The Hope Valley Explorer summer bus service will return to the Peak District from Saturday 24 July.
Following a successful pilot season in 2019, the service was paused during the Covid-19 restrictions of 2020 but will now operate from 24 July to 30 October this year.
The Peak District National Park has partnered with regional operators Stagecoach to offer the service across weekends and bank holidays throughout the summer, with onward links via bus and train to Sheffield, Manchester and Chesterfield.
In line with government guidance, Stagecoach and the National Park Authority are encouraging people to continue wearing face coverings when using the service.
Space for two bikes will also be available on the service - via racks - on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ticket prices have been frozen at 2019 rates - starting at £4 for a single journey and including £6 return and a £12 family ticket. Some additional Stagecoach passes also apply.
The route will include key stops at Castleton, Hope and Fairholmes visitor centre in the Derwent Valley. Iconic locations like Winnats Pass, Mam Tor and the Great Ridge will all be available to enjoy from the route.
The initial three-year, seasonal pilot scheme (now extended to 2022) – funded by the National Park Authority - will assess the viability of running similar services long-term, to help ease pressure from private vehicles in the National Park and support linked sustainable transport by the use of rail services.
Andrew McCloy, chair of the Peak District National Park Authority, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing back the Hope Valley Explorer.
“With onward bus links and the chance to join via train from Sheffield and Manchester along the route, the Explorer is a great car-free choice to discover a wonderful corner of the Peak District this year.
“Our continuing aim is to support a reduction in private car journeys in these areas and help promote more sustainable ways of getting to, and enjoying, the UK’s first ever National Park.”
T: 01629 816200
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