Stagecoach announces fare rises and ticket changes

Launching on September 1, the revised range will simplify ticket options and bring new products, though most fares will also rise to reflect increased operating costs.

The changes are part of Stagecoach West’s annual fare review and aim to improve customer understanding, support regular travellers, and promote long-term financial sustainability.

Martin Gibbon, managing director at Stagecoach West, said: “We fully understand and appreciate that fare increases are always difficult for our customers.

“That’s why we’ve focused on making our ticket range simpler and providing options that offer better value, particularly for those who travel with us regularly.

“We would encourage our customers to make the most of the new ticket range and choose the option that best suits how they travel.”

Several ticket products are being renamed as part of the simplification.

The Day Rider becomes the Day ticket, the Mega Rider is now the 7 Day ticket, and the Oxfordshire Country ticket becomes the Oxfordshire Rural ticket. Meanwhile, the Xtra ticket will be discontinued.

A new 28 Day ticket will also be introduced across Stagecoach West, offering a cheaper alternative to four 7 Day tickets and available exclusively through the Stagecoach Bus App.

Online discounts will be removed, bringing web prices in line with on-bus fares.

Point-to-Point single fares will increase, with adult singles under £3 rising by up to 10p. Child singles will increase by 20p to 30p.

The £3 single fare cap remains in place. Return fares will be discontinued, with passengers advised to purchase two single tickets or a Day ticket instead.

Day tickets will increase by 40p to 60p, while most 7 Day tickets will rise by £1.80 to £2.80.

Most academic year tickets will increase by around £20, and most term tickets by approximately £15.

Stagecoach said these changes will help support continued investment in the customer experience.

Mr Gibbon said: “My priority, and that of my team, is to provide the best bus services possible for our local communities.

“While, unfortunately, increases in the cost of operating our services can sometimes make fare increases unavoidable, we will continue to do everything we can to provide the best value possible for our customers.”

Customers who purchase tickets before September 1 for travel after that date will be able to use current pricing, subject to existing terms and conditions.

The Government’s £3 fare cap will remain in place until the planned introduction of a new £2 cap from January 2027.