUTH DOWNS (NEW) NATIONAL PARK ......25 STIRLING .......................................................33 SWANSEA BAY, MUMBLES & GOWER ...........15 WAYFARER TICKET (GMPTE) .........................21 WILTSHIRE.......................................................11 WINDSOR & MAIDENHEAD ..............................6 WYE VALLEY AONB .......................................27 YORKSHIRE DALES NATIONAL PARK ...........25

Visiting the National Parks and AONBs by Bus Some of our best scenery is to be found in Britain’s National Parks and AONBs (Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty) and the good news is that most are served by an excellent network of bus services. Whilst some of these services are seasonal, others run all year round. You’ll find a separate section on a number of these areas on pages 24 to 28. So, tick the relevant boxes on the FREEPOST form at the back of this booklet and start planning your car-free trip straightaway.

Loch Einich, Cairngorms National Park (See North East Scotland - page 29)

Photo: Chris J Petty

www.scenicbritainbybus.com Every care has been taken in ensuring the accuracy of the details given in this publication. However the publishers and participating organisations cannot be held responsible for any loss or inconvenience arising from errors or omissions.

SCENIC BRITAIN

by bus

20 19

Service 300 (See Somerset - page 12)

Photo: Somerset County Council

Editor takes a tripâ&#x20AC;Ś Your editor gets out and about over the course of the year, see next page for an example of what's possible then perhaps start planning your own trip! 17 31 Further information To make it easier to receive this information, 34 there is a tear out form at the back of this booklet. Just circle the numbers of the areas 46 29 you wish to visit and we will forward your 14 26 enquiries to the organisations concerned. traveline 42 27 Traveline provides impartial 24 9 8 public transport timetable 33 6 information. You can phone 21 Traveline from anywhere in Britain on 0871 200 22 33 at 37 National call-rate charges. 13 35 The service is generally 28 available between 8am and 4 12 23 36 41 7 45 8pm every day (except 25, 26 December and 1 January). For reasons www.traveline.info 44 32 2 43 25 of clarity, location 22 Please mention numbers are 38 39 Scenic Britain by Bus shown in the 5 16 18 when contacting any of the centres of their 15 organisations that appear in respective 10 this booklet. areas

Front cover: Llanberis Pass, see Gwynedd on page 17 (Photo: TM)

Scenic Britain by Bus is compiled and published by Transport Marketing and Simon Holt Marketing Services with the support of participating councils and other organisations as depicted in this booklet. ÂŠ TM and SHMS. May 2009

EDITOR TAKES A TRIP... It could be a day out to somewhere nearby; a longer day excursion or a whole week away; like the one described below. Whichever it is, you'll certainly enjoy the freedom of travelling by bus and with the help of the organisations featured within and the Response Form at the back of the booklet, you'll be able to obtain all the information you need to help you plan your trip. North Wales has everything. Apart from its magnificent mountain landscapes, estuaries, rivers, lakes, woodland, beaches and bird reserves, there are also the man-made delights of narrow gauge railways, walled towns, castles, old mines and industrial archeology, to name just a few. On this trip, though, I'm concentrating on seeing four

castles which are World Heritage Sites and some interesting industrial archeology along with some relatively easy walking in between. The bus network makes exploring North Wales an easy process. Indeed the network has held up well over the years and some areas such as Snowdonia are actually better served than ever. The route described would be of interest to low level walkers who do not wish to climb the highest peaks or those who just wish to sightsee. The bus network also lends itself well to ramblers and climbers; especially in the areas around Snowdon or Cadair Idris, for instance, where it offers a chance to climb the mountains by one route and return by another.

A WEEK IN NORTH WALES My starting point is Wrexham - one of the most Welsh of Welsh towns, even though it's only a stone's throw from England. It has a good coach service from London, Birmingham (connections from all parts), the North West and North East of England. It is also well served by train. Wrexham is definitely worth exploring with it's industrial history; nearby Erdigg House and the Ceiriog Valley.

The Welsh Highland Railway near Rhyd Ddu

Erdigg House

Photo: TM

Arriving at Caernarfon, there's another magnificent castle, completely dominating the town. Caernarfon's a good place to spend the night. Today, I'm heading for Anglesey via Bangor, an interesting University town and excellent transport hub. I'm revisiting Amlwch on the north coast; something about the harbour from a trip some 40-odd years before had stuck in my mind...and sure enough it's an amazing place sunken as it is between rocks. Not too far away is Parys Mountain, an abandoned quarry which you can freely walk around and marvel at the mineral deposits of every conceivable colour.

Photo: TM

On this trip, however, we'll head off on the X94 Barmouth bus passing the unique Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. In fact, there are enough buses a day on this route to break your journey at one or more of the intermediate towns of Llangollen, Corwen, Bala and Dolgellau and still arrive in Barmouth with time to enjoy its mountain and seaside setting. Take an evening stroll, perhaps, across Barmouth Bridge to gaze on one of the finest estuaries in Britain. Next day, I'm heading north along the narrow coastal plain sandwiched between dune and mountain to Harlech with its imposing castle - a World Heritage Site and then on to Porthmadog. I'll soon have a choice: Do I travel by bus to Caernarfon or use the 'new' narrow gauge Welsh Highland Railway, due to be completed this year? Whichever way I go, I'll be enjoying the grand scenery alongside the southern slopes of Snowdon.

Parys Mountain

Photo: TM

Betws-y-Coed

Moel Famau Country Park

Photo: TM

Loggerheads Country Park

Photo: TM

I've timed my arrival in Rhyl so that I can take a trip on a Clwydian Ranger bus (runs Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays) along the beautiful Vale of Clwyd and up over the Clwydian Range to Loggerheads Country Park. I'll be back to this Park later in the day but I stay on the bus for now to alight at Moel Famau Viewpoint. That's good - on the back of the timetable is a selection of walks. One of them will guide me up over Moel Famau and down through superb woodland back to Loggerheads Country Park where there's time for refreshments before catching the bus on to Wrexham via Mold. Pat Neal, Scenic Britain by Bus

I could visit one of the many sandy beaches on this surprisingly large island but today I seek out Beaumaris Castle to continue with my castle theme. Back to the mainland, I'll stay tonight in Bangor ready for an early start as I've even more to pack in to the next day. Bright and early, I'm travelling just a few miles to Bethesda, an old slate mining town right on the edge of Snowdonia National Park. Here is one of several Slate Valleys Paths dotted about Gwynedd; described in a booklet obtainable from Tourist Information Centres. Rejoining the bus route, I continue up Nant Francon through absolutely magnificent scenery (sit on the right of the bus in this direction) and on through mountain passes to the wooded delights of Betws-y-Coed. If you like fast flowing rivers, waterfalls and precipitous tree covered slopes this is a place for you. There are plenty of places to stay too but book ahead at busy times. As with all the places we've visited, you'll want to linger but we are heading north again now, this time to Conwy and the fourth of our World Heritage Castles. Don't miss the chance also to walk round the town walls. Time precludes a visit to Llandudno and the Great Orme on this trip so I go directly to the seaside town of Colwyn Bay; changing there for Rhyl.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST? For the above trip, I would buy the following tickets. Prices are given as a guide and can change at short notice. (Please check with Traveline j 0871 200 22 33 for the latest information.) Day 1 Wrexham-Barmouth with unlimited breaks of journey. Arriva Day Saver £5.50 Day 2 Barmouth-Porthmadog-Caernarfon. Red Rover £4.95 Day 3 Caernarfon-Anglesey-Bangor. Red Rover £4.95 Day 4 Bangor-Bethesda-Betws-y-Coed. Red Rover £4.95 Day 5 Betws-y-Coed-Conwy-Colwyn Bay-Rhyl. Arriva Day Saver £5.50 Day 6 Rhyl-Moel Famau-Loggerheads-Mold-Wrexham. Clwydian Ranger Ticket £4.00 Total for 6 days: £29.85 Allow about £25-£30 per night per person for Bed & Breakfast

Photo: TM

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25 KENT The Garden of England

BUS TIMETABLE INFORMATION, JOURNEY PLANNING & FARES INFORMATION Traveline j0871 200 22 33 (calls from landlines cost 10p per minute) www.traveline.info Stagecoach in East Kent j08456 00 22 99 www.stagecoachbus.com Arriva j0844 8004411 www.arriva.co.uk Kent County Council Transport Integration j01622 605095 www.kent.gov.uk/publictransport

Whitstable

rom breathtaking countryside and historic towns to modern shopping centres and bustling nightlife, Kent has something for everyone. Whether you want to explore castles and stately homes, visit traditional seaside resorts or just take in Kent’s stunning rural landscape, travelling by bus is a great way to get out and about for the day.

TOURISM ENQUIRIES Kent Tourism Alliance j01271 336020 www.kenttourism.co.uk

44 WINDSOR and MAIDENHEAD he Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead boasts some of the most famous visitor attractions in the United Kingdom giving it the distinction of being one of Britain’s “must do” destinations. Windsor Castle is the largest inhabited castle in the world and the oldest royal residence to have remained in continuous use by the monarchs of Britain. The Castle’s imposing towers and battlements loom large from every approach to the town, creating one of the world’s most spectacular skylines.

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No other royal residence has played such an important part in the nation’s history and the influences of the monarchy can be seen throughout the area. Today Windsor is a stylish mix of ancient and modern offering, specialist and contemporary retailing, excellent eating places and all types of accommodation. The area boasts more than 20 visitor attractions including Windsor Castle, Eton College and Legoland. A French Brothers boat trip, a visit to the Savill Garden, a City Sightseeing Bus Tour or a horse drawn carriage ride are essential ways to discover more of the area’s hidden treasures. With over 1,000 years of history, heritage, arts and culture and unique royal connections the towns of Windsor & Eton are a year round visitor destination that will leave you with the memories of a lifetime.

TOURIST INFORMATION

Windsor Castle and Windsor Wheel

Visitor Information Centre, Old Booking Hall, Windsor Royal Shopping, Thames Street, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1PJ j 01753 743900 Email: windsor.tic@rbwm.gov.uk Web: www.windsor.gov.uk

Photo: Michael Kiely

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& HOVE 5 BRIGHTON Regency Splendour he seaside city of Brighton & Hove is a unique, vibrant south-coast destination with 7 miles of seafront, a marina, a Regency palace, superb shopping, the unique Volks electric railway and a fine pier. It’s well-known for its elegant architecture, with grand seafront Regency crescents, squares and promenades. The shopping is second to none particularly in the old 17th century fishermen’s quarter with its brick paved passages around the Lanes. The city nestles on the edge of the beautiful Sussex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which is easily accessible by a choice of buses from Brighton. For example, you can ‘Breeze up to the Downs’ at Devil’s Dyke, Ditchling Beacon or Stanmer Park any weekend in summer - or Sundays and public holidays in winter. The views from Devil’s Dyke and Ditchling Beacon are breathtaking. In high summer, you can breeze up to Devil's Dyke 7 days a week, on an open-topper! But many other downland destinations lie on the frequent daily bus routes which radiate from the city centre. If you like walking, you’ll find our ‘Take the Bus for a Walk’ leaflets an inspiration. Otherwise why not take the bus for a sightseeing trip along the coast to Eastbourne or inland to Lewes or Tunbridge Wells. You can buy a SuperSaver ticket on the bus, costing around £5 for one day’s unlimited travel on Brighton & Hove Bus Company’s services. Save even more by buying your Daily or Weekly Saver in advance at any post office in and around the city or from www.buses.co.uk. The Explorer ticket covers a wider area and is issued and accepted by all bus companies listed here (prices vary).

DETAILS OF TIMES AND FARES Brighton & Hove City Council j 01273 292480 email: local.transport@brighton-hove.gov.uk Principal Operators: Brighton & Hove j 01273 886200 website: www.buses.co.uk Compass Travel j 01903 690025 Countryliner j 0844 4771623 Metrobus j 01293 449191 Stagecoach j 0845 121 0170 Traveline j 0871 200 22 33 (calls from landlines cost 10p per minute) website: www.traveline.info

TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION j 0906 711 2255 (calls cost 50p per minute: standard rate) website: www.visitbrighton.com

Regency Hove

Brighton’s historic seafront viewed from the Palace Pier

Photo: TM

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22 HAMPSHIRE Discover its unspoilt charms ampshire is a beautiful place to visit with so much to offer including glorious countryside, a superb coastline and vibrant towns. There are many places to visit and things to do which will suit all ages and interests. Children will love the animals at Marwell Zoo and rides at Paultons Park, as well as the many farms and adventure parks Hampshire has to offer. If it’s culture you are after, then we have

museums, stately homes, castles and beautiful gardens to explore. The New Forest National Park, famous for its ponies and wide open heathland, will once again benefit from the running of the New Forest Tour. The bus route takes in towns, villages, campsites and visitor attractions throughout the New Forest, enabling visitors to enjoy the forest to the full. The service will operate hourly, 7 days a week from 20 June until 13 Sept 2009. To find out more visit www.thenewforesttour.info The recently announced South Downs National Park includes much of East Hampshire. This area of outstanding beauty includes a range of useful services to many other areas of interest. These are just some of the many places to visit and explore using Hampshire’s comprehensive network of bus routes. Travel information can be obtained from libraries, information centres, bus and rail stations in Hampshire.

TRAVEL GUIDES AND MAPS

New Forest ponies

For Travel Guides and Maps j 0845 603 5633 website: www.hants.gov.uk/passengertransport email: ptgenquiries@hants.gov.uk

Photo: ImageExtra

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10 CORNWALL The magic of Cornwall

Nearly 30% of Cornwall is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). See page 28 for more details.

ew parts of Europe have a more dramatic coastline than Cornwall, most of which can be walked along. The popular Cornish section of the South West Coast Path, which is well served by buses from such points as Bude, Tintagel, Port Isaac, Padstow and Newquay, or from Mount Edgcumbe, Looe and Falmouth to Land's End itself. But even if you are just sightseeing, or wanting to enjoy Cornwall's marvellous beaches, this is the best way of discovering the real Cornwall, free from traffic and parking problems. For scenic splendour, few routes can compare with the open-top service which runs daily in the summer from Penzance to St Ives, then on to Land’s End via Zennor and St Just with its magnificent views of the cliffs and the countryside. The return from Land’s End to Penzance completes a fine circular trip.

TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION Cornwall Tourist Board: www.visitcornwall.com Penzance: Station Road, TR18 2NF j 01736 362207 www.visit-westcornwall.com Falmouth: 11 Market Strand, Prince of Wales Pier, TR11 3PN j 01326 312300 www.acornishriver.co.uk Bodmin: Shire House, Mount Folly Square, PL31 2DQ j 01208 76616 www.bodminlive.com

TIMETABLE INFORMATION To be sent a timetable contact: Passenger Transport Unit, Cornwall Council, Fal Building, County Hall, Truro, TR1 3AY. www.cornwall.gov.uk email: ptu@cornwall.gov.uk For bus information: Traveline j 0871 200 22 33 or www.traveline.info

Near Land’s End

Photo: Andy Hamer

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23 HERTFORDSHIRE

A widespread network of services runs throughout the county, on the majority of which you can buy the Intalink Explorer ticket which offers a day’s unlimited bus travel for a group of up to 4 people for only £12 (£3.50 and £7 Explorer tickets are available for one person). Visit: www.intalink.org.uk e-mail: feedback.ptu@hertscc.gov.uk or call j01992 556765 for more information. For passenger transport information in Hertfordshire and throughout the UK, contact traveline on j 0871 200 22 33 between 0700 and 2200 daily (calls from BT landlines cost 10p per minute, mobile and other providers’ charges may vary).

TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION

Chilterns Rambler 327 service

Bishop’s Stortford: 2 The Causeway, CM22 2EJ j 01279 655831 Hertford: 10 Market Place, SG14 1DG j 01992 584322 Hitchin: Library, Paynes Park, SG5 1EW j 01438 737333 St Albans: Town Hall, Market Place, AL3 5DJ j 01727 864511 Stevenage: Central Library, Southgate, SG1 1HD j 01438 737333

Photo: Andy Hamer

ess than fifteen miles from the centre of London at its closest point, it is surprising to many just how rural Hertfordshire is. Rolling chalk hills, sometimes open downland, other times beech-clad, run right across the county. The Icknield Way, at 4,000 years old is Britain’s oldest road and now a long-distance footpath, follows the line of these hills, offering many opportunities for a day’s walking. Along these hills you will find delightful locations such as the National Trust’s 4,000-acre Ashridge Estate with its miles of woodland footpaths. Beneath the downs are interesting towns and villages such as Berkhamsted, Tring, Aldbury and Hemel Hempstead. On Summer Sundays and Public Holidays these are linked by the Chilterns Rambler 327 bus service. Further east in more gentle countryside, lies the city of St Albans. The magnificent brick-built cathedral has the longest nave in Europe whilst nearby are the Roman remains of Verulamium. A little to the south at Chiswell Green are the Gardens of the Rose with over 30,000 flowers. A few miles away, Hatfield and Knebworth both have outstanding country houses. In the east of the county are historic Bishop’s Stortford, Hertford, with a castle and gardens as its focal point, and Ware with its 18th Century gazebos and fascinating grotto. In the south-east, the Lea Valley is an important recreational area with opportunities for boating and walking. Services 310 and 311 run parallel with the Lea Valley Walk and will get you home again without retracing your steps. The daily Green Line 724 service provides cross-county links between Ware, Hertford, Welwyn Garden City, Hatfield, St Albans and Watford with Harlow and Heathrow Airport.

SUGGESTED TRIPS Hertfordshire’s Passenger Transport Network Map demonstrates a range of journey possibilities and interesting days out. To obtain your free copy, fill out your details and return the coupon at the back of this booklet.

Visiting Hertfordshire?

A day’s unlimited travel on the Intalink bus network for groups of up to 4 people for just £12 www.intalink.org.uk/explorer

16 DORSET Spacious Downs and Spectacular Heritage Coast

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Timetable information, a county bus and rail map and two detailed Heritage Coast maps are available from the council (details below) and Tourist Information Centres. Information is also available on the internet at www.dorsetforyou.com/bustimes

TRAVEL INFORMATION

Weymouth Seafront

Photo: Dorset County Council

ome of the best views of the Dorset coast can be seen between Weymouth and Lyme Regis from the upper deck of First service X53 which operates all year round including Sundays. The service runs from Exeter to Poole and travels through Bridport, Weymouth and Wareham on its route through Dorset. Other buses serve intermediate points along the coast from inland destinations. Why not explore the beaches, search for fossils or just walk along the cliffs admiring the rock formations on this unique stretch of coast? Although the coast is an important feature of the county, there are numerous attractions inland. Dorset has small picturesque villages hidden down narrow lanes as well as larger market towns. Dorchester, Wimborne, Blandford and Shaftesbury are all well worth visiting, each having its own distinctive style and attractions. Take a bus to a smaller village, explore for an hour or two, perhaps have a pub lunch and then catch the bus back on its return journey. Views from the buses take in the landscapes immortalised by Thomas Hardy in his novels, from the heathlands of East Dorset and Purbeck to the sweeping hills in West Dorset. Several long distance walking routes cross the county and there is a network of well marked footpaths and bridleways giving opportunities for walkers to catch a bus to their starting point and then walk back to their original location. Dorset County Council has developed a series of services that run in some of the rural areas in the county. They operate as door to dorset services and some journeys need to be booked in advance. For more information telephone 0845 602 4547. door to dorset

Dorset Passenger Transport, Dorset County Council, County Hall, Dorchester, DT1 1XJ. j 01305 225165 or email: dorsetpassengertransport@dorsetcc.gov.uk (for printed timetables and maps) Traveline j 0871 200 22 33 or www.travelinesw.com (for journey planning).

TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION Initial enquiries to Dorset Tourism, Dorset County Council, address as above. j 01305 221001 Fax: 01305 225190 email: tourism@dorsetcc.gov.uk website: www.dorsetforyou.com/tourism

SUGGESTED TRIPS Weymouth - Bridport - Lyme Regis - Dorchester Weymouth (Mon-Sat; allow 1 day). Wimborne - Blandford - Shaftesbury and return (Mon-Sat; allow 1 day). Bridport - Yeovil - Dorchester - Bridport (Mon-Sat; allow 1 day).

Photo: Dorset County Council

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43 WILTSHIRE

xcept from the air, there can be no better way to appreciate the beauty of the rural landscape of Wiltshire, than from the seat of a bus. There are a few large urban areas in Wiltshire and buses linking them to smaller towns and villages run through a variety of rolling countryside offering panoramic views. The historic village of Lacock (the setting for many period films) is easily reached by bus on weekdays, as is Castle Combe - claimed by some to be the prettiest village in England. For walkers and cyclists, the Kennet & Avon Canal is crossed by numerous bus services as it winds its way through the County and on some of the more isolated stretches you can even ring for the Connect2Wiltshire demand responsive transport service to come and pick you up when you get tired. Alternatively why not spend a leisurely day exploring the bustling shopping centres of Swindon or Salisbury; discover the ancient past at Avebury or Cherhill White Horse Photo: Andy Luckhurst for Wiltshire Council Stonehenge; visit the elegant tea rooms of Marlborough or Bradford on Avon, or enjoy the superb TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION countryside views from Lacock Hill, Westbury White Horse Here are just a few TICs servicing Wiltshire: or the Marlborough Downs.

Chippenham: Yelde Hall, Market Place SN15 3HL j 01249 665970 email: tourism@chippenham.gov.uk Kennet Tourism: Cromwell House, Market Place, Devizes SN10 1JG j 01380 734669 email: all.tic’s@kennet.gov.uk Salisbury: Fish Row SP1 1EJ j 01722 334956 email: visitorinfo@salisbury.gov.uk Swindon: 37 Regent Street SN1 1JL j 01793 530328 email: infocentre@swindon.gov.uk Trowbridge: St Stephen’s Place (adjoining the Park) BA14 8AH j 01225 710535 email: tic@trowbridge.gov.uk

We suggest that you PLAN YOUR DAY... with the Wiltshire Public Transport Map and Guide, which shows all of the bus routes running throughout the County and lists their days of operation, frequency and which timetable leaflet to use to find further details. Copies of the map and timetable leaflets for all Wiltshire bus services are available from local libraries and Tourist Information Centres.

KEEPING THE COST DOWN The maximum cost of a day out by bus in Wiltshire is the price of a Wiltshire Day Rover Ticket which is valid on all main services throughout the County from the first bus in the morning until the last bus at night. It is also valid for travel into the Counties of Bath, Cirencester, Dorset, Hampshire and Oxford on certain buses. Current prices are: £6.50 adult. £4.50 child (under 16) and senior citizens. £13.00 for a family ticket (up to 2 adults and 2 children). First Bus, Stagecoach and Wilts & Dorset bus operators also offer their own day out tickets which are valid on their services in Wiltshire and beyond. Availability and prices may change after this publication has been printed.

www.visitwiltshire.co.uk

TRAVEL INFORMATION Traveline j 0871 200 22 33 (07.00 - 22.00, 364 days of the year) www.traveline.info email: buses@wiltshire.gov.uk Connect2Wiltshire j 08456 525255 (booking number) operating around Devizes, Pewsey Vale, Calne, Avebury and Mere. National Rail Enquiries j 08457 48 49 50. Information correct at time of going to press

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HISTORIC

38 Somerset County of Contrasts

town, or Wells, Minehead, Yeovil, Frome or Bridgwater. Somerset boasts an extensive network of local buses, which operate 7 days a week, all year round (excluding Christmas and Boxing Day). So whether you are a local resident or a visitor, take time to explore Somerset by bus. Relax, enjoy the views and let someone else do the driving.

BUS TIMES AND FARE INFORMATION

Service 300 near Countisbury

Photo: Somerset County Council

nown as the ‘County of Contrast’, Somerset has a wonderful variety of countryside, heritage and coastline, waiting for you to explore. The dramatic limestone Mendip Hills, which include the famous caves at Wookey and Cheddar, and not forgetting Cheddar Gorge, contrast with the open landscapes of the Somerset Levels and Moors. Local buses meet walking and cycling trails meandering through beautiful country villages. Discover the timeless charm of Exmoor National Park, with its open moorland, where you may just spot the famous Exmoor ponies and red deer and hidden cliffs and coves. Bring to life the mystical magic of King Arthur at Glastonbury Abbey, climb the famous Glastonbury Tor, and be rewarded with magnificent scenic views of the Somerset Levels and Moors. Explore the Gothic Wells Cathedral, and discover the historic charms of this beautiful city the smallest in England. There are few better ways to visit these historic landmarks than by public transport, so why not combine a trip on the bus with some shopping in Glastonbury Tor Photo: Somerset CC Taunton, the county

Somerset County Council produces 4 district area booklets detailing the timetables of all Public Bus Services. They also produce a Somerset Rail Guide, which details all train services operating through the county, along with information about West Somerset Railway. Contact: Transporting Somerset, Somerset County Council, County Hall, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 4DY j 0845 345 9155 Email: transport@somerset.gov.uk

TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION Somerset: Sedgemoor Services (M5 Southbound) j 01934 750833 Taunton: The Library, Paul Street, Taunton j 01823 336344 Minehead: Warren Road, Minehead j 01634 702624 Wells: Town Hall, Wells j 01749 672552 Glastonbury: The Tribunal, Glastonbury j 01458 832954 Cheddar: The Gorge, Cheddar j 01934 744071 Or visit the Somerset internet site for a wealth of regularly updated information at www.visitsomerset.co.uk

SUGGESTED TRIPS Glastonbury (Abbey, Tor, Rural Life Museum) Street (Clarks Shopping Village) - Glastonbury (Daily; allow 1 day). Taunton (shopping, Castle Museum) - Minehead (beach town, seafront) - Dunster (Medieval Village, Mill and Castle) (Daily; allow 1 day). Quantock Motor Services 400 Service, Minehead over Exmoor, (Sat/Sun, Public Holidays from Spring Bank Holiday to end of Sept 2009). Wells (Cathedral, Bishops Palace, Vicars Close) Wookey Hole - Wells (Daily; allow 1 day).

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SOMERSET 2

Bath & North East Somerset Natural Beauty and Georgian splendour

legant, timeless, mystical and historic - the City of Bath is surrounded by steep wooded hillsides and dissected by the Great Western Railway, River Avon and the Kennet and Avon Canal. Visit the Roman Baths and Pump Room, the Abbey, or the majestic Georgian Royal Crescent. The attractions are not limited to the city. A short bus ride on the 94 or 768 will take you through the beautiful unspoilt valleys and villages to perfect walking territory. A l t e r n a t i v e l y, explore North East Somerset's coal mining heritage by catching one of the frequent buses that run from Bath and visiting Radstock Mining Museum (open every afternoon except Mo nday).

North Somerset Happy holiday memories for all

he seaside resort of Weston-super-Mare, with its traditional family atmosphere, has been welcoming visitors for more than 200 years. It boasts two miles of golden sand, the Grand Pier (due to re-open in 2010), local museum, SeaQuarium and Helicopter Museum, as well as many beautiful parks and a year round programme of events. Away from Weston, and easily accessible by bus seven days a week, lie the coastal resorts of Clevedon and Portishead. Clevedon has one of the finest restored Victorian piers in the country, while superb views of the Severn Estuary, including the Severn Bridge, can be seen from the Lake Grounds at Portishead. Located nearby are the Portishead Open Air Pool (seasonal) and the Port Marine development. Further afield there are good bus connections to and from the cities of Bristol, Bath and Wells.

Great Bath & Abbey Photo: Bath Tourism Bureau

BUS TIMES AND FARE INFORMATION The Council and First Bus produce various maps, timetable booklets and leaflets covering the services available throughout the area. www.n-somerset.gov.uk www.firstgroup.com

TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION

BUS TIMES AND FARE INFORMATION The council produces a network map covering urban and rural services and produces timetable leaflets for supported bus services. First produce a timetable booklet that is sold through their outlets. Websites: www.bathnes.gov.uk www.firstgroup.com

Traveline j0871 200 22 33 www.traveline.info

Weston-super-Mare Tourist Information Centre: j 01934 888800 website: www.visitsomerset.co.uk email: westontouristinfo@n-somerset.gov.uk

SUGGESTED TRIPS Weston - Bristol - Weston (allow 1 day) Weston - Clevedon - Portishead - Weston (allow 1 day) Weston - Cheddar - Wells - Weston (allow 1 day) Weston - Bristol - Wells - Weston (allow 1 day)

TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION Bath Tourist Information Centre: j 0906 711 2000 www.visitbath.co.uk Accommodation information and booking line: j0844 847 5256

SUGGESTED TRIPS Bath - Radstock - Bath (allow 1/2 day) Bath - Westonbirt Arboretum - Bath (allow 1/2 day) Bath - Freshford - Westwood - Bath (allow 1 day) Bath - Wells - Bath (allow 1 day)

Clevedon Pier Photo: North Somerset Council

36 PEMBROKESHIRE and Britain's only truly coastal National Park embrokeshire is a beautiful and unique county offering some of the finest coastline and landscape in Europe, there’s no wonder it has long been a magnet for visitors. Home to Britain’s first truly coastal national park, it has something for everyone. Getting to the more popular countryside areas by bus is a breeze. It has a very good network of buses, with services running to every major town six days a week. Why not make the most of Pembrokeshire’s dedicated coastal ‘Puffin’ bus services to help you access walks, beaches, boat trips, local villages and attractions. These bus services run on recycled vegetable oil and provide access to the entire length of the 186 mile (299km) Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail, from St Dogmaels to Amroth.

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Visit www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk transport pages for up to date timetable information. Alternatively, visit one of Pembrokeshire Tourist Information Centres or contact Pembrokeshire Greenways for your coastal bus timetable booklet. They have also produced a transport map to assist with any travel planning. Copies are available at local Tourist Information Centres, or place a request by emailing greenways@pembrokeshire.gov.uk

Ramsey Island viewed from the Coast Path at St Davids Photos: Pembrokeshire County Council

SUGGESTED TRIPS Walking - hop on the Celtic Coaster from St Davids to St Justinian’s and walk back along the coast to Caerfai Bay (3-4 hours walking). Sightseeing - catch the Puffin shuttle to Martin’s Haven and take boat trip to Skomer Island. Beach - The Coastal Cruiser will take you to Broadhaven South, Freshwater East, or Stackpole Quay for Barafundle Bay.

New coastal buses run on recycled vegetable oil

VISITOR/TOURIST INFORMATION *St Davids National Park Visitor Centre The Grove, St Davids SA62 6NW j01437 720392 Newport National Park Visitor Centre 2 Bank Cottages, Long St, Newport SA42 0TN j01239 820912 *Haverfordwest TIC 19 Old Bridge, Haverfordwest, SA61 2EZ j01437 763110 *Fishguard Harbour TIC Ocean Lab, Goodwick, SA64 0DE j01348 872037 *Fishguard TIC Town Hall, Market Square, Fishguard, SA65 9HA j01437 776636 *Tenby TIC Unit 2, Upper Park Road, Tenby, SA70 2HL j01834 842402/04 Milford Haven TIC 94 Charles Street, Milford Haven, SA73 2HL j01646 690866 Pembrokeshire TIC Commons Road, Pembroke, SA71 4EA j01646 622388 Saundersfoot TIC The Barbecue, The Harbour, Saundersfoot SA69 9HE j01834 813672 * Open all year, remainder open between Easter and October.

TRAVEL INFORMATION & FARES For all public transport enquires contact Traveline Cymru j0871 200 22 33 www.traveline.org.uk Timetables are available from Pembrokeshire County Council j01437 764551 or click on to www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk and follow the transport links. For dedicated coastal bus information and travel maps visit www.pembrokeshiregreenways.co.uk or email: greenways@pembrokeshire.gov.uk If you’re planning more than one journey a day why not purchase a West Wales Rover ticket. These tickets are valid for all day travel (one day only) at a cost of £6.60 for adults and £4.40 for children. A child accompanying an adult holding a Rover ticket can travel for £3.30. All Wales Bus Pass holders travel free on Pembrokeshire’s buses simply show your pass to the driver.

SWANSEA BAY, MUMBLES and GOWER Explore Gower, the UK’s first AONB

wansea Bay is one of the UK’s premier coastal destinations. Explore the vibrant Waterfront City of Swansea, home to the National Waterfront Museum and the LC leisure complex, the Victorian seaside resort of Mumbles, and the spectacular Gower Peninsula, the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Gower lies to the west of the city and is served by the ‘Gower Explorer’ network of regular, daily bus services to Rhossili (where you can enjoy the popular view of Worm’s Head), Port Eynon, Oxwich, Horton and Llangennith. A useful link is also provided between North Gower (Llangennith / Llanmadoc) and South Gower (Horton/Port Eynon) with connections at Scurlage and Cilibion to and from Swansea. On Sundays, enjoy a ‘round trip’ of Gower, giving you the opportunity to discover and enjoy its award winning beaches, picturesque villages and unspoilt countryside.

Port Eynon

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Photo: © John Davies

SUGGESTED TRIPS 14/114 Daily Swansea – Pennard 116/119 Daily Swansea – Llanrhidian Network connections to Llangennith, Llanmadoc and South Gower 118 Daily Swansea – Rhossili Network connections to Oxwich, Horton, Port Eynon and North Gower 119 Sundays Swansea – Llangennith – Rhossili On Sundays most journeys operating from Swansea as Service 118 return as Service 119 and vice versa.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

VISITOR INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION

Gower Explorer timetables, maps, and ‘Walking by Bus’ leaflets can be obtained from The Transport Team, Environment Department, City and County of Swansea. j 01792 636466 u transportation.engineering@swansea.gov.uk swansea.gov.uk/transport

Swansea Tourist Information Centre Plymouth Street, Swansea SA1 3QG j 01792 468321 u tourism@swansea.gov.uk visitswanseabay.com Please quote reference SBB09.

Rhossili and Worm’s Head

Photo: © City & County of Swansea

OF ANGLESEY 24 ISLE The Island of Choice nglesey is an island that has everything. Safe clean A beaches, spectacular scenery, excellent sports facilities, including several stunning golf courses, a fascinating history, and an atmosphere all of its own. With 125 miles of stunning coastline, most of which is classed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it is no surprise that Anglesey has many excellent beaches which are a big draw for visitors throughout the year. The Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path covers the 125 miles of the island’s coastline. The entire path can be walked, with many convenient bus stops located along the various sections of the path. Towns and villages on Anglesey hide many secrets, places such as Beaumaris with its imposing castle built by Edward I. There are many other attractions such as Pili Palas Butterfly Farm in Menai Bridge, Oriel Môn, Llangefni, and the village with the longest name ‘Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwillllantysiliogogogoch’. As the largest town on Anglesey, Holyhead is steeped in history and has a cultural heritage to envy. As well as the many historic buildings in and around Holyhead, the town now boasts the newly constructed Celtic Gateway Bridge, linking the port of Holyhead to the town centre. Anglesey has an extensive network of bus services, the majority of which are operated by easy access low floor buses. The island can be reached by National Express services to Bangor, Eurolines services to Holyhead, and by rail to Bangor, Holyhead and other local stations on the island. There is also a direct air service from Cardiff to Anglesey Airport near Holyhead.

DETAILS OF TIMES For timetable enquiries call 0871 200 22 33 (between 0700 and 2100 daily) or visit www.anglesey.gov.uk/doc.asp?cat=1876 Isle of Anglesey County Council publish a comprehensive bus timetable which includes a network map, which is available free from Tourist Information Centres or direct from: Highways and Transportation Service, Isle of Anglesey County Council, Council Offices, Llangefni, Anglesey, LL77 7TW j 01248 752456. For more information about the Coastal Path visit www.angleseycoastalpath.com

TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION Holyhead: Holyhead Port Terminal 1, Holyhead, LL65 1DQ j 01407 762622 Fax 01407 761462 Llanfairpwllgwyngyll: Station Site, Llanfairpwll, LL61 5UJ j 01248 713177

SUGGESTED TRIPS Holyhead – Llanfairpwll – Beaumaris – Holyhead (Daily; allow a full day) Bangor – Llanfairpwll – Llangefni (Daily; allow 1/2 a day)

Beaumaris Castle

Anglesey Coastal Path

Photo: TM

Photo: IACC

GWYNEDD & SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK Scenic Mountains and Coast

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elax on the bus, and absorb the superb scenery, from the spectacular rugged peaks of the Snowdonia Mountains to the beauty of the coastline of the Llyn Peninsula, and the delightful coastal resorts of Tywyn, Aberdyfi, Barmouth, Harlech, Porthmadog, Criccieth and Pwllheli. The area’s rich historical past provides many interesting venues, such as Harlech, Criccieth or Caernarfon castles. You could also delve into the county’s industrial heritage by taking a trip on the narrow gauge railways, or visit slate museums associated with the slate industry at Llanberis and Blaenau Ffestiniog. If visiting the National Park, leave your car behind. Sherpa buses enable you to relax and enjoy the scenery of Snowdonia and the charm of its villages, before you take the challenge of its mountains.

All this can be achieved by means of Gwynedd’s extensive public transport network. Gwynedd Council produce a comprehensive information booklet of bus & train times, location maps and ticketing deals. A copy can be obtained by writing to: Public Transport Section, Environment Directorate, Gwynedd Council, Council Offices, Caernarfon, Gwynedd, LL55 1SH. j 01286 679535. For bus and train times phone Traveline on 0871 200 22 33. You can also contact the Council, or download bus and train timetables from the council website at: www.gwynedd.gov.uk/bwsgwynedd

Bus/rail tickets are available to make travelling easier

TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION

Red Rover Tickets are available for most bus services in Gwynedd and Anglesey, and services into Llandudno, Aberystwyth and Wrexham. Priced at £4.95, child £2.45, they provide unlimited travel for one day and can be presented at the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways for a £1 discount on all fares. Snowdon Sherpa Day Tickets, priced at £4, child £2, are also available for unlimited travel in the area bounded by Bethesda, Llanberis, Llanrwst, Porthmadog and Caernarfon.

DETAILS OF TIMES AND TICKETING DEALS

Bala: Pensarn Road, Bala LL23 7SR j/Fax 01678 521021 Bangor: Town Hall, Ffordd Deiniol, Bangor LL57 7RE j/Fax 01248 352786 Barmouth: Station Road, Barmouth LL42 1LU j/Fax 01341 280787 Caernarfon: Oriel Pendeitch, Castle Street, Caernarfon LL55 1ES j/Fax 01286 672232 Dolgellau: Eldon Square, Dolgellau LL40 1PU j/Fax 01341 422888 Llanberis: 41B High Street, Llanberis LL55 4EU j/Fax 01286 870765 Porthmadog: High Street, Porthmadog LL49 9LD j/Fax 01766 512981 Pwllheli: Min y Don, Sgwar yr Orsaf, Pwllheli LL53 5HG j/Fax 01758 613000 Tywyn*: High Street, Tywyn LL36 9AD j/Fax 01654 710070 * Seasonal opening only (March – October)

SUGGESTED TRIPS Contact one of the Tourist Information Centres for information on combining one of the following routes with a coastal or country walk... 17/18 Pwllheli – Aberdaron/ Abersoch. 8 Pwllheli – Nefyn – Tudweiliog. 38 Barmouth – Harlech – Maentwrog Beddgelert

28 Dolgellau - Tywyn - Aberdyfi - Machynlleth Aberystwyth.

Photo: TM

9 CONWY Breathtaking Scenery and Heritage he County of Conwy in North Wales is a unique destination for any traveller, with its breathtaking scenery, history and heritage. Whether you wish to visit the resorts of Llandudno, Colwyn Bay or Abergele on the coast, the medieval town of Conwy with its Castle, or walk in the hills and mountains of Snowdonia, the County caters for everything you need.

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DETAILS OF TIMES Timetables can also be obtained free of charge by writing to: The Public Transport Section, Conwy County Borough Council, The Heath, Penmaenmawr Road, Llanfairfechan, LL33 0PF (enclosing a 9" x 6" s.a.e. for reply).

TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION

Ty Mawr (National Trust) Wybrnant

Betws-y-Coed: Royal Oak Stables, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0AH j 01690 710426 Colwyn Bay: 40 Station Road, Colwyn Bay, LL29 8BU j 01492 530478 Llandudno: 1 Chapel Street, Llandudno, LL30 2ST j 01492 876413 Conwy: Castle Buildings, Conwy, LL32 8LD j 01492 592248

Photo: TM

The bus network offers an excellent regular service along the coast and down the Conwy Valley, with low floor buses operating on many routes. Why not use the bus to connect with the Conwy Valley Railway at Betws y Coed, Llanrwst, Llandudno Junction or Llandudno for a panoramic view of the area. Conwy produce bus timetables, twice annually, which are available on the buses and in many outlets throughout the county - including most libraries and tourist information centres.

Seventeenth century Llanrwst Bridge over the River Conwy

SUGGESTED TRIPS 5/9/19 Llandudno – Conwy (Daily – allow 1/2 day) 12 Llandudno – Colwyn Bay - Rhyl (Daily – allow 1 day) 25 Llandudno - Eglwysbach (Bodnant Garden) (Daily – allow 1/2 day) S2 Betws y Coed - Capel Curig – Pen y Pass (Daily – allow 1/2 day)

Photo: TM

WALES ROVER 33 NORTH Integrated Bus & Rail Tickets for North Wales he excellent value ticket for travel by bus and train across North Wales, which can be purchased for 2, 3, or all zones. The region is split into 8 zones which are mainly based on local authority boundaries.

Taking a break at Castell Dinas Bran Photo (above): Denbighshire CC

The 2 and 3 zone tickets can be bought from staffed railway stations, train conductors, and bus drivers (some bus companies can only issue 2 zone tickets at present). The all zone ticket can only be bought at stations or on trains.

Pen-y-Pas, Gwynedd Photo (right): TM

SOME HINTS TO HELP YOU USE BUSES IN BRITAIN

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In general, you do not need to book your bus trip in advance, just turn up at the stop (in certain country areas where there are no stops, buses will stop in any safe place if you hold out your hand whilst facing the bus!).

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Remember, there are lots of bargain fares. The best of these allow you to travel throughout a whole county or region or on an operator’s complete network. However, some of these tickets need to be purchased before you catch your first bus, often from bus stations, tourist information centres and post offices. Others can be bought on the first bus you board – please check each section to see what applies in that area.

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Check times carefuly; local bus enquiry offices will usually help you to plan your trip.

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Almost all buses in Britain are one-person operated and you either show your ticket or pay the driver when you get on. It will help you and other passengers if you have a good selection of coinage ready with which to pay your fare.

Children under 5 usually travel free if not occupying a seat; children under 16 generally travel at reduced rates. There are often bargain fares for families – please ask for details.

BUS 14 DALES Escape to the Yorkshire Dales with Dales Bus

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ales Bus is an integrated network of Sunday and Bank Holiday bus services to the Yorkshire Dales National Park and Nidderdale AONB. Buses operate from West Yorkshire into Upper Wharfedale, Malhamdale and Nidderdale and also meet train services at Ribblehead for Ingleton, Hawes and Swaledale. Dalesbus Ramblers guided walks take place every weekend from the bus network, whilst bargain rover tickets cut the cost of travel. On routes beginning with an “8” (800, 820 etc.) a new £5 student ticket is now available, and two children travel free with every fare paying adult. For full details of service times, fares and walks log onto www.dalesbus.org

Dalesbus ramblers at Kettlewell, boarding the 874 Photo: YDPTUG

TRAVEL INFORMATION

Hardraw Force

Traveline j 0871 200 22 33 www.traveline.org.uk or write to Dales & Bowland CIC, The Town Hall, Cheapside, Settle, North Yorkshire, BD24 9EJ.

Photo: YDPTUG

35 NORTHAMPTONSHIRE The Rose of the Shires

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TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

Oundle

Photo: Northamptonshire CC

ight at the historic heart of rural England lies Northamptonshire. Whether you are interested in ambling around stately homes, beautiful churches, breathtaking scenery, shopping trips, cruising the waterways of the Grand Union Canal or the excitement of Silverstone, Northamptonshire has it all. An extensive network of hourly public transport bus services exists to enable you to get the best from the County's attractions. Travelling around by public transport will afford any visitor the ability to relax and absorb the full beauty of Northamptonshire.

www.explorenorthamptonshire.co.uk Brackley: j 01280 700111 email: tic@southnorthants.gov.uk Corby: j 01536 407507 www.corby.gov.uk Kettering: j01536 410266 email: tic@kettering.gov.uk Northampton: j 01604 838800 www.northampton.gov.uk Oundle: j 01832 274333 email: oundletic@east-northamptonshire.gov.uk Silverstone Visitor & TIC: j 08704 588330 Silverstone Circuit www.silverstone.co.uk

DETAILS OF TIMES AND FARES For details of times and fares within Northamptonshire, please telephone Traveline, for a free public transport map guide contact: Bus & Rail Development Team, Transport and Highways, Northamptonshire County Council, Riverside House, Riverside Way, Bedford Road, Northampton NN1 5NX www.northamptonshire.gov.uk

WAYFARER The day ticket that lets you travel 42 far and wide by Bus, Train & Tram…

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Explore Greater Manchester and parts of Cheshire, Derbyshire, Lancashire, Staffordshire and the Peak District. ayfarer is a day ticket that lets you explore Greater WHERE TO BUY WAYFARER TICKETS Manchester and parts of Cheshire, Derbyshire, Staffed rail stations in the Wayfarer area. Lancashire, Staffordshire and the Peak District so it gives GMPTE Travelshops, at bus stations in Greater you an enormous choice of places to visit. Manchester. Whether you are planning a visit or live nearby, there’s no Tourist Information Centres in the Peak District. better way to discover all that the area has to offer. From By post from: Wayfarer Ticket Sales, GMPTE, the rugged splendour of the Peak District and West Pennine Wythenshawe Bus Station, Rowlandsway, moorland, to tranquil Cheshire countryside, the area offers Wythenshawe, M22 5RG. Please make cheques great contrast and variety. There are fascinating towns and payable to ‘GMPTE’ and allow 14 days for delivery. quiet villages to visit - each with local character and plenty WAYFARER PRICES of interesting things to do and see. When you travel by bus, Adult £9.20. train and tram you will have plenty of opportunity to enjoy the views along the way - and if you’ve got kids they’ll love Concession (age 5 to 15 inclusive or 60 and older) the rides. £4.60. No concessionary permit needed but proof of age may be required. Wayfarer is a scratch-card that you buy in advance and Group (up to 4 persons, where no more than 2 are self-date on the day you choose to travel. You can use it on over 15 years of age) £18.40. almost all the buses, trains and Metrolink trams in the Wayfarer area. Wayfarer tickets are valid by bus at any time Prices may change. Please check before purchase. of day and by train and tram after 9.30am weekdays and anytime Saturday, Sunday and public holidays.

SUGGESTED WAYFARER DAYS OUT

Buxton - historic spa town with a crescent, parks and museums. Macclesfield - visit the silk museums and parks. Edale - the starting point for many Peak District walks. Bury - steam trains and a famous market.

RAWTENSTALL

DARWEN RAMSBOTTOM

LITTLEBOROUGH ROCHDALE

WIGAN

BOLTON

BURY HOLMFIRTH

WARRINGTON

MANCHESTER

MORE IDEAS FOR PLACES TO VISIT

GLOSSOP

GMPTE Places to Go guides are a great way to find out about ideas for days out. To order your guides visit www.gmpte.com/connectingpeople or call at a GMPTE Travelshop, at bus stations in Greater Manchester.

ALTRINCHAM WILMSLOW

MACCLESFIELD

CASTLETON

BUXTON BAKEWELL

MATLOCK LEEK CRICH ASHBOURNE

To find out more and see a detailed map showing where Wayfarer can be used, click www.gmpte.com/wayfarer

Getting public transport information Visit www.gmpte.com Call at a GMPTE Travelshop, at bus stations in Greater Manchester Phone Traveline 0871 200 22 33

Hollingworth Lake, Littleborough

Photo: GMPTE

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26 LANCASHIRE The Red Rose County ancashire has a great variety of attractions - historic houses and castles, the coastal resorts, spectacular countryside and charming villages. Two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are located within the County, the high moorland of the Forest of Bowland and the idyllic limestone and woodland scenery around Arnside and Silverdale are both accessible by bus. Discovering Lancashire by bus is made easy due to the extensive network provided by bus operators and Lancashire County Council; contact Traveline on 0871 200 22 33 for full details.

The Ribble Valley Day Ranger Bus Ticket The Ribble Valley Day Ranger bus ticket gives unlimited travel in the delightful Ribble Valley for just £5.00 for an adult, £2.50 for a child (5 to 15 inclusive) or £10.00 for a group ticket (up to 2 adults + 3 children travelling together). Concessions are available. Prices correct at time of press.

Downham Village

Photo: Lancashire CC

DETAILS OF BARGAIN TICKETS Information about all bus services in Lancashire can be obtained by writing to: Policy & Public Transport Section, PO Box 100, Lancashire County Council, County Hall, Preston PR1 0LD or ring Traveline on j 0871 200 22 33.

TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION

Silverdale Photo: Lancashire CC

For information on where you can visit by bus, pick up a leaflet from any County Information Centre. Details of where to stay in Lancashire are available from the Lancashire and Blackpool Tourist Board j 01257 226600, email info@visitlancashire.com website: www.visitlancashire.com

Bowland Photo: Lancashire CC

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27 LINCOLNSHIRE Britain’s Hidden Gem incolnshire is a county full of contrasts, full of history and heritage brought to life by friendly local characters and rural English charm. Many people imagine that the Lincolnshire countryside is flat and featureless; they are then rather surprised when they discover the lovely rolling Wolds, or the south west corner of Lincolnshire which is that typically English mix of country houses, ancient woods and pretty villages. Like many towns in Lincolnshire, Boston and Louth are noted for their traditional markets selling fresh produce brought in from the surrounding area. Alford also has a craft market in the summer and Horncastle has the added bonus of a wealth of antique shops. Stamford is known as ‘the best stone town in England’ and Lincoln glories in its lovely Cathedral and Roman heritage. Lincolnshire has an extensive network of bus routes serving traffic-free roads which make travelling around this county such a pleasure.

AREA BUS GUIDES Lincolnshire County Council produces a series of public transport information leaflets and a set of 11 area bus frequency guides. Free copies of these leaflets are available from Libraries, Tourist Information Centres, Post Offices and Bus Operators or by contacting the Accessibility & Policy Unit, Lincolnshire County Council, City Hall, Lincoln LN1 1DN j 01522 782070. All publications are also available in pdf format from: www.Lincolnshire.gov.uk/busrailtravel

TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION Boston: j 01205 356656 Gainsborough: j 01427 676666 Grantham: j 01476 406166 Horncastle: j 01507 601111 Lincoln: j 01522 873213 Louth: j 01507 601111 Mablethorpe: j 01507 474939 Skegness: j 01754 899887 Sleaford: j 01529 414294 Spalding: j 01775 725468 Stamford: j 01780 755611 Summer only - Easter to October inclusive: Woodhall Spa: j 01526 353775

SUGGESTED TRIPS

Louth Photo: Lincolnshire County Council

Skegness

Skegness – Mablethorpe - Louth (Daily; allow a day) Caistor - Louth (Wednesday & Friday; allow ½ a day) Lincoln – Grantham (Monday – Saturday; allow a day)

Photo: Lincolnshire County Council

In addition to suggested trips why not take a trip out on our other InterConnect bus services and enjoy the delights of Lincolnshire. InterConnect 1: Lincoln to Grantham InterConnect 3: Lincoln to Grimsby InterConnect 5: Lincoln to Boston InterConnect 6: Lincoln to Skegness InterConnect 7: Skegness to Boston InterConnect 9: Skegness to Louth and Mablethorpe InterConnect 51: Louth to Grimsby InterConnect 100: Lincoln to Gainsborough and Scunthorpe InterConnect 505: Spalding to Kings Lynn

BRITAIN’S NATIONAL PARKS & AREAS he 1949 National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act ushered in a new era of countryside recreation and management. It laid the foundations for much of what we today take for granted when enjoying the best of Britain’s landscapes and the opportunities therein for leisure pursuits. The first National Park to be designated, in 1951, was The Peak District; since then a further 11 have been added, with another - The South Downs - confirmed in 2009. Scotland has a further two, including Britain’s largest, The Cairngorms. Ulster, too, has its own Parks. Despite the name, National Parks aren’t “owned” by the nation but by private landowners, water companies, the National Trust and many others. Areas designated as National Parks are subject to strict planning and management controls in order to protect the beauty of the landscapes and to promote outdoor recreation. The same Act also created Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs), of which there are 40 in England and Wales; Scotland has its own designation and it too has 40 National Scenic Areas. These areas are of equally beautiful countryside to that of National Parks but don’t generally have the hype associated with the National Parks in terms of recreational promotion. They include much loved areas such as The Cotswolds, The North Pennines and the Wye Valley.

Some of the areas included in this publication…

NIDDERDALE

29 AONB

DARTMOOR

15 NATIONAL PARK

landscape of contrasts, providing the perfect opportunity for visitors who want to get away from it all. The vast, open heather moorlands are perfect for adventurous walkers - as well as naturalists who will spot a host of rare species. Or explore secluded river valleys and ancient woodlands, where it feels that time has stood still for many centuries. For more information and details of public transport please visit www.nidderdaleaonb.org.uk

Bus at Postbridge Photo: Dartmoor National Park Authority

uy your Sunday Rover ticket and you can explore Dartmoor National Park by bus for just £6, and enjoy breathtaking views of open moorland and granite tors from the Transmoor Link bus. Or hop on the new, circular Haytor Hoppa bus on Saturdays for great walks, or a visit to the beautiful village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. For more information, contact the High Moorland Visitor Centre on 01822 890414 or visit www.dartmoor-npa.gov.uk

B Gouthwaite Reservoir

Photo: Janina Holubecki Nidderdale AONB

OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY YORKSHIRE DALES

46 NATIONAL PARK

he Yorkshire Dales are known for the beauty of their limestone uplands. Swaledale, Wharfedale, Ribblesdale and their tributaries combine with wild moorland and numerous natural features to provide unsurpassed views. Rail services operate to stations on the edge of the Dales, where you Burnsall, Wharfedale can join local buses to travel to the heart of the area. Skipton, Settle, Grassington, Hawes, Leyburn and Richmond provide excellent bases from which to explore the Dales. www.traveldales.org.uk or j 01969 666210.

BRECON BEACONS NATIONAL PARK

eacons Bus will get you out and about in no time. Running on summer Sundays and Bank Holidays, this is a network designed for visitors. Jump on anywhere in South Wales and get out to places like Dan yr Ogof Caves, Brecon Mountain Railway, the Waterfalls area and Offa’s Dyke. Cycle carriage, walks booklet, guided tours and more. Welsh bus pass holders go free! Details: 01873 853254 or www.travelbreconbeacons.info

SOUTH DOWNS

COTSWOLDS

39 the new National Park

12 AONB

iscover the South Downs with our series of ‘Bus Walks’. These downloadable leaflets feature 18 walks all starting and finishing at bus stops across the South Downs from Worthing to Beachy Head. Each walk features a different range of footpaths and bridleways, together with highlighted areas of Open Access land. From Brighton, you can also jump on a ‘Breeze’ bus and be whisked into the countryside. Find out more by visiting www.southdownsonline.org and clicking ‘Visit South Downs’.

A ‘Breeze’ open top bus at Devil’s Dyke

he Cotswolds AONB is the largest of 40 in England and Wales and is visited by people from across the world. Seen by many as the archetypal English landscape, the Cotswolds is a gentle agricultural area, criss-crossed by a network of thousands of miles of drystone walls with rolling hills and valleys. The dramatic escarpment to the west forms an abrupt boundary to the area with the Cotswold Way National Trail running along this edge for 102 miles from north to south. Beautiful towns and villages built from the traditional Cotswold limestone sit nestled in the landscape and contribute to the distinct character of the area. A useful set of public transport booklets is available. ‘Explore the Cotswolds by Public Transport’ enables you to travel across the AONB. Request a copy on 01451 862000 or visit the website www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

The Cotswolds AONB

Photo: Natural England/Nick Turner

BRITAIN’S NATIONAL PARKS & AREAS ll of these precious landscapes suffer from increasing levels of traffic, which can detract from the very beauty that led to their designation. Recognising this, a growing number of National Park Authorities and AONB management teams support networks and routes of recreational bus services, offering visitors (and locals) the chance to access the countryside in an environmentally friendly fashion; many also publish leaflets and booklets detailing walks from bus routes. In this 60th anniversary year of the foundation of our National Parks and AONBs, why not try a trip on a Dalesbus, a Jurassic Coast Bus, a Malvern Hills Hopper or a local service bus and celebrate Britain’s greatest countryside in a sustainable fashion?

NORTH YORK MOORS

34 NATIONAL PARK

oorsbus Network: The North York Moors National Park operates a network of bus services to and through the North York Moors area. Services operate every Sunday and Bank Holiday from April to October, with a more frequent service during the summer months. All day tickets can be bought on the bus - no need to book. Phone 01845 597000 or log onto Ralph’s Cross www.moors.uk.net/moorsbus Photo: Mike Kipling or email moorsbus@moors.uk.net

EAST DEVON

The River Wye at Penallt near Redbrook (Wye Valley AONB)

Photo: Neil Coates

ast Devon AONB is home to the start of the Jurassic Coast, England’s first natural World Heritage Site. Travel through time from the Triassic red cliffs of Exmouth to Cretaceous white chalk in the fishing village of Beer. Take the bus to either end of the Undercliffs National Nature Reserve and trek back home. Visit www.eastdevonaonb.org.uk or call 01404 46663 for our ‘Ride and Stride’ bus friendly information. Join us on board for the best views and let the bus driver worry about narrow Devon lanes and who is going to do the reversing!

MALVERN HILLS

28 AONB

ump on the Hills Hopper bus and explore the diverse beauty of the area, from the flat commons at Castlemorton to the high slopes of the Malvern Hills themselves. The route includes Great Malvern and Ledbury stations and visits key attractions such as Eastnor Castle and deer park and the The Malvern Showground. The route also provides a great starting point for walkers and cyclists. It runs at weekends and on Bank Holidays from Easter to the end of August. It will also carry bicycles and wheelchairs. For more information phone 01684 560616 or visit www.malvernhillsaonb.org.uk

The Malverns from Midsummer Hill

18 AONB

Jurassic Coast Bus Photo: Devon County Council

Photo: Neil Coates

OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY WYE VALLEY

NORTH PENNINES

45 AONB

31 AONB

ye stretching views, ancient ruins, towering cliffs and gentle river meadows hold a key to the lure of the Wye Valley AONB. An exceptional area for walking, cycling or just sightseeing, sites are accessible from the public transport network. A free AONB publication â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Walk this Wyeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lists twelve walks reached by bus. Call 01600 710846, go to www.wyevalleyaonb.org.uk or email information@wyevalleyaonb.org.uk

elcome to the North Pennines - a stunning and varied landscape of open moors, delightful dales, tumbling rivers, fantastic birds, colourful hay meadows, distinctive plants and so much more. As well as being an AONB, the North Pennines is also a UNESCO European and Global Geopark. For more information and a copy of the North Pennines Public Transport Guide, tel. 01388 528801 or visit www.northpennines.org.uk

Bigsweir Bridge

North Pennines AONB

Photo: Natural England/Charlie Hedley

Llyn Cregennen and the Cadair Idris range in Snowdonia National Park (See Gwynedd on page 17)

Photo: Neil Coates

BRITAIN’S NATIONAL PARKS & AREAS OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY 8

CLWYDIAN RANGE AONB

SHROPSHIRE HILLS

37 AONB

ituated in north east Wales, the Clwydian Range is a line of heather clad hills of breathtaking beauty. Known also for their ancient hillforts, they provide spectacular views from their rounded summits. Clwydian Ranger is the name of a network of Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday services, running July to September inclusive, which link surrounding towns with Loggerheads Country Park and other parts of the Clwydian Range. A further service links Prestatyn/Rhyl with Llyn Brenig, Bala and Barmouth. The timetable leaflet includes descriptions of walks in Moel Famau Country Park.

cenic bus rides in the Shropshire Hills. Enjoy the 552/553 Shrewsbury to Bishop’s Castle 7-day bus service through the beautiful Hope Valley, or take the regular 435 Shrewsbury to Ludlow through the heart of the Shropshire Hills. At weekends, from Easter to end September, these services connect with the Shropshire Hills Shuttle buses allowing easy access into the hills for walking, sightseeing and so much more. See www.shropshirehills.info for all visitor information or contact Church Stretton Visitor Information on 01694 723133.

www.clwydianrangeaonb.org.uk

Heading to Bala and Barmouth

Photo: TM

Long Mynd and Stretton Hills

CORNWALL

11 AONB

ell over a quarter of Cornwall is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It consists of 12 separate geographical areas which include 10 stretches of stunning Cornish coastline as well as the Camel Estuary and Bodmin Moor. They are diverse and distinct in their character but have all been chosen for their special qualities. They represent Cornwall’s finest landscapes, the places people would most like to live and the main reason why so many people come to visit. For further information log on to www.cornwall-aonb.gov.uk

Old Cornish tin mine by the coast

Photo: Cornwall AONB

Photo: Shropshire Hills AONB

CHILTERNS AONB

he rolling hills of the Chilterns AONB stretch from the River Thames in south Oxfordshire through Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire to Hitchin in Hertfordshire and are a wonderful place to explore. There are lots of walking routes from the local market towns to stunning viewpoints, tranquil valleys and magnificent beechwoods. For more information visit www.chilternsaonb.org or call Traveline on 0871 200 2233 for details of bus services including the seasonal Chilterns Rambler.

Hughenden Church Photo: Chilterns AONB

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SCOTLAND 30 NORTH-EAST Aberdeenshire and Moray

Stonehaven Harbour

Photo: Aberdeenshire Council

he north east shoulder of Scotland is home to Aberdeenshire and Moray, an area that stretches from the Grampian Mountains in the west to the North Sea coastline, which features stunning golden beaches and rocky cliffs. In between this is a dramatic landscape of mountains, rolling hills, farmlands, heathered moors and salmon-rich rivers. This area of Scotland is home to more castles per acre than anywhere else in the UK. There are over 85 castles to be seen, including the famous Balmoral Castle, holiday home to the Royal Family, and the haunting Slains Castle, which is believed to be the inspiration behind the castle in Bram Stoker’s ‘Count Dracula’. There is lots to discover for those who come to follow in the footsteps of royalty along the Victorian Heritage Trail. Aberdeenshire boasts the only sign-posted Castle Trail in the UK. Moray is home to the world’s only Malt Whisky Trail, which takes visitors to eight of the most well known distilleries and a working cooperage. The North East Coastal Trail takes you around almost 200 miles of Britain’s most breathtaking maritime landscape - sandy beaches, craggy cliffs, and picturesque harbours, which have provided safe refuge for generations of the area’s fishermen. Also found in the area is the Cairngorms National Park. Granted National Park status in 2003, it is the largest and youngest national park in Britain. The park is home to 16,000 people, and 25% of Britain’s threatened birds, animals and plants. It includes moorlands, forests, rivers, lochs and glens. Four of Scotland’s five highest mountains are located within the park. The Heather Hopper bus service is available to take visitors across the park. The service runs between Strathspey and Deeside from May to September; the bus timetable can be accessed at the Cairngorms National Park website. The north east shoulder of Scotland is not just about landscapes and castles; it is also home to two of Scotland’s five ski resorts, and has over 50 golf courses, featuring a mixture of links, parkland, heathland and moorland for any style of golfer.

The Speyside Way, running from Buckie, along the coast to the river mouth on the Moray Firth, is the home to the UK’s largest resident population of bottle-nosed dolphins; and continues to either Tomintoul or Aviemore, is one of only four way-marked, long distance footpaths in Scotland. There are over 20 art galleries and museums spread out through the region, including Duff House, Archaeolink, Scotland’s only pre-history park at Oyne, the Scottish Tartans Museum in Keith, Aden Country Park and Farming Heritage Centre at Mintlaw, and the museum of Scottish Lighthouses at Fraserburgh.

River Spey Photo: Aberdeenshire Council

Strathisla Distillery Photo: Aberdeenshire Council

DETAILS OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES Aberdeen City Council Public Transport Unit j 01224 523073 www.aberdeencity.gov.uk Aberdeenshire Council Public Transport Unit j 01224 664586 www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk The Moray Council Public Transport Unit j 01343 562569 www.moray.gov.uk Traveline Scotland j 0871 200 22 33 www.travelinescotland.com

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES OPEN ALL YEAR VisitScotland Aberdeen & Grampian main offices are: Aberdeen Visitor Information Centre: Contact Centre: j 01224 288828 Shop: 23 Union Street, Aberdeen AB11 5BP Ballater Visitor Information Centre: Old Royal Station, Station Square, Ballater, Aberdeenshire AB35 5QB j01339 755306 Braemar Visitor Information Centre: The Mews, Mar Road, Braemar, Aberdeenshire AB35 5YL j01339 741600 Elgin Visitor Information Centre: Elgin Library, Elgin, IV30 1HS j01343 562608/562614 Inverurie Visitor Information Centre: 18 High Street, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire AB51 3XQ j01467 625800 VisitScotland National Accommodation Booking Line j 0845 22 55 121 www.visitscotland.com

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& GALLOWAY 17 DUMFRIES The natural place to travel ome to one of the loveliest corners of the British Isles next time you feel like a break. A land that is unhurried and uncrowded. A countryside of gentle hills and hidden villages. A place where the sea is never far away and history is everywhere. It’s Dumfries & Galloway. Dumfries, the final resting place of Robert Burns, Scotland’s greatest poet, is an excellent place to start your exploration of the region, but the tourist may then travel by bus and visit towns and villages from Gretna Green to Stranraer and in between. For walkers, there is the Southern Upland Way long distance footpath.

Buses reach the extremities of the region, from high Eskdalemuir to Drummore on the Mull of Galloway, Scotland’s southern-most point. Extensive bus services to coast and countryside radiate from Dumfries, Kirkcudbright, Lockerbie, Newton Stewart and Stranraer, whilst longer distance services operate into the region from Ayr, Carlisle, Edinburgh and Glasgow. Wheelchairs and bicycles can now be accepted on certain bus services, including service 500, Dumfries to Stranraer - please phone for details on 08452 709000

BUS SERVICE INFORMATION Timetable information is available from www.swestrans.org.uk Swestrans, Militia House, English Street, Dumfries DG1 2HR or Tourist Information Centres.

TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION Tourist Information Centre, Whitesands, Dumfries j 01387 253862

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Service 500 Dumfries to Stranraer Photo: Dumfries & Galloway Council

3 BORDERS Explore the Scottish Borders BUS SERVICE INFORMATION

A Bus Map and Guide, together with timetable information is available from Scottish Borders Council, Council Headquarters, Passenger Transport, Newtown St. Boswells, Melrose TD6 0SA. Times are also available from visitor information centres throughout the area.

TOURIST INFORMATION & ACCOMMODATION Burnmouth Harbour

Photo: TM

xploring the Borders by bus can give you a unique and relaxing viewpoint on this beautiful region. Stretching from the rugged east coast through gently rolling countryside to hills in the west, regular bus services link all the major towns and villages. This is an area for exploring. There are historic abbeys and stately homes. Pick up a bargain in the many mill shops. Watch craftsmen at work, walk the hills, fish or ride.

Jedburgh: Murray's Green, Roxburghshire TD8 6BE j 01835 863170 www.visitscottishborders.com

SUGGESTED TRIPS Edinburgh - Kelso - Melrose - Peebles Edinburgh (Weekdays; allow 1 day) Jedburgh - Hawick - Selkirk - Jedburgh (Weekdays; allow 1 day)

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19 EDINBURGH Scotland's Capital enowned Edinburgh author, Alexander McCall Smith, says of Edinburgh, “This is a city of shifting light, of changing skies, of sudden vistas. A city so beautiful it breaks the heart again and again.” Edinburgh is the UK's second most visited city after London and has something for everyone. You really do get it all in one visit - culture, history and a lively and cosmopolitan dining and entertainment scene. Edinburgh Castle, perched atop steep, craggy, volcanic rock, is the first lasting sight for many visitors. And there’s more history, grandeur and beauty everywhere you look: Holyrood Palace and St. Giles’ Cathedral on the Royal Mile in the Old Town, the Scott Monument in the Princes Street Gardens, and the stunning Georgian architecture of the New Town. Or perhaps you’d like something more modern? Try out the exciting Our Dynamic Earth exhibit, Edinburgh Zoo or the Royal Yacht Britannia. Feeling a bit more cultured? Edinburgh is replete with museums and galleries, from the renowned Royal Museum of Scotland to the National Gallery of Scotland, the National Gallery of Modern Art or the more specialised collections at the Museum of Childhood and Writers’ Museum - or even the Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. Alternatively, experience the outdoors with a picnic in Princes Street Gardens or St Andrew Square, or clamber up Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill for inspiring views. The relaxing Royal Botanic Garden is close to the city centre too.

Edinburgh also has a long history of renowned writers, and was named the world’s first-ever UNESCO City of Literature in 2007. You can take a literary pub tour or just soak in the atmosphere of streets that inspired Robbie Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott. The city’s famous modern-day authors include Alexander McCall Smith, JK Rowling and Ian Rankin. You can even go on a tour of Rebus’ favourite haunts! If you like shopping, you’ll love the mix of quaint and quirky shops, high street favourites and luxury outlets like Harvey Nichols, Jenners and Emporio Armani. Make sure you saunter around the great shops in the New Town, Grassmarket and Old Town. As well, every Saturday, Castle Terrace offers up a bustling Inspiring shopping farmer’s market, while Castle Street hosts a fine foods market on the last Thursday of each month. You’ll also find fantastic bars and restaurants, including three restaurants with Michelin stars. Come in the summer or winter months and you’ll enjoy world-famous festivals. Edinburgh boasts the world’s first Fringe Festival, part of the Edinburgh International Festival, a huge event that attracts masses of people in August and early September. Watch live acts ranging from stand-up comedians to modern dance and classic theatre. And, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay and Winter Festival are dazzling times when you can skate below the Castle, enjoy the beautiful Christmas lights, and experience the New Year in spectacular fashion. For further information, contact Edinburgh and Lothians Tourist Board on 0845 2255 121 or visit www.edinburgh.org

BUS TIMES AND FARES

Princes Street Gardens, overlooked by Edinburgh Castle

For information on all public transport in Edinburgh and the Lothians, contact Traveline Scotland on 0871 200 22 23, or at www.travelinescotland.com Edinburgh is served by an excellent bus network, with several bus routes operating every 10 minutes, and real time information bustrackers at many stops. Lothian Buses is the principal city bus operator: they can be contacted on 0131 555 6363, and a comprehensive map of their network, with timetables, can be found at www.lothianbuses.co.uk First also provides bus services into the city from the surrounding area, and can be contacted on 08708 72 72 71: or at www.firstgroup.com, by choosing Scotland from the dropdown menu.

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1 ARGYLL and BUTE

Calgary Beach and bus terminus, west coast of Mull

Photo: Douglas Blades

rgyll and Bute lies at the southern extremity of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland and exhibits a wide variety of scenery. From the mountainous uplands in the north, the rolling farmland and pastures of Kintyre and Bute in the south, the islands and lochs of its western Atlantic seaboard, to the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and the Clyde Estuary. There are bus services to nearly all towns and villages within the area. Helensburgh is easily accessible by rail or bus from Glasgow. New seasonal fast ferry for Jura at Tayvallich Photo: Douglas Blades D u n o o n a n d

SUGGESTED TRIPS (by ferry and bus) Iona – full day trip from Oban Mull (Seasonal) - Narrow Gauge Steam railway, Torosay Castle and Gardens, Duart Castle - day trip from Oban

SUGGESTED TRIPS (by bus) Dunoon - Inveraray - visit Inveraray Castle, Bell Tower and Jail Benmore Garden, Dunoon - inclusive fares available from Glasgow area during summer season Islay and Jura (Seasonal) - Distillery visits

Rothesay are reached by ferries with connecting bus and rail services. A network of local bus services radiates from both towns. Regular scheduled coach services link Glasgow with Argyll’s other principal towns: Campbeltown, Inveraray, Lochgilphead and in the case of Oban also by rail. Onward connections are available by ferry to the islands of Coll, Colonsay, Gigha, Iona, Islay, Jura, Mull and Tiree.

DETAILS OF TIMES AND BARGAIN TICKETS A Day Tripper ticket gives freedom to explore the eastern part of Argyll and Bute, covering Helensburgh, Garelochhead, Loch Lomond and Lochgoilhead. It is valid on most bus and rail services. It costs £9.40 (one adult and up to two children) or £16.75 (two adults and up to 4 children). This ticket is administered by Strathclyde Partnership for Transport from whom explanatory leaflets may be obtained. Write to The Marketing Department, Strathclyde Partnership for Transport, Consort House, 12 West George Street, Glasgow G2 1HN.

TIMETABLE ENQUIRIES All times available from Traveline j 0871 200 22 33. Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station for bus station information other than times j 0141 333 3708. Argyll and Bute Council Public Transport Helpline 0900 to 1700 Mondays to Fridays j 01546 604360 or email public.transport@argyll-bute.gov.uk Council website with links to timetables: www.argyll-bute.gov.uk

TOURIST INFORMATION

OPERATORS (MAIN BUS SERVICES)

The following Tourist Information Centres are open all year: Bowmore (Isle of Islay): j 01496 810254 Campbeltown: j 01586 552056 Craignure (Isle of Mull): j 01680 812377 Dunoon: j 01369 703785 Inveraray: j 01499 302063 Oban: j 01631 563122 Rothesay: j 01700 502151

Anderson Coaches Bowmans Coaches Islay Bus Services Scottish Citylink Coaches West Coast Motors (all offices)

j 01546 870330 j 01860 812313 j 01496 840273 j 08705 505050 j 01586 552319

OPERATORS (FERRY SERVICES) Argyll and Bute Council Caledonian Macbrayne

j 01546 604360 j 01475 650100

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40 STIRLING The Heritage Capital of Scotland tirling is the heritage capital of Scotland. To describe Stirling as a great place to live, work or visit hardly scratches the surface. As the heritage capital of Scotland, the city contains a blend of the traditional and the new and has undergone changes of both political and geographic nature over the years.

Stirling Castle

Photo: Stirling Council

Stirling’s most identifiable and permanent historical symbol is the Castle perched on its rocky crag surveying a surrounding district that boasts some of Scotland’s most beautiful countryside and is completely accessible by bus. Stirling Castle is by far the grandest of all of Scotland’s castles and one of the most popular visitor attractions in the country. Located 250 feet above the plateau on an extinct volcano, Stirling became the strategic military key to the kingdom during the 13th and 14th century Wars of Independence and was the favourite royal residence of many of the Stuart Monarchs. Stirling contains numerous other tourist attractions… Wallace Monument - Scotland’s commemoration of its great hero popularised in the Hollywood film epic Braveheart; The National Wallace Monument is open all year round and is packed with fascinating exhibits and displays. Completed in 1869 after eight years construction, the 220 feet high Wallace Monument sits prominently on the Abbey Craig two miles north of the city of Stirling itself. It was from this prominent hilltop in 1297 that William Wallace watched the English army approach across Stirling Bridge before leading the Scots into the battle of the same name; and victory. A fitting, and striking, location for the national Wallace Monument monument to a national Photo: Stirling Council hero.

Another legendary Scottish victory, the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314 is celebrated at the Bannockburn Heritage Centre, two miles south of Stirling. Here there is an audio-visual presentation of the battle, complemented by a ‘Kingdom of the Scots’ Robert the Bruce exhibition and a striking statue Photo: Stirling Council of King Robert the Bruce. The Stirling Council area stretches from the historic Royal Burgh of Stirling, with its wealth of historic buildings to the shores of Loch Lomond, the highlands of Breadalbane and the Trossachs with its scenic lochs, mountains and forests. In all, Stirling area covers a little over 2,000 square kilometres.

Map of Stirling Council area

DETAILS OF TIMES AND FARES First j 08708 72 72 71 Postbus j 08457 740 740 PTI Traveline j 0871 200 22 33 Scottish Citylink j 08705 50 50 50 Stirling Bus Station j 01786 446474 Stirling Council Park & Ride j 0845 277 7000 or contact Stirling Council’s Public Transport Co-ordination by emailing tcc@stirling.gov.uk for bus timetable information

TOURIST INFORMATION Aberfoyle j 01877 382352 Callander j 01877 330342 Killin j 01567 820254 Tyndrum j 01838 400246 Stirling (Dumbarton Road) j 01786 475019 Stirling (Moto Services) j 01786 814111 Stirling (Wallace Monument) j 01786 448531

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20 FIFE The Kingdom of Fife he ancient Kingdom of Fife, lying between the estuaries of the Forth and the Tay, is easily accessible by bus from Edinburgh, Edinburgh Airport, Dundee or Glasgow and offers its own comprehensive network of bus services. There are many reminders of the times when Fife was the home of Scotland's Kings and Queens. In Dunfermline, once the country's capital, there is the Royal Palace and also the Abbey, where Robert the Bruce is buried. At Falkland, the Palace was once the hunting lodge of the Stuart Kings. Around the coast are attractive villages, all accessible by bus. Culross, near Kincardine, has remained virtually unchanged since the 17th century. Deep Sea World, located in North Queensferry is Britain's first world class Aquarium. Situated in the shadow of the Forth Rail Bridge, it promises a spectacular day out for visitors. In Dysart, the houses have been carefully restored by the National Trust for Scotland, while in the fishing villages of the East Neuk, the houses, with their pantiled roofs and crow-stepped gables, crowd around the harbours creating a unique atmosphere. The Scottish Fisheries Museum in Anstruther is a special attraction for visitors. With its castle, cathedral and ancient university, St Andrews is one of the most interesting historic towns in Europe and is directly accessible by bus from Dundee, Glasgow and Edinburgh. It is also, of course, the home of golf. Other attractions in the town include the British Golf Museum and the Aquarium. Inland, the Fife Folk Museum at Ceres and the Scottish Deer Centre near Cupar, are well worth a visit.

USEFUL WEBSITES www.travelinescotland.com www.fifedirect.org.uk/businformation www.airdirect747.com www.go-flexi.org www.ferrytoll.org www.visitfife.com www.fifecoastalpath.com

TOURIST INFORMATION Anstruther (summer only) Crail (summer only) Dunfermline (all year) Kirkcaldy (all year) St Andrews (all year)

j 01333 311073 j 01333 450869 j 01383 720999 j 01592 267775 j 01334 472021

Away from the towns and villages, the splendour of the countryside is only a short bus trip away. The Lomond Hills provide many miles of open countryside for walking or alternatively, walk a few miles of the scenic Fife Coastal Path between the Forth and Tay Bridges. The country park at Lochore Meadows near Lochgelly and Craigtoun Park near St Andrews have many different activities on offer but are also ideal simply for a relaxing day out. This is just a sample of the places to see and things to do in Fife with much more to discover when you visit the Kingdom. Visit the 'Bus Information' page on www.fifedirect.org.uk or see the 'Useful Websites' section above.

Go-Flexi Bus Photo: Fife Council

Airport Bus - Airdirect747 Photo: Fife Council

Forth Bridge Photo: Fife Council

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& STAFFORDSHIRE 6 CHESHIRE In the Pennine Foothills with bakerbus adiating out from Stoke-on-Trent and Macclesfield and for much of the time hugging the Pennine foothills, is a network of services operated by bakerbus that allow you to explore some delightful parts of north Staffordshire and east Cheshire. To the south, places served include Stafford, Stone and the lovely Trentham Gardens incorporating the exciting Monkey Forest.

To the north lies Biddulph, home to the magnificent Biddulph Grange Gardens; Mow Cop visible for miles and an outstanding viewpoint; and the pleasant Georgian town of Congleton; Macclesfield, a town built on the silk trade has a great deal of historical interest, good shops, cafes and pubs. From here, another bakerbus service runs via charming Bollington to Stockport (ideal for shopping) or take another service to Knutsford, gateway to Tatton Park with miles of open deer park, hall and formal gardens.

TRAVEL INFORMATION & FARES bakerbus www.bakerbus.com j01782 522101 The bakerbus ALL DAY TICKET (available from the driver of any bakerbus service) gives unlimited travel on their services in Staffordshire and Cheshire on the day of issue. Adults £3.50, Children £2.00, Family £7.00 (maximum of two adults and up to three children, all travelling together).

TOURIST INFORMATION Biddulph Grange Gardens (National Trust)

www.visitstoke.co.uk www.enjoystaffordshire.com www.staffsmoorlands.gov.uk www.visitcheshire.com www.visit-stockport.com

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Photo: TM

13 COVENTRY The Coventry Traveller the bus for Using the 777 and X5 to get to TheUsing Coventry Traveller Walking Take a break Cambridge and Oxford The City and beyond...

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I’m sure that’s all of us You can enjoy the journey can get from Birmingham to, benefits of travelling by public transport ... and so I easy enough. Best adult train (no Torbay (Torquay, Paignton at various times anyway. and views rather than For those over 60say, Totnes Paignton Cambridge, are not Getting there… shall. However, there is one direction in which it is available from Coventry very well New isCoaches for Stagecoachfare East’s Discount Card required),and it’s Brixham) Coombe Park is our concentrating on driving Paignton from Cambridge — OxfordanX5 service. Coventry 777 depart 0830 1015 1145 more difficult than it should be to travel from what,for a Day available at the moment is £52 (£34.30 served by Coventry. bus and makes Zoo just £5.95 Return destination this time round. It’s usually cheaper and However, aredestination. ways PLYMOUTH with Railcard) byCoachway ideal there holiday TLHRail Milton Keynes arrive 0930 1115 1245 after all, is a city of over 300,000. And that(£9.40 is east! Ramblers at Caersws on Fridays, Summer Buy your return ticket to Senior The ‘Main Gate’ is easily certainly more Brixham round that which we will cover Cambridge Coach Company APEX tickets inCoachway Leisure Resort Torquay Milton Keynes X5de Courcy depart 1000 1130 1300 Saturdays and certain other MiltoninKeynes Coachwaybooking in reached on Travel friendly. sometimes even Lincoln and I would need several pagesenvironmentally to in future issues. withdrew its service and so and The Ramblers your Day Return from advance. The further indid provides an excellent value Cambridgeservice arrive 1155 1325 1455 peak days). For a longer stay advance from National 585; the frequency of changing. cover the gradual declineTwo of of theGrimsby Several yearswhich ago, theexplore National Express. Encouraging who organise a to Wolverhampton. Example day many without Salcombe Dartmouth Kingswear advance you book, the more base from of up to a Association month, the fares Express at Pool Meadow or which is much improved Thiswhich latter utilise action, I understand, services in an easterly organisations Cambridge Coach Company competition doesn’t Rambles return fares: Wolverhamptonlikely you are toalways get this ticket, Torbay, theon-line Devon are £8.60 programme or £13.30 of Rail atCoast and Getting back… recently. Departures are was tofor save theare: train having to theput direction but it started, I public transport on a two-hourly service the desired results. utilising train from Welshpool £11.00 or £7.25 walks otherwise it’s likely to be southern Dartmoor. Return in achieve Bristol. Return is at 1150 from Salcombe, Exeter respectively. www.nationalexpress.com generally at 25 and Cambridge X5 55 depart 1510 1640 Teignmouth, 1810 cut across West Coast guess, with the BeechingCoventry cuts from Cambridge toto enjoy columns are with WolverhamptonShrewsbury forthe walks, mainly C.H.A. whothe travel £73.70 these (£48.65 with Railcard) evenings theRailcard;Anyway, Torquay arriving Coventry at and Plymouth whilst on minutes past the hour on Milton Keynes Coachway arrive 1655 1825 1955 at Nuneaton but including the service frommainly by Main Birmingham return Machynlleth designed to through this is £15.00 or cut £9.90 in the Wales and Shropshire, Call bus toLine nearby for a Saver Return which includedand entertainment. 1940. Otherwise travel is via Summer Sundays and Bank Mondays to Saturdays outcome for a poor Rugby to Peterborough. More Milton Keynes 777 whilst depart 1705 1835 2005 to see in Cambridge and Oxford (utilising the then newtoA14, I Railcard. mazeavailable of information on Coachway with 01691 654066. OnOn the former, countryside areas inmakesWhat right upand to the day Mondays Saturdays, Birmingham. Best fare for the Holidays you can explore service recently, the splitting of the 1820 1935 Dartmoor 2100 whichbe a long wayWith page you will Coventry find waysthere of are departures on arrive organisations, those overthink) 60 would able Warwickshire and between the Westtwo of the of3 travel. there’s awent through train to both Over 60s (no Card required) on the Dartmoor Sundays at 0908, 1108 and country’s ‘biggest’ cities. To train service between filling the gap. to walks Cambridge (and the public getting transport take coach to use theirtofree pass, whilst Midlands www.coventrycha. There is a direct from Torquay fromNational Birmingham is £22.25 return or £38.50 if Sunday Bus network and Buses leave from Stop T make matters worse, because Coventry and Leicester into Express with aplace Oxford) for modest cost, and waiting1308. room - see on most Saturdays. for Wales you would book at 0942; co.uk or call 02476 418198 Coventry toCafé, Torquay dailyand at further information Newresponded Street arriving travelling outbelow visit places such Haytor, or back on a at Pool Meadow and the the connecting services are two at Nuneaton hasn’t helped competing service making the with 0900; quite reasonable journey arriving 1645 with a Torquay at 1307. Otherwise Widdecombe in the Moor and Friday, Summer Saturday journey takes 24 minutes. run by two separate – remember when you could former’s viable timeschance too. We’ll cover other to stretch your legs at you service need tonon change atno many more. (and certain other Peak days). companies, some of the go through to Nottingham and but if you book through to doubt. Shortly afterwards, the routes in a laterOxford edition. Pick up a timetable for the Tickets available at Pool return journey at the BusOxford rather than Milton The direct coaches to Oxford Further information: Meadow or online at Station before you leave.Keynes, you would be at 1235 and 1515 arrive www.nationalexpress.com after Mr F from CV6 asks: Buses services in and around charged for the whole journey Can I use my Over 60s those in the reverse direction Torbay www.torbay.gov.uk/ TLH Leisure Resort is even though you can travel Pass on the London so are not suitable for a about 5 minutes index/transportandstreets/ walk from the Underground? free on service X5. day trip. Travel Information available at Pool Meadow. In this section, we’ll feature publictransport.htm or ring Railway Station or about 15 Colourful Cambridge Interestingly, National Centre right by the There are so many things to many of the places you can The answer, sadly, is no. 01803 207687 (0900-1700 minutes walk from the Here are some sample Express do quote some Bus/Coach Station. X6 alighting point in extensive shopping Leicester,(and it’s hardtwo to University now go with your National Residentsdo ofinCoventry Mondays to Fridays). A large Local course These times (daily): journeys using the 777 route Midlands) use the Buscomplained Station.areas. wherecan to start. Travel Pass beyond the the West know print version is also available. buses for travelling around CitiesThe hardly needofany like to refuse, my friend now A friend mine their Passes on the rail and And, of course, recently extended shopping limits of the West Midlands Dartmoor Sunday Rover are about 5 minutes away. Contactuses either the There are good introduction. from the from near theofbus. thatApart the bus service tram system throughout theas is the you can use 45 your centre is a delight County. Getting there… www.devon.gov.uk/devon There is plenty to see in tourist information centres beautiful university bus services from most parts where shebuildings, lives takes asthe well as of the city. to University reach places whole of centre Let’s start off with a visitWest to Midlands, bus Torquay if below for further information: there are minutes lovely riverside 777 itself, depart of course, 0830 but1015 1145or ring 01392 382800 of the city, especially nowCoventry that topass reach buses throughout England. of interest in Cambridge: Be sure not to miss theboat Open Leicester. It’s an easy journey Mondays to to roam0930 with your 226runs 8006every 15 Milton Keynes Coachway you decide walks, trips, museums, the0871 85/585 Hospital and it was quicker for arrive 1115 (0830-1700 1245 Likewise, those over 60 Coombe Park The National Space Centre Leicester’s Here Market which has a huge her of around 11/4 hours on Travel Fridays) there’s a0955 very 1125 252200 botanical gardens of her insuburbs minutes directly from the city son toand take theOxford: car too.01865 Leicester Milton inKeynes Coachway Bus X5 Pass,depart 1255 (Seasonal services living in London can travel twoabout of my 20 favourites tocentre get and railway station. range of fruit and vegetables at tookare de Courcy’ service X6. There frequent daily As well as the park with itsservice which them on trains, Underground and Oxford arrive 1125linking1255 usually 1425 start in May). though hardGreater to beatLondon prices. Then minutes there oryou are departures from Pool trams within Technology (tel.also 0116 299magnificent trees, For a superb guide to Newton Abbot, lakes, birds Torquay, The above argument so.started, That’s true, butyou’ll need moreforgotten than onewas trip to do them the museums, Romanwhat she had Meadow, Stand L at 0850,and busesare 5111). There are plenty ofincluding Warwickshire’s Torbay itself, log on to Paignton and Brixham. Buses throughout applies when travelling toGetting back… justice. Bus Station, history, parks and gardens. 1020 and 1150 on Mondays to buses toEast the centre from www.englishriviera.co.uk run regularly to Totnes, England. largest heronryalso (May and airports such as back Luton, the total time (andFrom cost)the it was Oxford X5 depart 1505 1635 1805 walk to nearby Abbey Park, You can obtain all the Saturdays with return the nearby main road. Another I’ll try and include a or ring 01803 211211. Babbacombe, Dartmouth, June), flower meadow Midlands, Manchester, taking for the son to make the Keynes29 Coachway arrive 1630 1800 1930 a visit time information youofneed about services at 1450, 1620 anddiagram of the network trip wouldand be to Milton take service (summer) and more, there are Gatwick twothe returnbeautiful journeys;forone to at any Stansted, Milton Keynes Coachway 777 depart 1705 1835 2005 buses radiating from of year. the city from theLondon Tourist Information 1750 from St Margaret’s Bus orall30 to the ofout which areBotanical excellent facilities including take her and one Afterwards, to fetch her followHeathrow; Euston and Victoria Coach Coventry arrive 1805 1935 2100 northwards to the well served Centre at the Town Hall. For Station Stand 18. Gardens (tel. 0116 271 2933), toilets, shop and cafeteria by public back...120canal minutes travelling a future issue. Space Centre (tel. information on bus services Unfortunately, there’s no Stations in asit’s wellnot as its rare plants which are open Published seven daysby: a transport. which Though time in all National for the two of them. You can actually get the to most Transport Marketing, Box 4380, 011690 261 0261) and throughout city and That’s against Sunday service by this route. and trees, is green fullThere’s of interesting a caféweek. and waiting Milton aKeynes Coachway. The PO X5 generally runs Coventry CV1 9BZ The room shopat sells set of always possible, think minutes for adjacent places in London fairly Email: tmtours@aol.com Editor: Pat Neal Museum of Science & beyond, there’s a well stocked For full details, timetable sculptures. Entrance is free. the Traveline Web Site for full details or ring 01604 676060 for four See leaflets describing when you can and save every 30 minutes. her by herself on the bus! readily by bus. Please note Transport Marketing is not a Tour Operator; readers undertake any or towalks ask for aaround timetable. various thethat park. money at the same time. further information Even though the son didn’t Oxford Cathedral Tower, Christchurch College trips at their own risk and are responsible for arranging their own travel insurance.

• Travelling East – not• always easy!

• •

Travelling to

Hospital and Airports

Photo: tadelloeser

Readers’ Letters

University Day Trips by Bus

Photo: Martin James

ituated close to the heart of England, Coventry is an ideal base for a holiday with its old and new cathedrals, transport heritage and recently refurbished Herbert Museum and Art Gallery. Coventry is also the centre of an excellent network of bus routes to places in Warwickshire, Leicestershire, the West Midlands and beyond. Kenilworth Castle with its recently opened and much acclaimed knot garden, the Space Centre at Leicester, Twycross Zoo, Stratford upon Avon are just a few of the many places easily reached by bus. Transport Marketing publish a regular newsletter with ideas on where to go from Coventry which includes nearby places such as those above and many further afield as well. Email tmtours@aol.com to receive the newsletter as a ‘pdf’ free of charge or send a book of 12 x 2nd class stamps to The Coventry Traveller, Transport Marketing, PO Box 4380, Coventry, CV1 9BZ to receive the next six issues of the printed version.

The Coventry Traveller Issue 2 Page 2

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The Coventry Traveller

Page 1 Though every care has been taken in providing this information, you are strongly advised toIssue check times The Coventry Traveller 2 and fares before travelling. Page 3 The Coventry Traveller Issue 2

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SCENIC BRITAIN by train

ow in its seventh year of publication, Scenic Britain by Train is an invaluable source of information and inspiration for getting off the beaten track by train. The booklet is packed full of photographs and information on Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rural railway lines. Each entry includes a map and description of the line together with what to see in the towns and countryside along the way. There are details of how to get further information whilst the FREEPOST form SCENIC at the back of the booklet will make getting that BRITAIN information an easy process. Booklets are available, free of SCEN by trai ICn charge, at Tourist Information Centres, libraries and railway BRITAIN by train stations in most parts of the country or by sending a stamped addressed C5 (6" x 9") envelope to: Freepost RRUR-LSSG-KRSU Scenic Britain PO BOX 98 Huddersfield HD7 9AB

2009/10 Editio n

Your guide to travell ing around the countr y by train

Public Transport Information Other useful web sites etc. UK: www.transportdirect.info Scotland: www.trafficscotland.org Traveline provides impartial public transport timetable information. You can phone Traveline on 0871 200 22 33 from anywhere in Britain at National call-rate charges. The service is generally available between 8am and 8pm every day (except 25, 26 Dec and 1 Jan).

London: 020 7222 1234 www.tfl.gov.uk Rail: www.nationalrail.co.uk 08457 48 49 50

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SCENIC BRITAIN

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