Leeds

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Ticketing

Important details about purchasing and using tickets for various modes of transportation.

Sections

1. Overview of Public Transportation in Leeds

Leeds does not have a tram or metro system, so public transport is primarily reliant on:

  • Buses: Operated by several companies, with First Bus being the largest provider.
  • Trains: Leeds Railway Station is a major hub, connecting the city to local and national destinations.

2. Types of Tickets Available

Bus Tickets

  1. Single Tickets:

    • Valid for one journey on a specific route.
    • Prices vary depending on the distance but typically range from ยฃ1.50 to ยฃ3.50.

  2. Day Tickets:

    • Unlimited travel for one day.
    • Example: First Bus Day Ticket costs around ยฃ5.20 for adults.

  3. Weekly Tickets:

    • Unlimited travel for seven consecutive days.
    • Example: First Bus Week Ticket costs approximately ยฃ20.

  4. Monthly Tickets:

    • Unlimited travel for a calendar month.
    • Example: First Bus Month Ticket costs around ยฃ70.

  5. Group Tickets:

    • Designed for families or groups traveling together.
    • Example: First Bus Group Day Ticket (up to 5 people) costs around ยฃ9.

  6. West Yorkshire MetroCard:

    • A multi-operator ticket valid on buses and trains across West Yorkshire.
    • Prices vary depending on zones and duration (e.g., weekly, monthly, or annual).

Train Tickets

  1. Single and Return Tickets:

    • For one-way or round-trip journeys.
    • Prices depend on the distance and time of travel (off-peak is cheaper).

  2. Season Tickets:

    • Weekly, monthly, or annual passes for regular commuters.
    • Example: A monthly season ticket from Leeds to Bradford costs around ยฃ100.

  3. Railcards:

    • Discount cards offering up to 1/3 off train fares.
    • Examples: 16-25 Railcard, Senior Railcard, Two Together Railcard, etc.
    • Cost: ยฃ30 per year.

  4. DayRover Tickets:

    • Unlimited travel on buses and trains within West Yorkshire for one day.
    • Cost: ยฃ8.20 for adults, ยฃ4.10 for children.

3. How to Purchase Tickets

Bus Tickets:

  • Onboard: You can buy single and day tickets directly from the driver. Contactless payment (card or mobile) is widely accepted, but cash is also an option (exact change preferred).
  • Mobile Apps:
    • First Bus App: Purchase and store digital tickets for First Bus services.
    • MCard App: Buy and manage MetroCards for multi-operator travel.
  • Retail Outlets: MetroCards and other passes can be purchased at bus stations, travel centers, or Payzone outlets.

Train Tickets:

  • Online:
    • National Rail website or app.
    • Trainline app (convenient but may include booking fees).
  • Ticket Machines: Available at all train stations.
  • Ticket Counters: Staffed ticket offices at major stations like Leeds Railway Station.
  • Mobile Apps:
    • Northern Rail app (for local train services).
    • Trainline app (for all UK train services).
  • Railcards: Apply online or at train stations.

4. Procedures for Using Public Transport

Buses:

  1. Boarding:
    • Check the route number and destination displayed on the front of the bus.
    • Signal the driver by raising your hand as the bus approaches.
  2. Payment:
    • Tap your contactless card/device on the reader or show your mobile ticket to the driver.
    • If paying cash, inform the driver of your destination and provide the exact fare.
  3. Exiting:
    • Press the stop button in advance to alert the driver.
    • Exit through the rear doors where possible.

Trains:

  1. Before Boarding:
    • Check the departure board for platform information.
    • Ensure you have a valid ticket before boarding (penalty fares apply for traveling without a ticket).
  2. During Travel:
    • Keep your ticket handy for inspection.
  3. Exiting:
    • Use your ticket to pass through automated barriers at your destination.

5. Apps and Websites for Navigation and Ticketing

  1. First Bus App:

    • For purchasing bus tickets and tracking live bus times.
    • Available on iOS and Android.

  2. MCard App:

    • For buying and managing MetroCards.
    • Available on iOS and Android.

  3. National Rail App:

    • For train schedules, ticket purchases, and live updates.

  4. Trainline App:

    • Comprehensive app for train tickets across the UK.

  5. Google Maps:

    • Useful for planning routes and checking public transport options.

  6. Moovit:

    • A public transport app offering real-time navigation and route planning.

6. Costs and Discounts

  • Children: Reduced fares for children under 16. Under-5s travel free on buses and trains.
  • Students: Discounted tickets are available with valid student ID or through schemes like the 16-25 Railcard.
  • Seniors: Free bus travel for residents over 60 with a Senior Pass (apply through the West Yorkshire Metro website).
  • Disabled Passengers: Free or discounted travel for eligible individuals with a Disabled Pass.

7. Local Considerations and Tips

  1. Plan Ahead:

    • Use apps like Google Maps or Moovit to check routes and schedules in advance.
    • Leeds buses can sometimes experience delays during peak hours, so allow extra time.

  2. Contactless Payment:

    • Most buses and trains accept contactless payment, making it a convenient option for visitors.

  3. Multi-Operator Tickets:

    • If you plan to use both buses and trains, consider a MetroCard or DayRover ticket for flexibility and savings.

  4. Peak vs. Off-Peak Travel:

    • Train fares are significantly cheaper during off-peak hours (after 9:30 AM on weekdays and all day on weekends).

  5. Accessibility:

    • Most buses and trains in Leeds are wheelchair accessible. Check with operators for specific accessibility features.

  6. Customer Service:

    • For assistance, visit the Leeds City Bus Station or Leeds Railway Station, where staff can provide guidance.

By understanding the ticketing options, costs, and procedures outlined above, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate Leedsโ€™ public transportation system efficiently and confidently. Safe travels!