Cumberland Council is encouraging residents and visitors to make the most of half term and the summer holidays, with affordable travel across the area, thanks to the Cumberland Go bus network.
Passengers can enjoy single bus journeys for just £3, making it easier than ever to explore Cumberland without the expense of driving and parking. From trips to Hadrian’s Wall and the coast, to visits to family-friendly attractions, there are plenty of great-value days out on offer.
The initiative is part of the council’s ongoing commitment to improving public transport and is supported by £3.55 million in government funding. This investment has helped deliver 18 new and enhanced bus routes across the area, improving connections between Carlisle, West Cumbria and key coastal communities, and making it easier for people to travel for work, education, healthcare and leisure.
Cumberland Council has said that the newly introduced bus services have already seen a growth in its passenger numbers to 32,000 average passenger trips per month which is expected to result in an estimated 384,000 passenger trips per year. This could help remove up to 192,000 car journeys (based upon two passengers sharing) from our roads each year, making a positive contribution to a greener, more sustainable future for Cumberland.
Cumberland Go services provide access to some of the region’s most popular destinations, including Hadrian’s Wall via the HW1 route, which runs daily and links visitors to historic sites such as Birdoswald and the Roman Army Museum.
On the west coast, services including the X7 and 32 connect communities to St Bees beach, Whitehaven and Egremont, offering easy access to the seaside. Visitors can also travel further along the coast to Ravenglass – the gateway to the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, and on to Muncaster Castle, known for its gardens and bird of prey centre. Maryport and the Solway coast are also easily reached, making them ideal for a relaxed family day out.
A range of routes operated by Stagecoach and Reays connect towns including Carlisle, Workington, Whitehaven, Cockermouth and Millom, helping people travel for work, education, healthcare and leisure.
Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, Councillor Denise Rollo, said:
“Cumberland Go is helping to make travel more affordable and accessible for everyone, and the £3 fare cap means people can enjoy a day out without it costing a fortune.
“Whether it’s exploring Hadrian’s Wall, visiting the coast, or enjoying attractions like Muncaster Castle and Ravenglass, these services offer a simple and sustainable way to get around, with routes connecting communities right across Carlisle, West Cumbria and our coastal towns.
“This investment in public transport not only supports our communities but also helps reduce carbon emissions and encourages healthier, greener travel choices. I’d encourage everyone to take advantage of the network; it really is a case of ‘use it or lose it’ when it comes to protecting these vital services for the future.”
