Cambridge Bus Strike to Affect Holiday Travel Plans: How Stagecoach Workers’ Dispute Will Impact Tourism

Published on December 5, 2025

Cambridge, a city famous for its historic charm and vibrant university culture, is bracing for major travel disruptions this Christmas season as Stagecoach workers announce a five-day strike over disagreements with the company on overtime pay. The walkout, which will affect hundreds of local bus services, is set to take place on December 17, 20, 22, 24, and 27, right in the heart of the holiday season.

For both tourists and local commuters, this strike presents a major hurdle. The dispute, led by the UK’s leading union, Unite, revolves around Stagecoach’s decision to slash overtime pay rates for its workers. Stagecoach employees have rejected the company’s offer, which would see overtime rates cut by 12% on weekdays and by 20% on weekends and public holidays, including Christmas Day and Boxing Day. This reduction in pay is considered unfair by the workers, leading to the planned industrial action.

How Will the Strike Affect Tourists and Business Travel?

This strike is likely to affect a range of travelers, especially those relying on public transport to move around Cambridge during the festive period. The local bus network, which is heavily used by tourists and residents alike, will experience delays and cancellations during the five strike days. This disruption comes at a time when many visitors are expected to flock to the city for the Christmas markets, festive events, and winter holiday experiences.

Impact on Business Travel:
Business travelers coming to Cambridge for meetings, conferences, and events may find it difficult to navigate the city without the bus services that usually offer an affordable and efficient mode of transport. This disruption could lead to delays, missed appointments, and increased travel costs as commuters seek alternative transport options, such as taxis or private hire cars.

Impact on Tourists:
Tourists visiting Cambridge for the iconic festive experience will also feel the effects of the strike. Attractions such as the Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and winter festivals may be less accessible for those relying on buses to travel between them. The disruption is expected to reduce the mobility of visitors who typically rely on public transport for getting around the city’s historic sites.

Why Is This Happening?

The strike is rooted in a dispute over pay between Stagecoach, the company that operates the bus network in Cambridge, and its workers, represented by Unite. The workers argue that Stagecoach, a company that made £97.3 million in operating profits last year, should not be cutting overtime rates, especially during the busy festive season. The workers have expressed frustration over the pay cut proposal, highlighting that the company has the financial capacity to maintain its previous pay rates without negatively impacting its bottom line.

Unite’s general secretary, Sharon Graham, has backed the workers, stating that Stagecoach has the ability to offer a better deal. The union also indicated that industrial action could escalate if the company does not come to the table with a more reasonable offer. This marks a challenging time for both the workers and the local community, who now face uncertainty during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

What Can Tourists Do to Navigate the Disruption?

For tourists planning to visit Cambridge during the strike, there are several alternative transport options that can help mitigate the impact of the bus disruptions.

1. Use Alternative Public Transport:

• Trains: Cambridge is well-connected by train to other major UK cities, including London, Manchester, and Birmingham. Tourists can rely on the train services that are unlikely to be affected by the strike.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing: In the absence of buses, taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft will be essential for getting around the city. Be sure to plan ahead, as these services may experience higher demand during peak hours.

2. Plan Travel Around the Strikes:

• If possible, avoid traveling on the strike days (December 17, 20, 22, 24, and 27). Many local businesses and tourist attractions may also have reduced hours on these days due to the disruption.
• Check local news and social media platforms for real-time updates on bus schedules and potential delays.

3. Consider Walking or Cycling:

• Cambridge is a compact city, making walking or cycling a viable option for many tourists. Most of the city’s key attractions, including the University of Cambridge, the Fitzwilliam Museum, and the River Cam, are within walking distance of each other.

4. Stay Updated:

• Keep an eye on official Stagecoach websites and social media pages for real-time updates on the status of the bus services and the progress of the ongoing dispute.
• Utilize local government resources, such as the Cambridge City Council website, for any updates on transport during the strike days.

Government’s Response and What Tourists Need to Know

The local government has urged Stagecoach and the union to resolve the dispute amicably to avoid further disruption to services. While the government has refrained from intervening directly, they have recommended that both parties engage in meaningful negotiations to reach a fair resolution before the strike takes place.

For tourists, the Cambridge City Council also recommends checking the official websites for updated information on public transportation and potential rerouted bus services. They also suggest considering alternative modes of travel, especially for those planning to attend major events during the holiday season.

Key Takeaways for Tourists

• Five-Day Strike: Stagecoach workers will strike on December 17, 20, 22, 24, and 27.
• Disruptions Expected: Bus services in and around Cambridge will experience severe delays and cancellations.
• Alternative Transport: Use trains, taxis, ride-sharing, or consider walking or cycling around Cambridge.
• Stay Informed: Check the Stagecoach website and local government updates for real-time information.

This industrial action serves as a reminder to both tourists and business travelers to plan ahead and consider alternative transport options when traveling in Cambridge during the Christmas season. By staying informed and adjusting your plans accordingly, you can minimize the disruption caused by the Stagecoach workers’ strike.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated