From 1 January to 31 December 2027, eligible single bus fares on participating services in England outside London will be capped at £2. The Government announced the change in July 2026.

The new cap reduces the current £3 maximum by up to a third. Some fares may already cost less than the cap. The Government says it is providing £400 million in additional funding for the fare cap, plus funding for the devolved governments.

Cheaper Journeys on High Peak Buses

Eligible passengers on participating High Peak Buses services should pay no more than £2 for a qualifying single journey when the new cap takes effect. Check the operator’s latest information for participating routes.

The scheme will replace the existing £3 fare cap and ensure that eligible single bus fares on participating services cost no more than £2. It will particularly benefit passengers making longer distance journeys, including those in rural and coastal communities, where fares can often be significantly higher.

Popular High Peak services connect Buxton with towns and villages across Derbyshire and the wider region, including routes towards:

  • Bakewell and Matlock
  • Glossop and New Mills
  • Macclesfield
  • Manchester Airport
  • Ashbourne
  • Derby (via Transpeak services at Matlock)

The lower fare could make travelling by bus a more affordable option for days out, shopping trips, appointments and journeys to work or college.

The £2 maximum applies to eligible single journeys on participating services; a cheaper fare can still be charged. Return, multi-bus, daily and weekly tickets are not covered by the single-fare cap. Compare ticket options for your journey, and check the operator’s conditions.

Explore Buxton and the Peak District by Bus

Buxton is well connected by bus to several popular destinations across the Peak District, making it possible to enjoy a day out without taking the car.

Services from the town provide access to walking routes, visitor attractions, historic villages and neighbouring towns. Travelling by bus can also help reduce parking pressures at busy destinations while allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery along the way.

Save More with Your Bus Ticket

In summer 2026, a promotion offered discounts at selected local businesses to passengers showing a valid High Peak Buses ticket.

Participating offers have included discounts at:

  • Buxton Crescent Experience
  • Hargreaves of Buxton
  • The Square Tea Rooms
  • Poole’s Cavern and Buxton Country Park

Offers may change, so it is advisable to check the latest details and terms before visiting.

When Will the £2 Fare Cap Begin?

The £2 cap is due to run from 1 January to 31 December 2027. Until then, the existing £3 cap applies to eligible single fares on participating services in England outside London. Check the Government’s current list of participating services.

Further information about eligible routes and how the new scheme will operate is expected to be published by the Government and individual bus operators before its launch.

Check High Peak Buses for the latest fares, routes and timetable information.

Derbyshire County Council says children under 16 can generally pay no more than £1.50 for eligible single bus journeys starting or finishing in Derbyshire, including Derby. Children may be asked for a b_line1 card to confirm their age. Eligible Derbyshire residents aged 16 to 18 with a b_line2 card can also get a £1.50 maximum single fare. Check card eligibility and route conditions; exceptions apply.

As a general rule, children under 5 travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult, but eligibility may vary by operator – check with the driver when boarding.