The Lake District, a picturesque region in Cumbria, England, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Navigating the area can be made easier and more cost-effective by understanding the various bus fare options available. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the details of Lake District bus fares, helping you plan your travels and make the most of your time in this stunning landscape.
Current Cap on Single Bus Fares
One of the most significant developments in the Lake District bus fare landscape is the introduction of a £2 cap on single bus fares. This cap, which is part of a government initiative, will remain in effect until December 31, 2024. This means that regardless of the distance traveled, you can expect to pay no more than £2 for a single bus journey within the Lake District.
Discounts for Frequent Bus Travel
For those planning to use the bus services extensively during their stay, the Lake District offers several discounted ticket options:
Day Tickets
- Central Lakes DayRider: This ticket costs £9.50 for adults, £8.00 for children and concessions, and £25.00 for groups. It provides unlimited travel across the Central Lakes zone.
- One Day North West Explorer: Priced at £12.00 for adults, £9.00 for children and concessions, and £33.00 for groups, this ticket offers unlimited travel across the entire Lake District, including Barrow, Carlisle, Lancaster, and West Cumbria.
Weekly and Season Tickets
For frequent travelers, the Lake District also offers weekly and season tickets that provide even greater savings:
- Seven Day North West Megarider Gold: This ticket costs £34.00 for adults and £70.00 for groups, allowing unlimited travel across the North West region.
£2 Bus Fare Scheme Availability
The £2 bus fare scheme will be available until 31 December 2024, providing a cost-effective option for exploring the Lake District by bus during this period.
Bus and Boat Tickets
For a more comprehensive experience, the Lake District offers combined bus and boat tickets, allowing you to explore the region’s stunning lakes and waterways:
- Central Lakes Zone: £14.50 for adults, £8.80 for children, and £33.10 for groups.
- Explorer Zone: £17.80 for adults, £11.90 for children, and £35.60 for groups.
Other Options
In addition to the above, the Lake District also offers PlusBus tickets, which can be added to rail tickets to provide unlimited bus travel on specific routes. For example, the One Day PlusBus ticket costs £7.00 for adults, £3.50 for children, and £4.70 for railcard holders.
By understanding the various bus fare options available in the Lake District, you can plan your travels more effectively and make the most of your time in this beautiful region. Whether you’re a frequent visitor or a first-time explorer, the Lake District’s bus network provides a convenient and cost-effective way to navigate the area and immerse yourself in its natural wonders.
References
Cumbria County Council. (n.d.). FARES FROM WINDERMERE. Retrieved from https://cumbria.gov.uk/elibrary/content/orphans/2-10-17/42943171229.pdf
Stagecoach. (n.d.). Zone & Explorer Bus Tickets in The Lake District. Retrieved from https://www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/cumbria-and-north-lancashire/the-lakes-ticket-guide
Westmorland and Furness Council. (n.d.). Windermere Fares and Tickets. Retrieved from https://legacy.westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk/buses/fares/windermere.asp
Stagecoach. (n.d.). Lake District Bus & Boat Travel Tickets. Retrieved from https://www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/cumbria-and-north-lancashire/lake-district-bus-and-boat-travel-tickets
Westmorland and Furness Council. (n.d.). Ambleside Bus Fares and Tickets. Retrieved from https://legacy.westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk/buses/fares/ambleside.asp