Table of Contents
- Brighton Buses: Your Guide to Getting Around Town and Beyond
- What Are the Main Brighton Bus Routes to the Town Centre?
- How Much Do Brighton and Hove Bus Fares Cost and What Tickets Are Available?
- Where Can I Find Brighton Bus Timetables and Real-Time Information?
- How Accessible Are Brighton Buses for Wheelchair Users and Passengers with Disabilities?
- How Can I Navigate the Brighton and Hove Bus Network Map Effectively?
- What Are the Best Tips for Using Brighton Buses to Explore Beyond the Town Centre?
- What Are Common Questions About Brighton Buses?
- Brighton Buses at a Glance: Key Information Summary
- Conclusion: Your Seamless Journey with Brighton Buses
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Brighton Buses: Your Guide to Getting Around Town and Beyond
Hopping on a Brighton bus is a super easy and wallet-friendly way to zip between all the best spots, from the train station right up to Palace Pier and further afield. We know that wrestling with timetables and figuring out ticket types can sometimes feel a bit much, leading to precious time wasted or missed connections. This guide is here to sort you out with straightforward info on the main routes, how fares stack up, live schedule updates, and all the nitty-gritty on accessibility. You’ll find:
- The main bus services heading into the heart of town and where they stop
- A clear breakdown of ticket prices, how to pay, and who gets discounts
- How to catch live departure times and grab downloadable timetables
- Details on support for wheelchair users and passengers with specific needs
- Top tips for exploring Brighton Marina, Falmer, and Hove by bus
Whether you’re just popping in for the day or settling in for a longer visit, this info will help you ditch the stress and travel like a true local.
What Are the Main Brighton Bus Routes to the Town Centre?
Brighton & Hove Buses runs a fantastic network of numbered routes that all funnel into the town centre, connecting up neighbourhoods, transport hubs, and all the must-see attractions. Popular services like the 1, 1X, and 7 are your go-to for zipping through Old Steine, Churchill Square, and the station area, meaning less walking to get to the bars, shops, and the seaside. Figuring out which route is best for you really just depends on where you’re starting from and where you want to hop off—this section breaks down each service by its starting point, destination, and how often it runs. With these clear route choices, you can pack in more sightseeing and skip any unnecessary changes.
Which Bus Routes Serve Brighton Town Centre and Key Stops?
The main bus routes that get you into Brighton’s town centre include services 1, 1X, 7, 12, 25, and 28. Each one links up the surrounding suburbs with Old Steine and Churchill Square.
- Route 1/1X connects Mile Oak and Brighton Marina with the seafront, and the 1X offers a speedier express option.
- Route 7 is your link between Brighton station, the Royal Sussex County Hospital, and the Hove seafront.
- Route 25 runs from Queen’s Park, Whitehawk, and Saltdean right into the heart of town near the Pavilion and Palace Pier.
These routes are buzzing with activity, running every 10–15 minutes during the day, so you won’t be waiting around for long. Just find your nearest stop by its route number, and you’ll be whisked right into the city’s vibrant core.
How Do I Get from Brighton Railway Station to the Town Centre by Bus?
It’s a super quick hop on routes 1, 1X, or 7 from the station forecourt to Old Steine – we’re talking less than five minutes! Buses pull up at Stand G just outside arrivals, and you’ll see “Town Centre” clearly displayed on the front. Just jump on any bus heading towards Old Steine and get off opposite the Metropole Hotel for a straight shot to the seafront promenade. This speedy connection means you can be at Churchill Square shopping centre or exploring The Lanes within ten minutes, saving you the hassle of a long walk with your luggage.
What Are the Night Bus Services in Brighton?
When the sun goes down, the N1 through N7 night services take over, running from after midnight until about 4 AM. They cover the main routes every 30 minutes, keeping you connected.
- N1 and N2 follow the same paths as the daytime 1 and 2, linking the station with the seafront and The Loop.
- N7 mirrors route 7’s journey, hitting central stops on its way to Hangleton and Portslade.
- All the N-series buses make stops at Churchill Square, Old Steine, and the station, ensuring you can get home safely after a late night out.
You can check out the late-running timetables at the main bus stops or on the handy mobile app, so you’ll always know when your ride home is coming, even after evening events or concerts.
How Can I Travel Beyond the Town Centre to Nearby Areas?
Plenty of services stretch out from the city centre to popular spots further afield, all with clear signs and frequent departures. Buses heading to Marina, Falmer, and Hove leave Old Steine and Brighton station every 15–20 minutes, making for easy journeys without any backtracking. Knowing these connections will help you plan visits to the university campus, the stadium, seaside attractions, or neighbouring towns.
Which Bus Routes Go to Brighton Marina and Attractions?
Brighton Marina is well-served by route 7 and the slightly shorter route 12, both departing from Old Steine. The 12 takes you along Black Rock and the seafront road, while the 7 heads inland via Marine Gate. The journey typically takes around 20 minutes and offers lovely coastal views, making these buses perfect for reaching the marina’s shops, restaurants, and the nearby i360 observation tower.
How Do I Reach Falmer University and Amex Stadium by Bus?
Routes 25 and 25A connect Old Steine and Churchill Square with the Falmer campus and the Amex Stadium. Buses depart every 15 minutes on match days, and every 30 minutes during quieter periods. You’ll find modern, low-floor buses with clear “Falmer” destination displays, making them super easy to spot for students and sports fans alike.
What Are the Main Bus Services to Hove and Western Road?
Both route 1 and route 7 will take you to Hove. Route 1 continues along Western Road, while route 7 heads across via Montgomery Street. These services depart from stops A and B at Churchill Square and take about 15–20 minutes to reach George Street and the Hove Lawns Promenade. During the day, buses run every 10 minutes, giving you effortless access to Hove’s charming cafes, galleries, and seafront gardens.
How Much Do Brighton and Hove Bus Fares Cost and What Tickets Are Available?
Getting to grips with Brighton bus fares means you can pick the best value option for your travels. Single fares start at £3 for a one-way trip anywhere in the city, while day tickets and longer-term passes open the door to unlimited travel and discounts for multiple days. Here’s a quick look at the standard options and when they’re your best bet.
Before you dive into the table, just a heads-up: citySAVER tickets give you unlimited travel on all Brighton & Hove Buses routes for a whole calendar day, and networkSAVER passes extend that to Metrobus routes across East Sussex too.
These options are brilliant for day-trippers, students, and regular commuters looking to save cash by matching their ticket to how they travel. Choosing the right pass means lower costs per trip and makes hopping on the bus a breeze.
What Are the Prices for Single and Day Tickets on Brighton Buses?
Single fares are a flat £3.00, no matter how far you’re going, making them perfect for those one-off journeys. If you’re planning on hopping between attractions, the citySAVER day ticket at £6.50 is your winner, offering unlimited travel across the network until the early hours of the next morning. These prices cover both peak and off-peak times, so you don’t need to worry about calculating zones or extra charges.
How Do Period Tickets Like networkSAVER and Plusbus Work?
The networkSAVER week ticket, costing £17.60, lets you travel as much as you like on Brighton & Hove Buses and Metrobus services throughout East Sussex and parts of West Sussex. Plusbus, at £2.50, is a great add-on for anyone with a valid rail ticket, giving you unlimited bus travel in the Greater Brighton area. If you’re staying for a few days, combining your rail and bus passes can often be the most economical choice.
What Concessionary Passes Are Available for Brighton Buses?
If you’re a senior, have a disability, or are a carer, you might be eligible for concessionary passes that offer free or reduced-fare travel on all routes. Holders of disabled person’s cards travel for free, and carers accompanying them also get complimentary fares. These schemes are all about making transport accessible and encouraging everyone in the community to get around easily.
How Can I Pay for Brighton Buses?
You’ve got plenty of options for paying your fare on Brighton buses: contactless bank cards, mobile wallets, the handy Key Card smartcard, or good old cash. Just tap and go with your card or phone, and it automatically figures out the best daily or weekly fare for you. The Key Card offers even more savings if you load it up with credit beforehand, and if you’re paying with cash, make sure you have the exact change to keep things moving smoothly.
Where Can I Buy Brighton Bus Tickets?
You can grab your tickets directly from the machines on the bus, at staffed bus stations, local travel shops, or through the official mobile app. The Key Card itself can be picked up at Brighton station kiosks, selected retailers, and council offices. Buying tickets via the app is super convenient – you get your digital m-tickets straight to your phone, so no need for physical cards or cash.
Where Can I Find Brighton Bus Timetables and Real-Time Information?
Having accurate schedule information is key to stress-free travel. Brighton & Hove Buses makes it easy with downloadable timetables, a live-tracking mobile app, and digital displays at all the major stops. These resources keep you in the loop about how often buses are running, any route changes, and potential disruptions.
How Do I Use the Brighton Bus Timetable App for Live Times?
The official app is your best friend for live departure updates, route maps, and service alerts. Once you’ve downloaded it for Android or iOS, just pick your favourite stops to get push notifications when your bus is approaching. The “Find My Bus” feature uses GPS to show you exactly where your service is on its journey, cutting down on guesswork and waiting time.
Where Are Key Bus Stops with Real-Time Displays in Brighton?
You’ll find electronic countdown screens at key spots like Old Steine stop H, Churchill Square stop B, and major termini including Brighton Marina. These displays show you exactly how long until your bus arrives, the route number, and any service updates. Getting familiar with these hubs means you can quickly check the timetable before you even get to the stop.
How Can I Check Service Updates and Disruptions?
Any planned works or unexpected delays are posted on the operator’s official service update page and are often announced on local radio. If you sign up for SMS or email alerts through the mobile app, you’ll get instant notifications about cancellations, diversions, or any replacement shuttle services.
How Accessible Are Brighton Buses for Wheelchair Users and Passengers with Disabilities?
Brighton & Hove Buses is really leading the way when it comes to accessibility. All their modern buses are designed for step-free boarding, have priority seating, and offer spacious areas for wheelchairs. Plus, they have special schemes and thorough staff training to make sure passengers with disabilities can travel confidently and with dignity.
Are All Brighton & Hove Buses Wheelchair Accessible?
Absolutely! Every single bus in their fleet has a low-floor design, ramps that extend easily, and dedicated spaces for wheelchairs, all meeting the required standards. Drivers can deploy the ramps in a flash, and you’ll hear and see announcements onboard clearly stating the next stop. This consistent accessibility really breaks down barriers for travellers with mobility challenges.
The Impact of Congestion on Bus Passengers in Brighton Buses are also the primary mode of access to our city centres… The number of bus journeys in Brighton & Hove has doubled…The impact of congestion on bus passengers, David Begg, 2016
The fact that bus journeys in Brighton & Hove have doubled really shows how crucial public transport is for keeping the city connected. It also highlights the potential strain on infrastructure, especially during busy periods.
What Is the Wheelchair Taxi Guarantee Scheme?
If, for any reason, a ramp can’t be used because of the road or kerb conditions, the Wheelchair Taxi Guarantee Scheme steps in. They’ll arrange for a free, licensed accessible taxi to finish your journey for you. This brilliant service fills any gaps in the network and ensures they’re always able to provide step-free travel for everyone.
How Does the Helping Hand Scheme Assist Passengers?
If you need a bit of extra help with getting on or off the bus, or with your luggage, you can ask for the free Helping Hand service. The drivers who take part in this scheme have completed top-notch disability awareness training, so they’re perfectly equipped to assist passengers who are visually impaired, hearing impaired, or elderly, making sure their whole trip is smooth sailing.
What Accessibility Features Are Available at Bus Stops?
Major stops like Old Steine and Churchill Square are fitted with raised kerbs, tactile paving, and hearing loops to make boarding and getting information easier. The real-time displays also have an audio announcement feature that you can activate on demand, meaning blind or partially sighted passengers can get their departure information independently.
How Are Brighton Bus Drivers Trained for Accessibility?
Every single driver goes through comprehensive training modules that cover all sorts of assistance techniques, disability etiquette, and communication strategies. These sessions are accredited by a national transport accessibility body, ensuring drivers learn the best ways to help passengers with all sorts of different needs and fostering a real culture of inclusive travel.
How Can I Navigate the Brighton and Hove Bus Network Map Effectively?
An interactive network map is your secret weapon for spotting route clusters, transit hubs, and where services overlap. It lets you visualise your journey options before you even step on board. Getting the hang of the map’s symbols and colour-coded lines will speed up your planning and stop you from missing connections.
Where Can I Access an Interactive Brighton Bus Network Map?
You can find official route maps right inside the mobile app, or pop into one of the staffed travel centres dotted around the city. Many third-party journey planner websites also offer downloadable PDF maps, which you can print out or keep on your tablet for quick checks on the go.
How Do I Read and Use the Bus Route Numbers on the Map?
Routes are neatly grouped by corridor and clearly marked with bold numbers. Express services have an “X” after their number, and night buses are prefixed with an “N”. You’ll also see coloured bands next to the route numbers, which correspond to different service areas – think red for seafront routes, blue for university links, and green for suburban loops.
What Are the Key Bus Stops and Transit Hubs on the Map?
The main central hubs you’ll want to know are Old Steine, Churchill Square, and Brighton station. Then there are secondary hubs like Lewes Road, Patcham, and Portslade that are great for switching between local and regional services. Spotting these key intersections will help you piece together routes for destinations further afield.
What Are the Best Tips for Using Brighton Buses to Explore Beyond the Town Centre?
Taking your bus adventures beyond the city centre to charming coastal towns, bustling university campuses, or quaint countryside villages opens up a whole new world of experiences, and you won’t even need to think about renting a car. Special seasonal tourist services, connections to surrounding areas, and integrated ticketing make longer trips a total breeze.
How Do I Travel by Bus to Lewes, Saltdean, and Other Nearby Towns?
Services like the Coaster routes 27 and 12 connect Brighton town centre with places like Saltdean and Newhaven, running every couple of hours. The Regency routes are your ticket to Lewes, Uckfield, and Seaford, offering scenic journeys through lovely countryside villages. If you’re planning a return trip, grabbing a day-return ticket is often the most budget-friendly option.
What Are the Coaster and Regency Bus Services?
The Coaster network is all about those picturesque coastal spots east of Brighton, while the Regency routes head inland to charming market towns and university campuses. The best part? Both these services accept citySAVER and networkSAVER tickets, meaning you can hop on them from your urban journey without needing to buy a separate fare.
How Can Tourists Use Brighton Buses to Visit Popular Attractions?
From the stunning Royal Pavilion to the lively Brighton Marina, buses offer direct routes or simple one-change connections. Route 7 will whisk you to the elegant Regency Square gardens, route 12 glides past the iconic British Airways i360, and the 1X drops you right near the famous palace pier. If you combine a day saver ticket with an attraction discount voucher, you can often bag some extra savings too!
What Are Common Questions About Brighton Buses?
Lots of travellers want to know about the main bus company, how to find timetables, accessibility options, topping up their Key Card, and the best routes to Brighton Marina. Brighton & Hove Buses is indeed the main operator, and they offer a super useful mobile app for live departure times and downloadable timetables for when you’re offline. All their buses are designed for easy step-free boarding and have priority seating, backed up by the fantastic Wheelchair Taxi Guarantee and Helping Hand schemes. You can get your Key Card at kiosks, travel shops, or through the app for easy fare capping.
And if you’re heading to Brighton Marina, frequent services 7 and 12 depart from the town centre every 15 minutes, making for a quick trip to the waterfront shops and eateries. Brighton buses are your ticket to seamless travel across the city and beyond, blending affordability with modern convenience. Whether you’re heading into town for a day out, off to a university event, or exploring the marina, these services make getting around a doddle and unlock the very best of Brighton and its neighbouring areas. Be sure to keep up to date with Brighton Up Your Day for all things Brighton!
Brighton Buses at a Glance: Key Information Summary
Conclusion: Your Seamless Journey with Brighton Buses
As this comprehensive guide has shown, Brighton & Hove Buses offers an incredibly efficient, affordable, and accessible way to explore every corner of this vibrant city and its beautiful surroundings. From the bustling town centre and iconic seafront to the university campus and charming neighbouring towns, the extensive network of routes, clear fare structures, and commitment to passenger accessibility ensure a smooth journey for everyone.
With real-time information at your fingertips via the mobile app and a variety of convenient payment options, navigating Brighton has never been easier. Ditch the stress of driving and embrace the freedom of public transport to truly experience Brighton like a local. Brighton buses make it easy to reach the city’s best spots — like our favourite parks and free attractions.
