There are a wide range of Public Transport services available in the UK. As a payng passenger you are entitled to certain rights but if you evade paying the appropriate fare you are may be liable to a fine or prosecution.
Public transport
Public transport services in the UK (bus, train, underground) vary from region to region and town to town.
Information on transport provided in your area can normally be found on your local and county council websites.
To locate your local council follow this link.
Transport Focus
Transport Focus is the independent watchdog for transport users.
A comprehensive list of UK transport FAQ's is available at this link.
Planning your Journey
Traveline is a partnership of transport companies, local authorities and passenger groups which have come together to enable you to plan your journey from door to door by bus, rail, coach and ferry across Great Britain and view your journey on a map. It allows you to choose the way that best suits you for making your journey using the most up to date information from around the UK for all transport companies.
To plan your journey follow this link.
Other resources to help plan your journey are available at the following links:
- AA route planner (for car journey planning)
- Cyclestreets (for cycle journey planning)
- Google maps (for public transport and car journey planning)
- National Rail enquiries (for train journey planning)
- RAC route planner (for car journey planning)
- Royal Mail (find a postcode or address)
- TfL plan a journey (for public transport in London)
- Traveline (for public transport)
- Walkit.com (for planning walks)
Passenger Rights
An explanation of your rights when travelling on public transport including how to claim compensation for delayed or cancelled journeys, accidents and complaining about bus and train services are available at the following links:
Concessionary fares
If you are disabled or above/below a certain age you may be entitled to concessionary fares.
Information on how to apply for concessionary fares for older and disabled passengers is available at the following links:
A guide "How to save money on public transport" is available from stepchange.org.
Fare Evasion
Passengers using public transport may be liable to pay a fine or to prosecution in the following circumstances.
- If you travel on a train or bus without a valid ticket or permit to travel
- If you travel in a class of accommodation for which the ticket is not valid
- If you are present in a compulsory ticket area without a valid ticket or permit to travel
Find out what happens if you get caught on Public transport without a valid ticket:
- On a Train
- Transport for London (Bus, Tube, DLR, London Overground and TfL Rail)
Community Transport
Community transport services are run by voluntary organisations and local authorities and can offer transport door to door when you book in advance.
The Community Transport Association (CTA) is a national charity that represents and supports providers of community transport.
Search for services available in your area at the following links:
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