New Durham Explorer Bus Services Launch To Connect County Durham Attractions
Three new bus services are launching across County Durham this summer, making it easier for visitors and residents to explore some of the county’s best-loved attractions.
The Durham Explorer services will run on weekends and bank holidays from 23 May to 31 August, offering direct connections from Durham City to a range of popular visitor destinations.
The new routes will link passengers with attractions including Locomotion, Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens, Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, The Auckland Project, Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, The Bowes Museum and High Force Waterfall.
Many of the venues taking part will also offer discounts to visitors who arrive by bus, helping to make days out more affordable while encouraging people to travel more sustainably.
The new Durham Explorer buses will be operated by Northstar and include three themed routes.
The Durham Dales Explorer 873 will run from Durham City to The Auckland Project, Raby Castle, Barnard Castle, The Bowes Museum and High Force Waterfall.
The Time Traveller Line 874 will connect Durham City with Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens, as well as Beamish, The Living Museum of the North.
The Tracks Through Time Line 875 will run from Durham City to Shildon and Locomotion.
All buses will be accessible, and dogs are also welcome on board.
A range of ticket options will be available for passengers. An adult County Durham day ticket costs £6, allowing unlimited bus travel across the county. A regionwide adult day ticket, covering bus and Metro travel, is available for £7.50, while a regionwide day ticket for young people costs £3.
Families can also benefit from the Kids Go Free initiative during the school holidays. This allows up to three children under 11 to travel for free when accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket or a concessionary pass holder.
Children travelling as part of the scheme will receive a goody bag, and those who complete the A-Z eye spy game can be entered into a prize draw.
The launch of the Durham Explorer services is aimed at helping more people enjoy County Durham’s heritage, culture and countryside without needing to rely on a car. From historic houses and museums to castles, market towns and waterfalls, the routes provide a simple way to discover more of the region over the summer months.
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