New to Bus Travel?

Never travelled by bus before?

It’s easy to travel by bus — millions of journeys are made every year with Central Connect. However, we know that if you’re new to bus travel, it can feel a bit daunting. That’s why we’ve put together this quick guide to help you know what to expect. Enjoy the ride!

Before You Set Off

Before you travel, make sure you know which service you need, where your bus stop is, and when the bus will arrive. You might also want to check return journeys so you don’t miss the last bus home.

You can find all this information using our Journey Planner, by downloading the Central Connect app, or by picking up a paper timetable from one of our local travel centres of cafés.

At the Bus Stop

Bus stops are clearly marked with a sign, and busy stops usually have timetable information displayed. Remember, buses from the same stop may go to different destinations, so always check the number on the front of the bus before boarding.

When you see your bus approaching, raise your arm to signal to the driver that you’d like the bus to stop. Make sure the driver has seen your signal and that the indicators are flashing before lowering your arm. If you don’t signal clearly, the driver might think you’re not waiting for their bus and continue past.

Let any passengers getting off do so before you board. If you find it difficult to get on, ask the driver to lower the bus — they’ll be happy to help. Please note that at stops without raised pavements, you may still need to step up slightly.

Getting Your Ticket

When you board, tell the driver where you’re going and what kind of ticket you need.

Single tickets are for one-way journeys.
Day returns let you travel there and back the same day.
Weekly and longer-term tickets are also available for regular travel.

Where possible, please pay by contactless or buy your ticket on the Central Connect app. This keeps boarding quick, helps keep drivers safe by reducing cash handling, and ensures buses stay on time.

If you’re using a concessionary pass, place it on the reader on the driver’s ticket machine with your photo facing up.
If you’ve bought a mobile ticket on the app, make sure it’s activated and ready to scan when you board.

If you’re unsure about anything, just ask the driver; they’re there to help. Keep your ticket or pass with you during your journey, as an inspector may ask to see it.

Taking a Seat

If you feel unsteady on your feet, ask the driver to wait until you’re seated before the bus moves off. If all seats are taken, hold onto a rail while standing. When going upstairs, always use the handrail and take care on the stairs.

If you need to stand, move down the bus to make space for others. Avoid standing near the doors or blocking the aisle, as this can make it harder for people to get on and off.

Please offer your seat to someone who may need it more, such as an elderly person, someone with a disability, or a passenger carrying a small child. Some seats at the front are reserved for these passengers — please leave them free if required.

Travelling with Wheelchairs, Pushchairs, or Luggage

All Central Connect vehicles are low-floor and easy access, suitable for wheelchairs. Each bus has a ramp at the entrance to help wheelchair users board easily.

You can bring a pushchair or buggy on board. If the wheelchair space is free, you can place your buggy there unfolded. However, if a wheelchair user wishes to board, the driver may ask you to fold your pushchair and place it in the luggage rack. Please ensure your pushchair doesn’t block the aisle.

Shopping trolleys are welcome, provided you can lift them on and off the bus yourself. Please take care not to block the aisle or knock other passengers.

Unfortunately, fixed-frame bicycles can’t be carried on our buses due to space and safety limits. Foldable bikes are welcome as long as they’re folded and in a suitable bag.

You’re welcome to bring luggage or suitcases on board, as long as they’re safely stored in the luggage rack or another secure space, and not blocking the aisle.