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Public Transportation

Getting Around Manchester: Guide To Public Transportation

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Like London, Manchester has a vast and reliable public transportation system. Known as Transport for Greater Manchester, or TfGM, the system connects the city's central part with its outskirts via tram, bus, and train. The tram, a light rail system, is called Manchester Metrolink and is the primary public transportation method in Manchester, connecting 99 total stops.

Manchester is actually quite sprawling when you consider the suburbs and surrounding areas. Still, the trams and buses connect most places, which means it's unnecessary to rent a car when visiting the city. Here's what you should know about using public transportation in Manchester.

How To Ride the Manchester Metrolink

Many commuters and visitors in Manchester use the Manchester Metrolink, which extends 65 miles and includes 99 stops. It's the longest and most extensive light rail in the U.K. It can often be quicker than driving, thanks to traffic in the city.

• Fares: Metrolink has four zones, each with its own price structure. Single journeys in Zone 1 start at 1.40 pounds for an adult. If you plan to move around the city a lot during your stay, opt for a single-day travel card or a seven-day travel card, which can save you a lot of money. A single adult ticket traveling from Zone 1 to Zone 4 starts at 3.80 pounds. Certain groups are entitled to a discount, including children, 16-18 year olds and families traveling together.
• How to Pay: Use a contactless credit or debit card or the mobile ticket app to tap in and out of your journey without needing to buy a separate ticket. There are also traditional ticket machines at each tram stop. Those staying longer should opt for a System One Travelcard , which allows the use of the bus, train, and tram around Manchester for one, seven, or 28 days.
• Routes and Hours: During the week and on Saturdays, Metrolink runs from 6 a.m. until midnight, while on Sundays, it runs from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. The frequency of the trams varies depending on the time of day. There are different lines on Metrolink, all of which connect in central Manchester. Check the transport map for your best route.
• Service Alerts: Manchester Metrolink occasionally has delays or service outages. Stay in touch with its current status on the TfGM website , which has live updates for all routes. The website also lists any upcoming service interruptions.
• Transfers: Transfers between tram lines are easy to do, especially as most of the routes intersect at various points. Ticket prices are determined by zone, so it doesn't cost anything additional to change lines. Those using a contactless card to pay don't need to tap in and out when transferring trams.
• Accessibility: All Metrolink trams and its tram stops are wheelchair accessible. Those using a mobility scooter will need a valid mobility scooter permit to bring a scooter on one of the Metrolink trams. Each tram has a designated area for wheelchairs and scooters and designated seats for those who have trouble standing. More information on Metrolink's accessibility is available on their website .

Riding the TfGM Buses

TfGM also has a range of bus lines that connect greater Manchester in addition to Metrolink. There are over 100 different routes, so chances are there's a bus in the direction you want to go. Many of the routes, including buses to Manchester Airport, also run a limited overnight schedule. Various companies run some of the buses in Manchester, so check online when planning a journey.

• Fares: Tickets for the buses are available as single journey tickets or bus passes, which are the best option if you plan to make multiple trips. Tickets can be purchased on board the bus from the driver with cash, but it's easiest to use a contactless credit card. System One Travelcards can also be used on most buses.
• Service Alerts: Any upcoming planned service changes can be found on the TfGM website .

Free TfGM Buses

Manchester offers three free bus routes in the city center. The routes include stops at Manchester Victoria Station, Manchester Piccadilly Station, the Northern Quarter, Chinatown, and the Medieval Quarter. The buses vary in times, but most run between 6:30 a.m. and 11:30 pm., with limited hours on Sundays and holidays. Check the map and timetable online to plan your trip.

Using the Local Trains

Several train companies operate out of Manchester, connecting the city to England, Wales, and Scotland. Trains are available to all of Manchester's suburbs and Manchester Airport, and many Metrolink tram lines connect with the local trains. To travel to London, hop on a train at Manchester Piccadilly station to London Euston. Use the Trainline website or mobile app to find the best routes and times and to buy tickets.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps

Manchester has numerous taxi services and mini-cab companies, which can be pre-booked online or hailed on the street. Uber also operates in Manchester, which can be used via its mobile app. Uber is often cheaper than a taxi, especially when going to and from the airport.

Manchester is a great city for cycling, and many programs encourage bike use. There are many traffic-free cycle paths, as well as dedicated cycling lanes in busier areas. Look for Cycle Hubs around town to park your bike safely. Those who want to rent a bike while in Manchester can pick from numerous companies, but some of the most popular include Manchester Bike Hire and Brompton Dock .

Renting a Car

While some American travelers coming to the U.K. may not want to rent a car, it's easy to rent one when in Manchester, especially if you plan to leave the city for various day-trips. Car rental shops can be found both in the city center, including Hertz and Sixt, and at Manchester Airport, which has various rental companies to choose from. Be sure to add the GPS to your rental, as some of the roads in England can be confusing, and do a little preparation in terms of what various street signs and road markings mean. It's not recommended to drive around central Manchester, but a car is a good option if your itinerary includes other destinations around Northern England.

Tips for Getting Around Manchester

Manchester has a relatively easy public transportation system, but it can still be confusing, particularly if you're not used to big city public transport.

• Holidays and weekends can mean limited transportation options. Roadworks and improvements to Metrolink often occur on the weekends, so check ahead of time if you need to get somewhere urgent. On Christmas, most public transportation shuts down completely, so opt for a taxi or Uber. Services are also limited on Boxing Day.
• If you are traveling before or after a Manchester United or Manchester City game, the Metrolink and buses may be more crowded than usual. Try to plan your journey around the crowds of fans.
• While Metrolink shuts down at night, many buses continue running, and there are also always taxis and Ubers available. Still, if you don't want to splurge on a taxi and want to stay as safe as possible, check the last tram time online, so you don't miss it.
• When exploring the central part of Manchester, including the Northern Quarter and the museums, consider walking. Manchester isn't particularly rainy, and the temperature is usually moderate, so a good pair of shoes and Google Maps will get you a long way.

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Video Transcript

Introducing The Bee Network

Our vision for an integrated London-style transport system which will join together buses, trams, cycling and walking and rail.

Let’s get moving

Find out how we can help you to move more.

Whether it's a trip to the shops or the school run, there’s plenty of help to get you started.

Ride a bike

Whether you haven't ridden in years or ride all the time, we've got courses, support and tips to get you moving.

Go for a walk

Find new walks and discover the benefits. Whether you are going for a potter or a stomp, walking makes you feel good.

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From just 50p to unlock and then 5p per minute, our new Starling Bank Bikes are ready to roll whenever you need them. Save money with minute bundles, too. Download the app today and get riding. 

Cycling and Walking routes: Where you live.

All over Greater Manchester's 10 boroughs, we're building the future.

See what's happening near you

Making Greater Manchester a great place to walk and cycle

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• Public transport

Free travel on the tram for members of the Armed Forces

Current members, veterans and cadets can also travel on bee network buses on armstice day and remembrance sunday.

Members of the Regular and Reserve Services can travel for free on Metrolink when carrying their MOD90 card:

• after 9.30am Monday to Friday and all day on weekends and public holidays.
• all day on Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday.

Armstice Day and Remembrance Sunday - 11 & 12 November 2023

Veterans who carry their veterans badge or MOD90 card can travel for free on Metrolink and Bee Network bus services all day on Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday.

Cadets travelling in uniform can travel for free on Metrolink and Bee Network bus services all day on Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday.

Free travel on Metrolink and Bee Network bus services is part of TfGM's commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant .+

Travel included with Co-op Live tickets

Co-op Live ticket holders can travel on the tram and new city centre shuttle buses.

Say yellow to the Bee Network

Buses in Oldham, Rochdale and parts of Bury, Salford and north Manchester joined the Bee Network on 24 March.

New sponsor: Starling Bank Bikes

We’re delighted to welcome Starling Bank on board as the new sponsors of our bike hire scheme.

Manchester City Matchday Buses

We've teamed up with Manchester City to launch a large-scale bus trial helping fans from across Greater Manchester and nearby areas to travel to and from the Etihad Stadium on a matchday.

Rate your journey

We want to hear your views to help us deliver a better Bee Network for Greater Manchester.

Planned engineering works on Metrolink

Visit our dedicated webpage to find out how the works could affect your journeys.

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Create your smart card account

Create an account and order a Bee Card online. Your card should arrive in 5-7 working days. With your account, you can buy tickets and travelcards to load onto your Bee Card for travel on trams and buses in Greater Manchester. You can link other smart cards to your account, including; igo, Our Pass, Cycle Hub, a TfGM concessionary travel pass, or a get me there card.

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TfGM issues Metrolink disruption update as repair work continues

Two tram lines remain part-suspended

• 09:08, 12 JUN 2023

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Metrolink services will remain disrupted throughout today due to overhead line damage, Transport for Greater Manchester has confirmed.

Trams on multiple lines were suspended yesterday (Sunday) due to 'severe' damage to the overhead line at Victoria. Although all tram lines are now operating, the Bury and Rochdale via Oldham line remain part-suspended today.

On the Bury line, services will run between Bury and Abraham Moss. On the Rochdale via Oldham line, services will run between Monsall and Rochdale town centre.

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Currently no services are calling at Victoria, Shudehill, Market Street and Exchange Square. The East Didsbury line is only operating as far as Deansgate Castlefield, the Manchester Airport line is only operating as far as Firswood and the Trafford Park line is only operating as far as Cornbrook.

A number of service changes are expected to remain in place throughout the day, with those heading to the Manchester City parade later advised to plan ahead. TfGM said extra shuttle buses and staff were put in place last night as thousands headed home from Parklife festival and Soccer Aid.

In a statement, a TfGM spokesperson said: "There is minor disruption to Metrolink services today (Monday 12 June) due to severe overhead line damage at Victoria on Sunday, which Metrolink technicians are working hard to resolve as quickly as possible. All Metrolink lines are operating, but there are expected to be a number of service changes in operation throughout the day.

"TfGM would like to apologise for any disruption that passengers may face on the Metrolink network today. Passengers are advised to check TfGM’s website for the latest information and travel updates, including ticket acceptance on local bus services."

The spokesperson added: "Sunday saw over 120,000 passengers on the move across the city, travelling to and from two major events – Parklife and Soccer Aid. Following the overhead line damage, contingency plans were put in place, including additional shuttle buses and extra staff on hand across the network, which kept disruption to a minimum for those attending.

"Passengers travelling to and from the city centre to watch the Manchester City Parade today are advised to plan ahead, and can find out more about their journey on TfGM’s dedicated website."

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• Most Recent

NEW Universal Studios Tour 60th Anniversary Glamor Tram Popcorn Bucket

T he Universal Studios Tour is celebrating its 60th anniversary, and guests can find a new Glamor Tram popcorn bucket as part of the merchandise lineup.

Glamor Tram Popcorn Bucket – $43.99

It includes free refills on the day of purchase.

The bucket is shaped like the tram in red and white. The roof is striped with a scalloped awning. The side reads, “Universal Studios Glamor Tram.”

Woody Woodpecker is behind the wheel.

It comes with a detachable lanyard featuring the Universal Studios Hollywood logo and artwork of the globe and entrance arch. Art on the side of the bucket gives the illusion of guests aboard the tram.

The license plate reads “071564,” for the date of the first Studio Tour — July 15, 1964.

The Studio Tour itself got a few updates for the anniversary — check out our photos and video of the experience.

For more Universal Studios news from around the world, follow Universal Parks News Today on Twitter , Facebook , and Instagram . For Disney Parks news, visit WDWNT .

The post NEW Universal Studios Tour 60th Anniversary Glamor Tram Popcorn Bucket appeared first on WDW News Today .