bus journey planner manchester

Plan a journey (Beta version)

Journey planner, travel resources.

• News and media
• Commercial opportunities
• Procurement
• Privacy policy
• Accessibility statement
• Modern slavery statement
• Help and contact us
• Where to find us
• Safe and secure travel

Bee Network 4+

Transport for greater manchester.

• #60 in Travel
• 1.8 • 509 Ratings

Screenshots

Description.

Say yellow to the Bee Network app, brought to you by Transport for Greater Manchester. You can find your nearest stop, get live departure times, track your bus, plan a journey and buy and use tram tickets. Use the Bee Network app to: • Track bus live locations • Find your nearest stops and departure times, save your favourites for quick access • Plan your journey on public transport or by active travel • Buy and display tram, bus and multi modal tickets • View active, purchased and expired tickets • Rate your journey BUS TRACKING View the live locations of buses on a map and track them along the route to your stop. You can also see the locations of subsequent buses and where they are currently are on the route. LIVE TRAVEL UPDATES Get live departure times for bus, tram and train. Find your nearest stop, select it as a ‘favourite’ and stay updated. JOURNEY PLANNING You can plan public transport journeys on buses, trams and trains as well as active travel via cycling, cycle hire and walking. Filter results by travel mode or step-free access. Park and ride options are provided when available. We will let you know the right ticket for your journey and either give you the option to buy it in the app or provide you with pricing information and instructions for other retail channels. BUY, SAVE AND DISPLAY TICKETS FROM THE APP You can buy selected bus and tram tickets on the Bee Network app, including our new Bee AnyBus+Tram tickets and use the app to display or scan your ticket when boarding or for inspection. You can now pay easily with Apple Pay and Google Pay as well as the option to save your payment details, to make it quicker and easier when you’re buying your tickets. RATE YOUR JOURNEY Let us know about your bus and tram journeys in Greater Manchester. We will use your feedback to shape the Bee Network. For further information go to beenetwork.com Please note that you must have a valid ticket to travel on public transport otherwise you are liable for a Penalty Fare. If you are using the app to buy and display tickets for travel, make sure your phone has enough battery to display your ticket for the duration of your journey. Bee Network: Powered by Transport for Greater Manchester. Every journey. Every day.

Version 1.1.2

We’ve made a variety of performance, accessibility, and stability improvements.

Ratings and Reviews

509 Ratings

Stop misleading about live departure times

I can see the potential here but please stop pretending the bus times are live as they are just preplanned timetables and the 511 timetable is 20 minutes out. If your bus is only every hour it might as well not exist if you don't know when it's going to be due. I feel sorry for any tourists using this app when it says "due now" and they have to wait another half an hour in the rain. It's currently an embarrassment to the region. It would really help if the politicians pushing this actually tried using it so they could see the problems and get it sorted instead of preplanned photo ops on a nice sunny day. The Diamond bus app had live bus positions so you could see where your bus was and when to set off. At the moment the app is redundant as TFGM website's bus timetables are more accurate. I really hope live bus info makes it into the app soon so that the public can get behind it and use public transport more easily. I've started getting taxis now because I never know when my bus is due.

Developer Response ,

Thanks for your feedback. Hopefully you'll be pleased to learn that latest version of the app has live tracking for bus services which will allow you to see where buses are as they approach the stop. We hope that this improves your experience.

Lacks a lot of features

The live departure information for buses is completely unreliable and inaccurate. A bus can regularly be shown as being due in a few minutes only for it to never turn up and disappear from the departure list. Meaning that commuters are told they will have to wait 5 mins but in reality be still waiting 30 mins later and still have no clue when their bus will turn up. If the app was honest in the first place about the wait time then alternative travel arrangements could be made or people could wait a bit longer before setting off to the bus stop as opposed to standing on main roads breathing in toxic for a long time. Secondly, journey times are made longer in peak times due to the lack of single bus tickets available for purchase on the app. Resultantly, every person has to take longer going through the contactless/cash payment process and printing unnecessary paper tickets out. Single £2 tickets are the most cost effective way for 95% of commuters rather than £5 day tickets. It would also be advisable to mention these options in your marketing material a lot more prominently rather than deliberately ommitting the £2 singles for some unknown reason.

Needs improvement

Used it today; some feedback. The “live” updates feature is bugged, showed the eta of the bus and not the actual time it was due to arrive. Doesn’t show the live location of buses either, this was made available in the superseded stagecoach app. There’s limited information regarding service updates and no news feed to show it. This information is available on the TfGM website however. There’s also no route planning facility. There’s no cycle path routes either which is part of the bee network but not part of this app. Doesn’t show any provisions or amenities at stations in an easily digestible way. It lacks ease of use, feels very public procurement rather than user first design. Ticketing was useful though, this feature was the only one of remarks. Overall 2/5, useful but needs drastic improvement for a seamless user experience.

Thanks for your feedback. We have a number of features planned to improve the app in coming months and as the Bee Network evolves. This week we have released a new version of the app (v 1.0.6) that includes a link to service status information when you select a tram stop. Journey planning on the app will be added in the coming months. We are also looking at how we can better integrate cycle and walking into the app. Thanks again.

App Privacy

The developer, Transport for Greater Manchester , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

• Contact Info
• Identifiers

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary based on, for example, the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

• App Support
• Privacy Policy

Get all of your passes, tickets, cards, and more in one place.

You might also like.

Diamond Bus

Northern train tickets & times

TransPennine Express

Manchester Metro

Avanti West Coast

Stagecoach Bus: Plan>Track>Buy

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Manchester

Top Things to Do

Best Museums

How to See a Soccer Match

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Manchester Airport Guide

Best Hotels

Public Transportation

Getting Around Manchester: Guide To Public Transportation

Getty Images 

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.

Getting Around Edinburgh: Guide To Public Transportation

Getting Around Frankfurt: Guide to Public Transportation

How to Travel From BWI Airport to Baltimore by Rail, Bus, and Taxi

Getting Around Madrid: Guide to Public Transportation

Getting Around Mexico City: Guide to Public Transportation

Your Trip to Manchester: The Complete Guide

Getting Around London: Guide to Public Transportation

Getting Around Birmingham, England: Guide to Public Transportation

Your Trip to England: The Complete Guide

Getting Around Prague: Guide to Public Transportation

Getting Around Munich: Guide to Public Transportation

A Guide to Airports in England

Getting Around Switzerland: Guide to Public Transportation

Getting Around Rome: Guide to Public Transportation

Getting Around Strasbourg: Guide to Public Transportation

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Family Friendly

Restaurants, buy the visit manchester pass.

Discover Manchester with the Visit Manchester Pass - Entry into 13 of Manchester's top attractions plus over 30 discounts and offers.

Metrolink tram in St Peter's Square

How to get around manchester.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is the official public transport body for the city. Its Bee Network website has a wealth of information and a number of journey planning tools to take the stress out of travelling. It includes:

• Bus services across Greater Manchester helping you get out and about.
• The Metrolink network, which is one of the most successful light railway systems in the UK. With frequent services there’s no need to worry about a timetable, just head to your nearest stop and the next tram won’t be far away. Metrolink can transport you to popular venues and attractions across the region and, if you’re planning on sightseeing, Travelcards offer unlimited travel across the network. Please be sure to purchase a ticket from the on-stop ticket machines before boarding or tap in and out at the contactless terminals.
• In addition to the inter-city links, the rail network connects you to the neighbouring towns and districts of Greater Manchester including Ashton-under-Lyne, Bolton, Oldham, Rochdale, Stockport and Wigan.

Within the city centre,  free bus  (formerly Metroshuttle) provides a free ‘hop on, hop off’ service linking all of the main rail stations, shopping districts and business areas. There are  services which operate on circular routes.

Manchester is a bike-friendly city with many marked cycle lanes and dedicated routes throughout the city centre and beyond.

Visit the Transport for Greater Manchester  cycling website  for everything you need to know about cycling in Greater Manchester, from maps and route planning to local events and news. 

You can also hire bikes from various locations across the city.

Manchester is easily explored on foot, with a city centre that you can navigate within 30 minutes.  City Hosts  are dotted around the centre to guide you with directions, public transport information and details on events taking place.

Download  one of our maps  to help guide you around the region.

Ratings Powered by

Forgot your password? Register

Have a First Bus App account?

We're sorry but you’ll need to register separately for a web account at the moment.

• Your Shopping Cart
• Journey Planner
• Buy a Ticket
• First Bus App
• Contactless
• Ticket Gifting
• Commuter Travel Club
• Commuter Travel Club Employer Information
• Commuter Travel Club Employer FAQs
• Commuter Travel Club Employee Information
• Commuter Travel Club Employee FAQs
• Help and Support
• Lost Property
• Help with First Bus apps
• How to Catch the Bus
• Extra Help to Travel
• Bus Accessibility
• Customer Complaints Charter
• Our Companies
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
• Policies and Accreditations

Journey planner