Bristol

Comprehensive Guide to Buses in Bristol, United Kingdom

Bristol, a vibrant city in the southwest of England, has a well-connected bus network that serves as one of the primary modes of public transportation. Operated mainly by First West of England, the bus system is designed to connect the city center with its suburbs, nearby towns, and key landmarks. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate Bristol’s bus system effectively.

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1. Ticket Costs and Types of Tickets

Bristol’s bus fares are structured to accommodate different travel needs, with options for single journeys, day passes, and longer-term tickets. Here’s a breakdown:

Single Tickets

• Adult Single: Prices vary depending on the distance, typically ranging from £2 to £4.50.
• Child Single: Usually around £1.50 to £2.50.
• Short Hop: A reduced fare for very short journeys, costing around £1.50.

Day Tickets

• Bristol Day Ticket: Unlimited travel within Bristol for one day.
  • Adult: £5.50
  • Child: £3.50
• West of England Day Ticket: Covers a wider area, including Bath and other nearby towns.
  • Adult: £9
  • Child: £6

Multi-Day and Season Tickets

• Week Ticket: Unlimited travel for 7 days.
  • Bristol Zone: £23
  • West of England Zone: £30
• Month Ticket: Unlimited travel for 30 days.
  • Bristol Zone: £85
  • West of England Zone: £110
• Annual Ticket: Substantial savings for frequent travelers.
  • Bristol Zone: £850
  • West of England Zone: £1,100

Group Tickets

• Group Day Ticket: Ideal for families or groups of up to 5 people traveling together. Costs around £11 for unlimited travel within Bristol for one day.

Concessions

• Seniors and disabled passengers with a valid English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) pass can travel for free during off-peak hours (9:30 AM to 11 PM on weekdays and all day on weekends).

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2. How to Purchase Tickets

There are several convenient ways to buy bus tickets in Bristol:

Mobile App

• The First Bus App is the most convenient option. You can purchase and store tickets digitally, plan routes, and check live bus times. Tickets bought via the app are often slightly cheaper than buying on the bus.

On the Bus

• You can pay for tickets directly from the driver using contactless payment cards, mobile payment apps (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay), or cash. Note that drivers may not give change for large cash amounts, so try to have the exact fare.

Travel Shops

• Visit the First Bus Travel Shop at Bristol Bus Station for assistance, ticket purchases, and advice.

Online

• Weekly, monthly, and annual passes can be purchased online via the First Bus website and loaded onto a smart card or the mobile app.

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3. Major Bus Routes

Bristol’s bus network is extensive, with frequent services connecting key areas. Below are some of the most important routes:

City Center and Suburbs

• Route 8/9: Links the city center with Clifton and the Bristol Zoo area.
• Route 70/71: Connects the city center with UWE (University of the West of England) and Filton.
• Route 75/76: Runs between Hengrove and Cribbs Causeway, passing through the city center.
• Route 90: Links the city center with Knowle and Hengrove.

Airport and Regional Connections

• Airport Flyer (A1): A direct service between Bristol Airport and the city center. Tickets cost around £8 one-way or £13 return.
• X39: A fast service between Bristol and Bath.
• Metrobus Routes (m1, m2, m3): High-frequency, rapid services connecting key areas like Cribbs Causeway, the city center, and Emersons Green.

Night Buses

• Some routes, such as the m1 and 75/76, operate late into the night, but services are less frequent after 11 PM. Check schedules in advance if traveling late.

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4. Operating Hours

• Most buses operate from around 5:30 AM to midnight, with reduced services on Sundays and public holidays.
• Metrobus services and key routes like the 75/76 often run later into the night.

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5. Accessibility for Disabled Passengers

Bristol’s buses are designed to be accessible for passengers with disabilities. Key features include:

• Low-Floor Buses: All buses are equipped with low floors and ramps for wheelchair users.
• Priority Seating: Designated seats for disabled passengers and those with reduced mobility.
• Audio-Visual Announcements: Many buses have screens and audio systems to announce stops.
• Assistance Dogs: Guide dogs and assistance dogs are welcome on all buses.
• Wheelchair Space: Each bus has a dedicated space for one wheelchair or mobility scooter. Note that this space is shared with prams, so there may be occasional conflicts during busy times.

If you require additional assistance, drivers are trained to help passengers board and alight safely.

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6. Local Tips and Considerations

• Plan Ahead: Use the First Bus App or Google Maps to check live bus times and plan your journey. Buses can sometimes be delayed during peak hours due to traffic congestion.
• Metrobus Services: Metrobus routes (m1, m2, m3) are faster and more reliable because they use dedicated bus lanes and have fewer stops. Tickets must be purchased before boarding at ticket machines or via the app.
• Peak Hours: Avoid traveling during rush hours (7:30–9:30 AM and 4:30–6:30 PM) if possible, as buses can be crowded and delayed.
• Exact Change: If paying with cash, try to have the exact fare, as drivers may not provide change.
• Cycling and Walking: For short distances, consider walking or cycling. Bristol is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated cycle paths.
• Sunday Services: Bus frequencies are reduced on Sundays and public holidays, so check schedules in advance.

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7. Contact Information and Resources

• First Bus Customer Service: For inquiries, call 0345 646 0707 or visit the First Bus website at www.firstbus.co.uk/bristol.
• Lost Property: Contact the First Bus Travel Shop at Bristol Bus Station.
• TravelWest: A helpful website for planning journeys across the West of England region, including Bristol. Visit www.travelwest.info.

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By following this guide, you should find it easy to navigate Bristol’s bus system and make the most of your time in the city. Safe travels!