The Most Popular Bus Company in the UK, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the bus company you think is the most popular!
Updated on May 8, 2024 06:32
Choosing the right bus company can significantly impact your daily commute or occasional travel across the UK. By understanding which operators are favored by the public, you can make more informed decisions about which buses might offer the best service, reliability, and comfort. Ranking the most popular bus companies based on user votes provides a clear picture of public preference and service satisfaction.
This dynamic list allows you to see how your experiences stack up against those of other travelers and to cast your own vote for the bus company you trust the most. Your input helps ensure that the rankings accurately reflect current opinions and can guide new passengers in their choices. Engage with the community by contributing to a valuable resource that benefits all users.
What Is the Most Popular Bus Company in the UK?
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178votesStagecoach is one of the largest bus operators in the UK, with a fleet of over 7,000 buses. They operate in over 100 towns and cities across the UK and are known for their reliable and frequent services.Stagecoach Group is one of the largest bus and coach operators in the UK. It operates both regional and intercity bus services across the country.
- Founded: 1980
- Headquarters: Perth, Scotland
- Fleet Size: Over 8,000 buses and coaches
- Coverage: Operating in over 100 towns and cities
- Passenger Transport Provider of the Year: Multiple awards
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222votes
Oxyman · CC BY 2.5National Express is the largest coach operator in the UK, offering both domestic and international services. They have a reputation for being affordable and reliable, making them a popular choice for both commuters and tourists.National Express is a well-known bus company in the UK that provides long-distance coach services to various destinations across the country. It is considered one of the largest bus operators in the country with a strong presence and a reputation for reliability and comfort.- Extensive Network: National Express operates a vast network of routes, covering major cities and towns across the UK.
- Modern Fleet: The company uses a fleet of modern and well-maintained coaches, ensuring passenger safety and comfort during travel.
- Wi-Fi and Power Outlets: National Express coaches are equipped with Wi-Fi and power outlets, allowing passengers to stay connected and charge their devices.
- Reclining Seats: Passengers can enjoy comfortable journeys with reclining seats, providing relaxation during long-distance trips.
- Onboard Entertainment: National Express offers onboard entertainment systems, including movies and TV shows, to enhance the travel experience.
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318votes
Chris McKenna (Thryduulf) · CC BY-SA 4.0First Group
Moir LockheadFirst Group is a major bus and train operator in the UK, with a focus on providing sustainable transport solutions. They operate in over 40 towns and cities across the UK, and are known for their modern fleet and commitment to customer service.FirstGroup is one of the largest transport operators in the UK and North America. It is a multinational transport group that specializes in bus, train, and tram services. With a strong presence in the UK, it operates bus services in many major cities and towns across the country.- Established: 1986
- Headquarters: Aberdeen, Scotland
- Number of Buses: over 5,700
- Operating Areas: across the United Kingdom
- Services: Intercity, regional, and local bus transportation
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416votesArriva is a multinational transport company that operates bus and train services across Europe, including the UK. They are known for their efficient services and modern fleet, and have won several awards for their commitment to sustainability.Arriva is one of the largest bus companies in the UK offering transport services across the country. It operates extensively in both urban and rural areas, providing a reliable and convenient means of transportation for millions of passengers. With a wide network and fleet of buses, Arriva aims to connect people and communities, making traveling more accessible and sustainable.
- Fleet size: Over 5,000 buses
- Coverage: Operating in multiple regions across the UK
- Routes: Serving hundreds of routes
- Passenger capacity: Varies depending on bus model (ranging from around 40 to over 100 passengers)
- Ticketing options: Offers various ticketing options including contactless, mobile, and smart ticketing
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514votes
Ultra7 · Public domainGo-Ahead is a leading public transport provider in the UK, operating buses, trains, and trams. They are known for their customer-focused approach and commitment to sustainability, and operate in over 30 towns and cities across the UK.The Go-Ahead Group is one of the largest bus operating companies in the United Kingdom. It was established in 1987 and is headquartered in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. The company operates bus services across multiple regions in the UK, including London, Oxford, Brighton, Manchester, and more. Along with bus services, the Go-Ahead Group also operates rail services such as the Thameslink, Southern, and Southeastern franchises. They aim to provide reliable and efficient transportation services to passengers.- Established: 1987
- Headquarters: Newcastle upon Tyne, England
- Operating Regions: Multiple regions across the UK
- Bus Services: Operates bus services in various cities
- Rail Services: Operates rail services including Thameslink, Southern, and Southeastern franchises
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615votesMegabus is a low-cost coach operator that provides services across the UK and Europe. They are known for their affordable fares and modern fleet, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers.Megabus is a prominent bus company in the UK known for offering affordable and convenient long-distance travel options. It operates both in the UK and internationally, connecting major cities and towns. Megabus is recognized for its distinctive blue double-decker buses and competitive pricing.
- Network: Extensive coverage across the UK and Europe
- Price: Budget-friendly fares starting from as low as £1
- Online Booking: Easy online booking system for convenience
- Double-Decker: Spacious double-decker buses for increased capacity
- Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi on board for passenger use
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716votes
GreenAvGeek · CC BY-SA 4.0Lothian Buses
City of Edinburgh CouncilLothian Buses is a bus operator based in Edinburgh, Scotland, that operates a fleet of over 700 buses. They are known for their high-quality services and commitment to sustainability, and have won several awards for their innovative approach to public transport.Lothian Buses is a public transport operator based in Edinburgh, Scotland. It operates bus services in and around Edinburgh and is one of the largest municipal bus companies in the UK.- Fleet Size: Approximately 700 buses
- Routes: Over 50 routes across Edinburgh and surrounding areas
- Passenger Capacity: Ranges from 30 to over 100 passengers per bus
- Ticketing System: Contactless payment and smartcard (Ridacard)
- Low Emission Buses: Part of the fleet comprises low emission vehicles
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83votes
Motacilla · CC BY-SA 4.0Oxford Bus Company is a bus operator based in Oxford, England, that operates a fleet of over 200 buses. They are known for their reliable services and commitment to customer satisfaction, and have won several awards for their innovative approach to public transport.The Oxford Bus Company is a renowned bus company in the United Kingdom, specifically serving the city of Oxford and its surrounding areas. It offers reliable and efficient transportation services to commuters and visitors alike.- Established: 1881
- Headquarters: Oxford, United Kingdom
- Coverage: Oxford city and surrounding areas
- Fleet Size: Over 200 buses
- Services: Regular city bus services, park and ride, airport services, express services
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93votesBrighton & Hove is a bus operator based in Brighton, England, that operates a fleet of over 280 buses. They are known for their high-quality services and commitment to sustainability, and have won several awards for their innovative approach to public transport.Brighton & Hove is a well-known bus company in the UK, operating in and around the city of Brighton and Hove. It provides reliable and affordable bus services to thousands of passengers every day.
- Headquarters: Brighton, UK
- Years in operation: Over 100 years
- Fleet size: Approximately 300 buses
- Service area: Brighton, Hove, and surrounding areas
- Routes: Over 50 different routes
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106votes
Liam Fogarty · CC BY-SA 4.0Trent Barton is a bus operator based in Derbyshire, England, that operates a fleet of over 300 buses. They are known for their customer-focused approach and commitment to sustainability, and have won several awards for their innovative approach to public transport.Trent Barton is a well-known bus company based in the United Kingdom. It was founded in 1913 and has since grown to become one of the most popular transportation options in the region. The company prides itself on providing reliable, efficient, and comfortable bus services to passengers across various routes.- Fleet Size: Over 350 buses
- Coverage: Serving various towns and cities in the United Kingdom
- Frequency: Regular and frequent bus schedules
- Ticket Options: Multiple ticket types available, including day passes and season tickets
- Customer Service: Dedicated customer support and information services
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Ranking factors for popular bus company
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Coverage and route networkThe extent to which the bus company serves different areas in the UK, including urban, suburban, and rural areas, as well as the number of routes it operates.
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Punctuality and reliabilityThe ability of the bus company to consistently operate its buses according to published schedules, and minimize delays and cancellations.
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Frequency of serviceThe number of buses per hour or day on a given route, making it easy and convenient for passengers to travel when they need to.
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Affordability and pricingThe cost of fares and ticket options available, including discounts for students, seniors, and other groups.
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Comfort and amenitiesThe quality of the buses, including cleanliness, seating, air conditioning, WiFi, and other amenities that impact passenger comfort during the journey.
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AccessibilityThe ability of the bus company to cater to passengers with disabilities, including providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and priority seating.
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Customer serviceThe quality of interactions between the bus company's staff and passengers, including the helpfulness of drivers and the availability of customer support in case of issues.
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Safety recordThe safety record of the bus company in terms of accidents, incidents, and adherence to safety regulations.
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Environmental impactThe bus company's commitment to using environmentally friendly vehicles and practices, such as using hybrid or electric buses, and promoting sustainable transport options.
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Reputation and customer satisfactionPublic opinion and customer reviews of the bus company, reflecting overall satisfaction with the services provided.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular bus company in the UK. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or bus company is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 2823 views
- 185 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each bus company once every 24 hours. The rank of each bus company is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular bus company in the uk
The UK is known for its extensive network of bus companies that provide reliable and affordable transportation services to commuters and travelers alike. With a plethora of options available, it can become overwhelming to choose the most popular bus company in the country. However, through extensive research and analysis of customer feedback, it has been determined that certain companies like National Express, Stagecoach, and Megabus dominate the market. These companies offer a range of services including long-distance travel, express routes, and local transport options. Whether you're a tourist exploring the UK or a local resident traveling to work, these bus companies are sure to provide you with a comfortable and efficient journey.
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