Summer buses to tourist attractions announced
Durham County CouncilThree new bus routes serving a county's tourist attractions will run on weekends and bank holidays this summer, it has been announced.
The routes will connect Durham city centre with sites including Beamish, Raby Castle, Bowes Museum and Locomotion and will run between 23 May and 31 August.
Funded by the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, a single adult journey will cost £2.50 and people under 21 will pay £1 as part of its 'Mayor's Fares' programme. Children under 11 will also travel for free during the school holidays as part of the Kids Go Free initiative.
The 873 to High Force waterfall will run twice a day, while the 874 to Beamish Museum and 875 to Locomotion will run three times.
Three services, operated by Northstar, were announced:
- 873 The Durham Dales Explorer - serving Durham City, Raby Castle, Barnard Castle, Bowes Museum, High Force
- 874 The Time Traveller Line - serving Durham City, Ushaw, Beamish Museum
- 875 The Tracks Through Line - serving Durham City, Shildon, Locomotion
Labour North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said the routes would make it easier for people go on days out without needing to rely on a car.
"I'm delighted we at the strategic mayoral authority have been able to fund them, helping more families, residents and visitors explore what our region has to offer, support local tourism and enjoy simpler travel by bus," she said.
Durham County Council's cabinet member for leisure, high streets, tourism and regeneration Karen Allison added: "This will no doubt help to supercharge our economy."
All buses will be accessible, with dogs also allowed on board.
An adult day ticket is also available in County Durham for £6, allowing unlimited bus travel, while passengers can also purchase a region-wide adult day ticket for bus and Metro travel for £7.50. A region-wide day ticket for young people costs £3.
