Leicestershire Unveils Free Weekend Bus Travel This August – Explore More for Less, Here Is Everything You Need To Know

Published on July 23, 2025

Travel is about discovering new places, immersing yourself in local culture, and making memories without worrying about transportation costs. Understanding this, Leicestershire County Council announced a new initiative offering free weekend bus services throughout August, making travel easier, more affordable, and environmentally friendly for residents and tourists alike.

Which Routes are Included?

Visitors and locals can enjoy entirely free travel on all weekends in August for select bus routes within Melton Mowbray and Market Harborough. Additionally, numerous Saturday-only services will connect popular destinations such as Leicester city centre, Loughborough, Hinckley, Coalville, Uppingham, and Oakham in Rutland.

Travelers will particularly benefit from unrestricted access to the MC services in Melton Mowbray and HC services within Market Harborough. Moreover, a total of 16 LC bus routes and the FoxConnect on-demand bus services will operate free every Saturday in August, making even spontaneous trips effortlessly accessible.

An important note for those considering traveling between Coalville and Hinckley: the LC6 service will be free exclusively on Saturday, 30th August.

Supporting Local Attractions and Businesses

The main objective behind this generous initiative is not only to make transportation affordable but also to encourage people to explore local attractions and support community businesses. From historical sites and lush gardens to bustling shopping centres, free weekend buses enable tourists and locals to visit places they might otherwise miss.

Popular attractions easily reachable via these free bus routes include:

• Bradgate Park: Ideal for families seeking an enjoyable outdoor experience amidst nature.
• Twycross Zoo: Perfect for animal lovers eager to see rare species from around the world.
• Fosse Park: Offering a variety of shopping experiences for visitors and locals.
• Gates Garden Centre: Providing gardening enthusiasts with inspiration and shopping opportunities.
• 1620s House and Garden: Allowing visitors to step back in time and explore local history.

This improved connectivity will notably boost local businesses, including cafes, restaurants, and retail stores, contributing positively to Leicestershire’s economic vitality.

Environmental Benefits and Sustainable Travel

Apart from encouraging tourism and local business growth, Leicestershire County Council emphasized the environmental benefits of utilizing public transportation. By promoting bus travel, the council aims to significantly reduce vehicle emissions, ultimately improving air quality and fostering sustainable habits among residents and tourists.

Charles Whitford, the lead member for highways and transport at the council, highlighted this initiative as an exciting chance for residents and visitors to try new bus services while contributing positively to the environment.

Quick Tips for Travelers and Tourists

To maximize your weekend adventures in Leicestershire this August, keep these travel tips in mind:

• Plan Ahead: Review bus timetables online through Leicestershire County Council’s official transport page to avoid delays and ensure smooth journeys.
• Early Travel: Popular attractions can get crowded. Aim for earlier travel to avoid peak times.
• Explore New Areas: Use this opportunity to visit attractions and towns you haven’t explored before.
• Eco-Friendly Choices: Consider carrying reusable bottles, snacks, and bags to further reduce environmental impact during your travels.
• Stay Informed: Regularly check updates on Leicestershire County Council’s official website or social media channels for route adjustments and travel alerts.

Enhancing Tourist Experiences

For tourists, especially families, groups, and budget-conscious visitors, this free travel initiative opens up remarkable possibilities. It removes the barriers posed by travel costs and allows tourists to more comfortably discover the hidden gems of Leicestershire. From vibrant town centres and tranquil countryside escapes to rich cultural landmarks, travelers can freely indulge in diverse experiences.

Positive Implications for Business Travel

While primarily aimed at leisure travel, this initiative also positively impacts business travelers. Free weekend travel options provide business visitors the flexibility to explore local offerings or combine professional visits with leisure activities, enhancing their overall travel experience.

Leicestershire Welcomes You

Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, August presents an ideal time to explore Leicestershire affordably and sustainably. With free weekend bus travel available, there’s no better moment to discover the charm, heritage, and lively community spirit that the county has to offer.

Take advantage of this exceptional opportunity, reduce your carbon footprint, and embrace the adventure of exploring Leicestershire from a new perspective.