Liverpool
๐๏ธ
Ticketing
Sections
1. Types of Tickets Available
Liverpool offers a variety of ticketing options to suit different travel needs, whether you're a visitor or a resident. These include single tickets, day passes, and longer-term travel cards. Here's a breakdown:
a. Single Tickets
- Bus: Single tickets are available for one-way journeys on buses. Prices vary depending on the operator and distance but typically range from ยฃ2.20 to ยฃ3.00.
- Train: Single train tickets are priced based on the distance and zones traveled. For example, a short journey within Liverpool city center may cost around ยฃ2.50.
- Ferry: A single journey on the famous Mersey Ferry costs ยฃ3.50 for adults.
b. Return Tickets
- Available for both trains and ferries, return tickets are often cheaper than buying two single tickets. For example, a return ferry ticket costs ยฃ5.00 for adults.
c. Day Tickets
- Merseytravel Day Saver: Unlimited travel on buses, trains, and ferries within specific zones for one day. Prices start at ยฃ5.70 for adults.
- Arriva or Stagecoach Day Tickets: Unlimited travel on buses operated by these companies. Prices are around ยฃ5.00 for adults.
- Saveaway Ticket: A popular option for visitors, offering unlimited travel on buses, trains, and ferries across Merseyside for one day. Prices start at ยฃ4.40 for off-peak travel.
d. Weekly and Monthly Tickets
- Merseytravel Weekly and Monthly Passes: These passes allow unlimited travel on buses, trains, and ferries within selected zones. Weekly passes start at ยฃ19.80, and monthly passes start at ยฃ70.00.
- Operator-Specific Passes: Arriva and Stagecoach offer weekly and monthly bus passes for unlimited travel on their services.
e. Family and Group Tickets
- Family Saveaway: A cost-effective option for families, allowing unlimited travel for up to 2 adults and 3 children for one day. Prices start at ยฃ13.00.
- Group Tickets: Some operators offer group discounts for 3 or more people traveling together.
f. Concessionary Tickets
- Discounts are available for children, students, and seniors. For example:
- Children under 5 travel free.
- Children aged 5-15 can purchase discounted tickets (e.g., a child Saveaway starts at ยฃ2.20).
- Seniors and disabled residents with a Merseytravel pass can travel for free on buses and trains within Merseyside.
2. Costs
Ticket prices vary depending on the type of ticket, zones covered, and the operator. Below is a general guide to costs:
- Single Bus Ticket: ยฃ2.20โยฃ3.00
- Single Train Ticket: ยฃ2.50โยฃ5.00 (depending on zones)
- Day Saver (Bus Only): ยฃ5.00โยฃ5.70
- Saveaway (All Modes): ยฃ4.40 (off-peak)
- Weekly Pass: ยฃ19.80+
- Monthly Pass: ยฃ70.00+
3. Where and How to Purchase Tickets
Tickets can be purchased through various methods, making it convenient for travelers:
a. Online
- Tickets can be purchased via the Merseytravel website or the websites of specific operators like Arriva and Stagecoach.
- Mobile apps such as the Arriva Bus App or Stagecoach Bus App allow you to buy and store tickets digitally.
b. At Stations
- Train tickets can be purchased at ticket machines or ticket offices at train stations.
- Ferry tickets are available at the Mersey Ferry terminals.
c. Onboard
- Bus drivers sell single and day tickets onboard. Note that exact change is often required.
- Ferry tickets can also be purchased onboard, but itโs recommended to buy them at the terminal to avoid delays.
d. Retail Outlets
- Many local shops and newsagents sell Merseytravel tickets, including Saveaway and Day Saver tickets.
e. Smartcards
- The Walrus Card is Liverpoolโs smartcard system. You can load Saveaway, Weekly, or Monthly passes onto a Walrus Card, which can be purchased at Merseytravel centers or online.
4. Procedures for Using Public Transportation
Hereโs how to use your ticket on Liverpoolโs public transport:
a. Buses
- Board the bus and show your ticket or Walrus Card to the driver.
- If youโre paying onboard, inform the driver of your destination and pay the fare.
b. Trains
- If you have a paper ticket, insert it into the ticket barriers at the station.
- For Walrus Cards, tap the card on the reader at the barriers.
c. Ferries
- Show your ticket or Walrus Card at the terminal before boarding.
5. Local Considerations and Tips
- Plan Your Zones: Liverpool and Merseyside are divided into travel zones. Make sure your ticket covers all the zones you plan to travel through.
- Off-Peak Travel: Saveaway tickets are cheaper during off-peak hours (after 9:30 AM on weekdays and all day on weekends).
- Check Operator-Specific Tickets: If youโre only using one bus operator (e.g., Arriva or Stagecoach), their day or weekly tickets may be cheaper than Merseytravel passes.
- Use the Merseytravel Journey Planner: This online tool helps you plan your journey and find the best ticket options.
- Keep Your Ticket Handy: Ticket inspectors frequently check tickets on trains and ferries. Fines apply if youโre caught without a valid ticket.
- Consider the Walrus Card: Itโs a convenient option for frequent travelers, as it eliminates the need for paper tickets.
6. Additional Resources
- Merseytravel Website: www.merseytravel.gov.uk
- Arriva Bus App: Available on iOS and Android for bus tickets and schedules.
- Stagecoach Bus App: Available on iOS and Android for bus tickets and schedules.
- Mersey Ferries: www.merseyferries.co.uk
By understanding the ticketing system and planning ahead, you can navigate Liverpoolโs public transportation with ease. Whether youโre exploring the cityโs iconic landmarks or commuting daily, thereโs a ticketing option to suit your needs.