Get your freedom. Get your free bus pass

11 months ago Wed 14th Dec 2022

The possibilities for days out by bus are endless, whether it's for shopping, sightseeing, visiting family, or just getting out and about. Passholders of the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme can travel for free on our buses.

Already have your pass? Great!

There are so many places to go and enjoy, and when you can get there for free, what's stopping you? Get your freedom and check out some of our favourite places to go with your free bus pass below.

Need to get your pass? No problem

It's easy to apply for your free bus pass and even easier to use on our buses.
When you board the bus just hold your pass on the ticket machine card reader until it beeps, then take your seat.
The times you can use your pass, are set by your local authority.
In West Yorkshire, Lancashire and Greater Manchester, you can use your pass after 9.30am and 11pm Monday to Friday, and all day at weekends and bank holidays.
In North Yorkshire, you can use your concessionary pass after 9am on our buses, Monday to Friday, and at any time at weekends and bank holidays.
Who can apply for a pass is also set by your local authority. Follow the link to see if you're eligible and to apply for your bus pass if you live in Lancashire, Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire or North Yorkshire.

Where will your freedom take you? Here's some of our suggestions.

Bankfield Museum

Bankfield tells the story of Halifax and Calderdale, using its rich and diverse collections. The displays cover local history, costume, art, toys, military history, jewellery and textiles from around the world. We also host temporary exhibitions including costume, embroidery, quilting, textile art, paintings and photography. stroll through the exhibits at your own pace for an ideal leisurely afternoon.

Bankfield Museum

You can reach Bankfield Museum on Team Pennine 22, get off at Akroyd Park & Bankfield Museum right next to the entrance.

Blackburn Museum

One of the first purpose built free museums open outside of London, Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery houses a rich and fascinating collection covering fine art, decorative art, Egyptology, natural and social history. With over 1,000 Japanese prints, 5,000 examples of coins and money and 500 books and manuscripts you certainly won’t be short of things to see!

Blackburn Museum

You can reach the Blackburn Museum on

Get off at Blackburn bus station just a short walk from the museum.

Boundary Outlet

Recently refurbished, Boundary offers a much simpler shopping experience, filled with famous name brands at outlet prices, including Cath Kidston, Jaeger and Regatta. There is also a fabulous selection of delectable dining options. You’ll find everything you’re looking for under one roof.

Boundary Outlet

You can reach Boundary Outlet on

Get off at the Crown Hotel just a short walk away, or Boundary Mill if your on Ribble Country 6 right outside the door.

Burnley Mechanics

A vibrant venue in the heart of Burnley town centre, showcasing a variety of music, theatre and entertainment shows. There are also pre-show dining experiences to help make for a really special night. By day you can even find home cooked food in the thriving bistro.

Burnley Mechanics

You can reach Burnley Mechanics on

Get off right outside at Burnley Mechanics on Witchway, Rossendale Rovers 8, The Burnley Bus Company 1 and Ribble Country 15, or just a short walk away at Burnley bus station on any bus to Burnley.

Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Standing in Lister Park, Bradford, Cartwright Hall was built on the former site of Manningham Hall, and opened as a gallery in 1904. The hall housed a display of loaned artworks before acquiring its own collection of Victorian and Edwardian works using funds from the 1904 Bradford Industrial Exhibition. Perusing the gallery is perfect for a leisurely trip out.

Cartwright Hall

You can reach Cartwright Hall on FLYER A3 or the Shuttle, get off at O ak Lane just next to Lister Park gates.

Cliffe Castle

See sparkling Victorian rooms and furniture, paintings, and decorative art. Special galleries deal with natural history, archaeology and social history, all of which can be seen on your visit along with the internationally important display of stained glass by Morris and Co. The Castle also hosts changing exhibitions from their collections and the community. Family areas ensure that there is something for all ages so bring the grandkids along too.

Cliffe Castle

You can reach Cliffe Castle on

Get off at East Avenue just a short walk from the Castle.

Corporation Park

Stroll through the handsome archway into a traditional Victorian park, awarded the prestigious Green Flag award status. As you wander through the park you’ll notice 2 picturesque lakes filled with wildlife, bowling greens, tennis courts and even a Victorian conservatory.

Corporation Park

The Park is a short walk from Blackburn town centre, our nearest stop to the gates is Town Hall on Hotline, The Blackburn Bus Company 2 and The Blackburn Bus Company 4 but Blackburn bus station isn't much further to get there on

Crimple

Whether you are on the lookout for artisan produce in the Food Hall, a delicious locally-sourced meal in our incredible Bar & Kitchen, exquisite plants and shrubs in our Garden Centre, a thoughtful present for someone special in the Gift Shop or a space to celebrate a special event, come to Crimple for a real slice of Yorkshire in the heart of God’s own country.

Crimple

You can reach Crimple on FLYER A2 or The 36, get off at Crimple Valley a short walk from the garden centre entrance.

East Riddlesden Hall

Visit this 17th-century manor house and historic Great Barn, that tells the tales of the ambition, success and failure of those who lived and worked here. After exploring the house take a stroll through the intimate and peaceful gardens, then indulge yourself with the homemade cakes and seasonal lunches in the tea room.

East Riddlesden Hall

You can reach East Riddlesden Hall on

Get off at Bradford Road West Lea Avenue right next to the Hall's entrance

Ellenroad Engine House Steam Museum

This impressive hidden gem is home of the Worlds Largest Working Steam Mill Engine. Go see the restored 3,000 horsepower twin engines, Victoria and Alexandra, the 80 ton flywheel, Whitelees beam engine and 1921 steam generator in action. Theres even the engine house cafe on site to keep you refreshed with tasty food and drinks.

Ellenroad Engine House Steam Museum

You can reach Ellenroad Engine house on Rochdale Runners R4, R9 & R10, get off at Bentgate Street right next to the museum.

Empire Theatre

This performing arts theatre specializes in musicals, iconic singers and Broadway style revivals. Enjoy a drink at the bar before finding your comfortable seat as the show begins… With shows running all year from The Everly Brothers tribute band to Snow White you’ll never be short of choice.

Empire Theatre

You can reach the Empire Theatre on The1 or The Blackburn Bus Company 2, get off right outside the door at Ewood, Empire Theatre

Fireground Museum

This museum tells the story of firefighting, particularly in the Greater Manchester region. The area has played a significant role in the story of fire brigades and fire engineering. Manchester formed England’s first municipal fire service in 1826, whilst the country’s earliest motorised fire engine was delivered to Eccles in 1901. Head on down to learn more of the local influence into this vital part of our society.

Fireground Museum

You can reach the Fireground Museum on

Get off at Oldham Road/High Level Road just a short walk away from the museum.

Fusiliers Museum

The Fusilier Museum is home to the collections of the XX Lancashire Fusiliers and the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. Together they record over 300 years of history and heritage. The museum is family- friendly and provides a relaxing and informative experience for all to enjoy. It boasts a rolling programme of temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year. It’s also home to Minnie’s, a new café, serving delicious freshly made food every day!

Fusiliers Museum

You can reach the Fusiliers Museum on

Get off at Bury Interchange, just a stones throw away from the museum.

Goddards

A hidden garden on the edge of York, Goddards is home to Five acres of garden rooms where the Terry family once lived. There are several garden rooms filled with scented borders, mature trees, ponds and wilder areas. Build up an appetite in the kitchen garden or simply pause and listen to the birds from the terrace.

Goddards

You can reach Goddards on Coastliner, get off at T he Cross Keys just outside the entrance.

Helmshore Mills Textile Museum

Visit a place where Lancashire’s industrial past is brought to life through a multi-sensory experience like no other. Witness our spellbinding historic machinery in action; where the noisy clicks, clunks, thumps and distinctive scents will transport you to another era.

Helmshore Mills

You can reach the museum on Rossendale Rovers 11, get off at Helmshore, Park Mill, right outside the door.

Holmfirth

Holmfirth is known for the Last of the Summer wine for many year’s, and still has many visitors flocking to see Sid’s Cafe, but now is a fabulous place to be for music and events, exploring the area, unique and interesting shops and even has it’s own Vineyard!

If you need something to keep you going while you're in Holmfirth, The Wrinkled Stocking Tea Room has delicious hand made cakes, lovely lunches and beautiful traditional afternoon tea.

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You can reach Holmfirth on Holmfirth Explorer Get off at Holmfirth bus station right in the middle of the town.

King George's Hall

A welcoming performance venue regularly hosting a wide range of shows, and exciting programme of music, dancing, comedy and variety. The cafe bar is the perfect place for a drink and snack before the performance. David Bowie is among the artists who have appeared there!

King George's Hall

You can reach King George's Hall on

Get off a short walk away at Blackburn bus station

Kirkstall Abbey

Explore the historic ruins of Kirkstall Abbey and learn all about its history in the Visitor Centre. Enjoy wandering through the park and woodlands, and take a leisurely stroll beside the River Aire. There's plenty of events on throughout the year so it's always worth a visit for a relaxing afternoon.

You can reach Kirkstall Abbey on FLYER A1 getting off at Abbey Road Abbey Walk right outside, or on Aireline getting off at Kirkstall Morrisons, a short walk away from the Abbey ruins.

Knaresborough

The picturesque town is a warren of medieval streets and stone staircases that weave their way up and down the hill. The town centre is perched on the cliffs above the River Nidd and the imposing railway viaduct across the Nidd Gorge making an amazing view from the castle. On a Wednesday stalls fill the market place offering tasty produce, wholefoods, plants and flowers, as well as pretty much anything else you can imagine.

While you're in Knaresborough, why not stop for a coffee and cake at Cafe di Lucca? Ask your driver on The1 for a bingo card and get it stamped every time you travel. Get 10 stamps and you can trade it in the cafe for a free drink. You'll have to buy the cake, though! If you fancy something a little stronger to quench your thirst, visit Blind Jack's for a unique and enjoyable pub experience. We're doing the driving after all.

Knaresborough

You can reach Knaresborough on

Get off at the Knaresborough bus station to be in the centre of the town.

Leeds Industrial Museum

Learn about the industrial heritage of Leeds, the city of 1000 trades, in the Grade II listed Armley Mills. Leeds Industrial Museum has changing exhibitions which are inspired by a theme from the museum’s collection, along with exciting events running throughout the year. It's great day out with or without the grandkids in tow.

Leeds Industrial Museum

You can reach Leeds Industrial Museum on FLYER A1 or Aireline getting off at Wolesley Road, just a 5 minute walk away through Cardigan Fields retail park.

Malton

With their superb local, farm to fork produce & exciting events, Malton is proud to be known as Yorkshire’s Food Capital. Set astride the beautiful St. Michael’s church, Malton’s Market Place is the buzzing centre of town and home to a wide range of superb independent shops, cafes & restaurants. With year round events there always something worth visiting Malton for, so why not take a ride out to this thriving Yorkshire town.

You're spoiled for choice of lunch options in the town but we like The Hidden Monkey an ideal traditional tearoom right on the Market Place. No trip to Malton is complete without popping into Yates’ Country Store. Where else can you buy plants, rain-coats, fridges, toys, hardware and everything in between!

Malton

You can reach Malton on

Get off at Wells Lane a short walk from the market place and the centre of the town.

National Railway Museum

Home to iconic locomotives and beautiful collections, you can wander through halls and explore the stories, places and engineering marvels behind the railways. See world-changing inventions like Rocket and the Japanese Bullet Train. Admire the splendour of royal travel including Queen Victoria’s ‘palace on wheels’ and stand face-to-face with the world’s fastest steam locomotive, Mallard.

NRM

You can reach the National Railway Museum on

Get off at York, rail station, or Station Avenue on Castleline, a short walk away from the museum doors.

Otley

Wander around the quaint cobbled streets. Browse the independent shops selling the best: antiques, unique gifts, art, jewellery and lots more. Wash down Otley's award-winning pork pies with a drink in one of our many historic pubs. Picnic by the riverside or Hike to the top of The Chevin for a breathtaking view across the Wharfedale valley. There's plenty to do in the towns so head on over and make a day of it.

One of our favourite stops in Ilkley is the Little Corner of The World Cafe & Tea Room, perfect for an afternoon tea after exploring the town.

Otley

You can reach Otley on

Get off at Otley bus station, right in the heart of the town.

Pendle Heritage Centre

A popular and beautiful Edwardian park, recently restored using a Heritage Fund, is an excellent choice for a day out with the family or a leisurely stroll. The park features a rose garden and flower beds, a beautiful boating lake, playground and even a miniature railway which takes you around a section of the park.

Pendle Heritage Centre

you can reach Pendle Heritage Centre on

Get off at Bank Fold, or Pendle Heritage Centre if you’re on RibbleCountry 68, just a short walk from the centre entrance.

Rail Story

Rail Story has come about thanks to a collaboration between the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, the Vintage Carriages Trust and the Bahamas Locomotive Society. It gives visitors greater opportunities to learn about and understand the preservation and conservation of our railway heritage.

Enjoy the Rail Story on it's own or include it as part of a your day on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, where you can get money off with a Transdev Treats voucher, find out more here.

Rail Story

You can reach Rail Story on

Get off at Ingrow Church, or Haincliffe Road South Street if your on the 67, right next to the entance.

RHS Gardens Harlow Carr

As well as Bettys Cafe and an excellent shop, Harlow Carr offers a variety of growing landscapes, from running and still water, to woodland and wildflower meadows. Highlights include the lavish Main Borders, bursting with generous prairie-style planting, and the lush, moisture-loving plants around Streamside. There's even a car-free travel discount on your admission ticket when you arrive by bus.

Harlow Carr

You can reach RHS Gardens Harlow Carr on Harrogate Electrics 6, X6, get off at Plantation Road a short walk away from the front door.

Ripon

With a thriving market place and a magnificent cathedral, this busy little city will earn a place in any visitor’s heart. Reaching out from the market square are small streets and snickets that are home to the eclectic and specialist shops for which Ripon is so loved. Amongst them are cafes and pubs, offering refreshment and home cooked food throughout the day.

One of our favourite spots for lunch in Ripon is Claro Lounge, just next to the Town Hall. Or for a simpler cup of tea and something sweet, pop in to Coffee at Number 10 on queen street.

Roundhay Park

You can reach Ripon on The36 or York & Country 22, 23, get off at the Ripon bus station for easy access to the whole city centre.

Roundhay Park

As one of the biggest and most popular city parks in Europe Roundhay Park covers over 700 acres of rolling parkland with lakes and woodlands. The Park is also home to a number of beautifully kept gardens and has an abundance of wildlife to see as you explore. There are events throughout the year at the park, from concerts and farmers markets to races, festivals and more, it's always worth a visit!

The Roundhay Fox is a traditional rustic restaurant & pub on the edge of Roundhay Park, right opposite the Tropical World Greenhouses. We think it's an ideal stop for a meal and something to drink on your exploration round the park.

Roundhay Park

You can reach Roundhay Park on the X98 X99, get off at Roundhay Park Gates right outside the park entrance.

Sowerby Bridge

The town of Sowerby bridge is where The Rochdale Canal and Calder & Hebble Navigation meet, offering lovely walks along both waterways. The Wharf area is the heart of the town, with great food and drink available. While you're there visit Tuel Lane Lock or Sowerby Bridge Market, and make sure you return for the annual Rushbearing Festival in September.

one of our favourite spots in Sowerby Bridge is Willow Tree Cafe No 5, perfect for a hot cup of tea and bite to eat after exploring the market or a walk along the Canal.

Sowerby Bridge

You can reach Sowerby Bridge on

Get off at Tuel Lane to find yourself in the middle of the town.

Tadcaster

This delightful market town has a fantastic array of cosy pubs selling fine ales and three historic breweries, including the oldest brewery in Yorkshire. Visit on a Thursday for the bustling outdoor market, or head over to the Riley-Smith Hall for one of the many performances or classes held there. With such a range of ways to spend your time in the town, Tadcaster is the perfect place to stop off for a relaxing afternoon.

One of our favourite spots in Tadcaster is Walkers Kitchen, perfect for a refreshing drink and tasty bite to eat after a walk by the river or exploring the market.

Tadcaster

You can reach Tadcaster on Coastliner, get off at John Smith's Brewery right in the centre of the town.

Thompson Park

You can reach Thompson Park on

Get off at Prestige Park, just a short walk from the park entrance.

The Weavers' Triangle

Take a trip back in time at Burnley’s historic and visit the original mill engine in motion, old Victorian schoolroom, Edwardian bathroom and weaver’s dwelling. Find out how cotton was made and even have a go at weaving! Display rooms house changing exhibitions of artwork, crafts and local history. Light refreshments are also available in the parlour.

The Weavers' Triangle

You can reach The Weavers' Triangle on

Get off right just down the road at Burnley Mechanics on Witchway, Rossendale Rovers 8, The Burnley Bus Company 1 and Ribble Country 15, or just a short walk away at Burnley bus station on any bus to Burnley.

Whistlestop Valley

Whistlestop valley, home of the Kirklees Light Railway, is an ideal way to spend a day with the grandkids. travel in beautiful hand-painted wooden carriages behind one of Yorkshire's Great Little Steam Trains. Then enjoy an afternoon tea while the kids blow off some steam on the adventure playground. Its a fun filled day for the whole family!

Whistlestop Valley

You can reach Whistlestop Valley on Denby Darts D1 or Holmfirth Explorer, getting off at Wakefield Road Park Mill Way a short walk away from the entrance.

Been there, done that? We've got even more inspiration for places you can explore right across the north, and great discounts at plenty of them when you go by bus, just ask your driver for a Transdev Treats voucher. Follow the links to explore more in Yorkshire or Lancashire.