Discover Greater Manchester’s Integrated Bee Network: How It Will Transform Tourism and Travel in 2026

Published on December 12, 2025

Greater Manchester’s transport network is set to undergo a major transformation, making travel easier and more efficient for both locals and tourists. Spearheaded by Mayor Andy Burnham, the Bee Network, which integrates buses, trams, and trains, is expected to enhance the city’s accessibility and boost its tourism sector. Starting in December 2026, the first Northern train will join the Bee Network, simplifying travel for visitors exploring the region.

This new initiative will see Greater Manchester’s buses, trams, and trains all operating under a single, integrated system. The Bee Network, which already features buses and trams with bright yellow branding, will now extend this colour scheme to trains, making the entire transport network instantly recognizable. This change will offer tourists a seamless travel experience, allowing them to use one payment system across all forms of transport, reducing the hassle of multiple tickets or passes.

For tourists visiting Manchester, the Bee Network will make it easier to explore the city’s top attractions, including its world-famous museums, shopping districts, and sporting venues. With the introduction of tap-in, tap-out ticketing, visitors can simply tap their bank card or a travel app to board any form of public transport, eliminating the need for complex ticket purchases. This user-friendly system will make it much simpler for tourists to travel across Greater Manchester, whether they are headed to the Museum of Science and Industry, Old Trafford, or the picturesque Heaton Park.

Mayor Andy Burnham highlighted the significance of this project for both residents and visitors. He said that the integration of rail services into the Bee Network would create a “fully integrated, world-class transport system” that would open up new opportunities for Greater Manchester’s residents and make it more attractive to tourists. As part of the plan, new services at Manchester Airport and improved station facilities will be rolled out, ensuring that visitors arriving from the airport will have a smoother journey into the city.

In addition to these enhancements, the Bee Network will improve accessibility for disabled passengers at key transport stations. With better facilities and clearer signage, the initiative aims to make travel more inclusive for everyone, ensuring that tourists with disabilities can easily navigate the transport system and enjoy all that Greater Manchester has to offer.

The integration of rail services into the Bee Network is just the beginning, with further expansions planned for 2027 and 2028. New train lines will be added, further enhancing the city’s transport network and connecting Greater Manchester to nearby towns and cities. This expansion will make it even easier for tourists to explore the wider region, helping to boost local tourism and attract more visitors.

The British government has been supportive of the project, with Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy praising the efforts of local leaders to improve the transport system. He noted that the reforms would create a “fairer, more prosperous transport network” that would benefit both locals and visitors. This local leadership, backed by government support, will help position Greater Manchester as a more accessible and attractive destination for tourists from both the UK and abroad.

Tricia Williams, the Managing Director of Northern, which operates the region’s trains, emphasized the shared vision of a “reliable and inclusive railway” that would meet the needs of the entire region. She highlighted that the network’s expansion would open up new opportunities for economic growth, including increased tourism and a stronger local economy.

For tourists, this means a more convenient and enjoyable visit to Greater Manchester. The ease of travel, combined with better access to attractions, will make the city a more appealing option for short breaks and longer stays alike. Whether visitors are coming for the cultural events, the shopping, or the sports, the Bee Network will ensure that getting around is as simple and enjoyable as possible.

The integration of the Bee Network represents a significant step forward for Greater Manchester’s transport system, making it more accessible and convenient for tourists. With seamless connections between buses, trams, and trains, visitors will have an easier time exploring the city and surrounding areas. As the network continues to grow, Greater Manchester will not only become a more connected city but also a more attractive destination for tourists, cementing its position as a must-visit location in the UK.