Getting Around Greater Manchester Becomes Easier Over Christmas and New Year
Travellers in Greater Manchester will see a noticeable change in how easy it is to move around during the festive period, as Bee Network buses operate full services on both Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. For the first time since local control was introduced, buses will continue running later into the evening across the region, giving visitors and residents more flexibility when planning seasonal trips, shopping, and evening activities.
In contrast to previous years, when services on 24 and 31 December often ended early, Bee Network buses will operate closer to their usual schedules during the festive period, with key changes spread across several dates:
- Christmas Eve: services largely follow normal weekday timetables, with most routes running until their regular evening finish times
- New Year’s Eve: buses operate to a Saturday schedule, including late evening journeys on selected routes
- Boxing Day and New Year’s Day: enhanced bus timetables run on a number of routes, supported by frequent tram services
- Christmas Day: tram services are paused, while buses follow separate holiday arrangements
Reaching festive places by public transport
The extended timetables make festive attractions in central Manchester easier to reach by public transport. Bus routes such as the 17 and 135 connect directly to Shudehill and Piccadilly Gardens, placing travellers within walking distance of Christmas markets, winter events, and late-opening shops. Trams stopping at St Peter’s Square also provide simple access to seasonal light displays and evening performances without the need to leave early.
Beyond the city centre, public transport opens up other winter destinations. Route 53 provides a direct connection between Salford Shopping Centre and MediaCityUK, making it easier for travellers to reach the waterfront, winter events, and nearby places to eat without relying on a car. The 52 connects Trafford Centre with Salford and Eccles, offering access to large indoor shopping areas that remain popular during the colder festive period.
This change simply makes holiday travel easier to plan and less stressful overall. When buses and trams run later, there is less need to rush evenings or worry about missing the last service home. This gives visitors more time to stay out, move between areas, and experience Greater Manchester during the holidays without constantly checking the clock.