[L]ast summer Eden Valley public transport into Penrith from the south consisted of a single weekly bus. During the 2018 summer holidays, the 563 Stagecoach service will provide three daily return journeys between Penrith and Appleby every weekday, adding to Cumbria Classic 574 Tuesday service from Kirkby Stephen. “The bus enables locals and tourists to spend a few mid-day hours in two great towns where there’s plenty to see and do”, say Ruth Bowen and Andy Connell of Friends of Eden Valley Public Transport. “We hope school-age youngsters will join them on the buses to Penrith and Appleby, instead of having to rely on lifts.
This summer they’ve got the opportunity of livening up their holidays with independent travel on the friendly and reliable 563 and 574 services. These two services also offer the opportunity for families to leave the car at home and enjoy the towns of Appleby and Penrith together”
Mark Whitelocks Managing Director for Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire said “Penrith and Appleby have a great deal to offer for both shoppers and tourists. Re-launched in September 2017, the 563 service provides an ideal link for locals and visitors alike. Given that there is no direct train link, you’d have to travel via Carlisle taking over 1hr at a cost of £13.30 return. The 563 bus takes less than 30min and cost £11.30 for an all-day ticket.
The success of the service so far would not have been possible without the strong partnership we have with the Friends of Eden Valley Public Transport, playing a huge part in helping to promote the service for local residents.”
For more information on Stagecoach UK Bus visit www.stagecoachbus.com
