How to catch the bus

We've put together this handy guide to help you when travelling by bus.

Planning ahead

Getting on the bus

Try to get to the bus stop 5 minutes before it’s actually due – don’t forget you can track the bus in real time using our app.
Put your hand out clearly and in good time to let the driver know that you want to board.
Allow people to get off the bus before you try to get on – why not get your app or payment method ready while you wait?
If you’re paying by contactless, tell the driver which ticket you’d like, then place your card on the machine when they’re ready
When waiting for the bus at night, use your phone screen light to attract the driver’s attention

Travelling on the bus

Find a seat and enjoy the journey – if it’s a double decker, try to sit upstairs if possible and leave downstairs for those less able
Remember to be kind – if you’re sitting in a wheelchair or buggy bay, please give up these seats if either a wheelchair or buggy tries to board
If the bus is getting full and there are no seats, stand towards the rear of the bus – it’ll help people get on/off quicker, and allow more people on too!
Be considerate to fellow customers – please don’t vape or smoke, don’t eat hot food, drink uncovered hot drinks or open alcohol
If you’re listening to music or watching a movie, please do it using headphones – your taste in music might not be everyone else’s
When taking a call, please be respectful of other customers, use headphones rather than loudspeaker

Getting off the bus

Many of our buses have next stop announcements, listen out for your stop being called if you’re unsure where to get off
Press the bell once to let the driver know that you want to get off – no need to worry if someone else has already pressed it
Please help us keep our buses tidy, take any rubbish with you when you leave
Don’t forget to thank the driver when you get off the bus

Hail and Ride

In some areas where there are no physical bus stops, we operate a ‘Hail and Ride’ system.

Getting on the bus

Stand in a safe location, away from a junction if possible and put your hand out clearly for the bus to stop.
If there are a few people waiting, please try to stand together.

Getting off the bus