Getting around this Christmas

This Christmas, we want to help you get around more sustainably!

Are you tired of battling the queues? Getting confused by diversions? Dreading finding that parking space? 

There are lots of great events taking place in Leicestershire this winter period. From light switch-ons to Christmas markets and Santa’s grottos, lots of people will be making more journeys throughout November and December. Why don’t you try a different mode of transport including our special FREE festive bus services?

Walking

Walking is a great way to both get places and improve your health. If you live in towns or large villages, consider walking to the nearest event. If you’re going when it’s dark, make sure to wear appropriate clothing (something bright!) and have a charged phone available in case of emergencies. If you live in a more rural location, consider walking as part of your route. You could always park further out of towns/cities or cycle or get public transport and walk the rest of the way. To help plan your route, why not take a look at our walking maps here.

Cycling

Cycling can be a great way to get exercise and get places quickly. 

Check out local cycling routes to find the best journey for you. Once you’ve found your route head over to our cycling section to check out local cycle parking. Make sure to always take a bike lock, make sure your lights work and wear Hi-Viz if it’s dark. 

Thinking of getting an E-Bike but not sure which one, or want to try before you buy? We’re putting on e-bike courses throughout the Winter. If you attend you can try out different types of e-bikes, speak to our knowledgeable instructors and go on a lead ride around the local area. What makes it even better is that once you have attended, you are then eligible to claim £300 back off a purchase of an e-bike! For more information visit the Leicestershire County Council E-Bike scheme page.

Public Transport

Buses

Buses are a great way of getting around this Christmas time. Not only can they provide great links between villages, towns and cities, they can keep you warm and dry in those winter months.

You can find timetables for bus operators which serve Leicestershire using the website links below:

Arriva

Central Connect

Centrebus

Diamond

First Bus

Flixbus

Kinchbus

Megabus

National Express

Stagecoach

Trent Barton

Rail

There are lots of local rail stations across Leicestershire if you’re looking to go further afield. To find your nearest station you can check out National Rail.

DDRT & Community Transport 

Do you know about your local public transport options, such as community or demand responsive transport? 

Community transport can be booked in advance with a local provider to take you or a group to your destination. 

FoxConnect is a digital demand responsive transport (DDRT) that can be used to get to and from places in South West Leicestershire for those who don’t have a local bus service. You can see the area that is supported by this service below.

Park & Ride

If you plan on going into the city, Leicester has plenty of park & ride options for you. Planning on going further afield? Most cities now have park and ride locations, like some of Leicestershire’s neighbouring cities and towns. 

Birmingham

Coventry

Lincoln

Nottingham

Stratford-upon-Avon

 

Car Sharing

We know that some journeys have to be made by car, but why not see if someone else is going your way?

You can organise a lift share using one of the many apps on the market. Alternatively, you can post in your local community group socials and information provisions, such as village leaflets, to find people to share your journey with this Christmas. 

 

Personalised Travel Plans

The Choose How You Move team will now be offering free personalised travel plans. These are great for finding the best routes to places you visit regularly, or for a one-off! To request one, please email ChooseHowYouMove@leics.gov.uk with your name, home address and locations you would like the routes for. If you are planning to travel when it is dark you can also add this into the email, so we can suggest the most appropriate routes. 

 

Earn BetterPoints!

You can earn BetterPoints by travelling more sustainably. Use any of the above methods and gain BetterPoints which you can trade for discount, voucher or charity donations! 

More information on how to download the app here.