Getting about in Gloucestershire

Travelling Tips

  • Look after yourself - Plan ahead - make sure you can get back.
  • Different operators will have different booking systems so check them in advance.
  • Give yourself plenty of time if you need to change trains or buses (at least 15 minutes).
  • Be -?streetwise' on your journey and choose busy places and well-lit streets; cross the road if someone appears to be following you and always ask for help from porters or conductors.
  • Check you have all your belongings with you. Stations and operators will have a lost property section if the worst happens. Keep tickets handy but safe and keep a check on your purse or wallet at all times.
  • Let someone know what time you are expecting to arrive. If possible travel together in a group or with a friend.
  • Think about your journey before you set out: Why are you making this journey? Is it work, school, shopping or to meet friends? Do you need to plan ahead so you are not late for work or college? Will you be able to carry shopping home? Do your friends know where to meet you and could you get home alone if you lose them?
  • Check websites, leaflets and booking offices for information.

Public Transport in Rural Areas

If you live in rural Gloucestershire you will know that the most frequent public transport services and majority of the network are in the urban areas. However, there are several bus companies who operate in rural areas:

Perrets: 01242 820244

Castleways: 01242 602949 01242 603715

Marchants: 01242 257714

Pullhams: 01451 820369

Rail enquiries

For all train times and routes call the National Rail Enquiry Line on 08457 48 49 50.

www.nationalrail.co.uk

Bus and Coach Services

You can contact Traveline on 0870 608 2 608 for details of all bus services in Gloucestershire.

Timetables:

Transport guides and timetables are available from local train and bus stations, and local Tourist Information Centres.

Travelling Cheap

Young Persons Railcard: You're young, you're a person, so apply!

Anyone aged 16-25 is eligible for a railcard and it will give you savings on most journeys at weekends, bank holidays and Monday to Friday (with some restrictions). It costs £20 per year and you'll make a saving of a 1/3 on most journeys. You can pick up an application form from any manned railway station, or you can apply to the local rail company and they will send the form in the post. You will need to have one passport size photo and proof of your age to apply. Go to www.youngpersons-railcard.co.uk for more information.

Discounts: Value for money discounted tickets are offered by individual train and bus companies.

Carrying Bikes on trains or buses: This is free on some trains and buses, but you must check in advance as spaces are limited.

Bus Links: These allow cheaper bus journeys from your destination. You must ask at the station when buying your ticket, not at the end of the journey, to get the discount bus ticket. Leaflets are available at bus stations, or you can ask when buying your ticket. Or visit www.travelinesw.com for information on travelling around Gloucestershire and the rest of the South West.

Other Travel Options

Cycle Hire - You can hire bicycles to get around from:

Compass Holidays

01242 250642

Hartwells Cycle Hire

01451 820405

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