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Back for 2026! The Ullswater Hopper Bus Service

Operated by Stagecoach, the Ullswater Bus serves visitors, residents and employees Ullswater bus logo of local businesses. 

The 508 and 509 services provide direct links to Ullswater from Windermere, The Ullswater Bus service is being provided as part of the drive for more sustainable transport and reduced private vehicle traffic in the Ullswater Valley; improving connections between where people are and where they wish to be within the valley. The two minibuses, UB1 and UB2, are complimented by the 509 service and connect with the 508 and the X4 and X5.

The UB1 and UB2 service will operate from 28 March to 1 November 2026 at weekends and Bank Holidays and will additionally run a daily service between 25 to 29 May (Whit Week) and every day throughout July to September inclusive. 
 
The 509 service will run daily from 23 March to 1 November 2026.

The flagship Ullswater Hopper, the UB1 and UB2, connects holiday accommodation around the valley and destinations such as Pooley Bridge, Aira Force, Howtown, Lowther Castle and Ullswater Steamers’ piers.

This service will operate from 28 March to 1 November 2026 at weekends and Bank Holidays and will additionally run a daily service between 25-29 May (Whit Week) and every day throughout July to September inclusive. 
 
The 509 runs from Penrith – Rheged – Dalemain – Pooley Bridge – Aira Force – Dockray – Troutbeck and on to Keswick.  It also runs from Hartsop – Patterdale – Glenridding – Aira Force – Dockray – Troutbeck and on to Keswick.
 
These routes connect with onward transport services already in place such as the 508 (Penrith to Windermere) and X4 and X5 (Penrith to Keswick and the west coast).

All the buses are dog friendly, and are included in the Government’s National Bus Fare Cap Scheme meaning that in 2026 you will pay £3 for a single ticket. Children under 5 and English concessionary bus pass holders travel free. Wheelchair space is available and there are USB sockets at every seat.

Tickets can be bought with cash and card from the driver on board the bus. In addition combined bus and boat tickets can be purchased for a trip involving both Ullswater Steamers and buses. Fixed price day, 3-day and 7-day tickets are also available on board to help you make the most of the bus, as are group day tickets – an economic option for up to 5 people travelling together.  Tickets may also be purchased via the Stagecoach website or app.