Leicestershire County Council Introduces Free Festive Bus Routes to Tourist Destinations

Complimentary travel for bus passengers is now available on 12 festive services launched by Leicestershire County Council. These temporary routes are scheduled to operate throughout December, connecting to Christmas markets and various tourist attractions within the county, including Conkers and Twycross Zoo. Operators will provide these services under the Leicestershire Buses initiative, with funding secured through the Bus Service Improvement Plan. According to the council, these services aim to enhance accessibility to locations across the county, aligning with its objective to promote public bus transportation. Among the new temporary offerings is a service connecting to Gates Garden Centre, situated in Cold Overton, close to Oakham. This particular service is scheduled for operation on December 6, 13, and 20, all of which fall on Fridays. Leicestershire Buses has collaborated with Ausden Clark and Gates to facilitate this service, originating from Melton Mowbray and Oakham. The county council also noted that passengers presenting a valid voucher will be eligible for a complimentary hot drink at the garden centre’s restaurants. Ozzy O’Shea, the cabinet member for transport at the county council, stated: “The aim of all our bus improvement plans is to keep people connected and to support local communities – and the festive season is a perfect time to do this.” He further added: “It’s another great example of our Enhanced Partnership with operators working collectively under our new Leicestershire Buses brand and shows how grant funding from central government can benefit residents and boost bus travel.” The seasonal route destined for Conkers is scheduled for December 7, 14, and 21, departing from Whitwick and making stops at locations including Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Ibstock, and Coalville en route. The service to Twycross Zoo will operate on December 8, 15, and 22, commencing from Hinckley and passing through villages like Desford and Market Bosworth. Comprehensive details regarding the services, including schedules and stops, are accessible via this link. For updates, follow BBC Leicester on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or by WhatsApp at 0808 100 2210. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available for review.