A new bus has been launched across Ullswater to reduce traffic on roads around the lake.
The pilot scheme connects holiday accommodation with “off-lake” locations and will help support carbon reduction targets for the popular corner of the Lake District.
The first couple of services have seen the bus operating at near capacity during peak times.
Regular bus driver Andy Potter said the most popular route so far has undoubtedly been Pooley Bridge to Lowther Castle.
However, the Pooley Bridge to Howtown route has also proved a hit.
Walkers have been taking advantage of the new connection — arriving at Howtown after enjoying the Ullswater Way and then hopping on the Ullswater Bus for a cuppa back in Pooley Bridge.
The 16-seater bus is operated by Stagecoach.
The team behind SITU, or sustainable and integrated transport for Ullswater are examining more sustainable transport in the Ullswater Valley.
The bus connects visitors staying at campsites, hotels and tourism accommodation with destinations such as Pooley Bridge, Howtown, Lowther Castle and Gardens and Ullswater ‘Steamers’.
It also plans to dovetail with onward transport services. For this year, the Ullswater Bus is running as a weekend and bank holiday service.
Michael Firth, chair of SITU, said: “To reduce traffic congestion in the Ullswater valley and contribute to meeting carbon reduction targets, we must encourage people out of their cars. To do that public transport options have to be cost effective, convenient and integrated. The Ullswater Bus connects where people are with where people want to be.
“We are delighted to be working with both Stagecoach and Ullswater Steamers to integrate the minibus with other transport options.”
If successful, it may pave the way for an expanded service next year. The Ullswater Bus operates on Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays until October 29.
It offers the following three routes:
- UB1 – Pooley Bridge – Bennethead – Leeming – return.
- UB2 – Pooley Bridge – Tirril – Askham – Lowther – return.
- UB3 – Pooley Bridge – Howtown – return
Trips are priced at £2 single, £4 return. Concessionary fares are available and under-fives go free.
In addition, combined tickets for Ullswater Steamers and other Stagecoach services will be available and the service will be timed to connect with existing 508 services.
The pilot scheme is another successful project for the Ullswater community. It is a collaboration between SITU working with the Barton and Pooley Bridge Community Fund; local businesses; Ullswater ‘Steamers’ and Stagecoach.
It is supported by Westmorland and Furness Council, Eden Community Fund, the National Lottery Community Fund and Zero Carbon Cumbria Community Climate Grants.
For more information visit https://situcumbria.org.uk/ullswater-bus/
