Improved bus service to benefit pupils during new school year

School pupils can benefit from one of Pulhams’ recently improved bus services during the new academic year.

The L service stops near Cheltenham College, Cheltenham Ladies’ College, Cleeve School and Pate’s Grammar School, and runs up to every 30 minutes.

Journeys are timed to meet the start and finish times of schools along the route, with the 2026/27 academic year providing the opportunity to explore the new connections.

Initially launched in May, the L route provides a frequent, cross-Cheltenham link between Leckhampton, Cheltenham, Rowanfield, Coronation Square and Bishop’s Cleeve.

Matthew Wooll, Commercial Manager at Pulhams, said: “Now that the new school year is starting, we’re looking forward to welcoming back passengers and introducing new customers.

“Tickets for those aged 18 or under include a day ticket for £3.50, a week for £14, and four weeks for £51.50.

“These provide unlimited travel in the Cheltenham area so are great for journeys after school or at the weekend. There is also a 12-trip ticket for £19.50, which is less than £1.70 per journey.

“As we look ahead to the remainder of 2026, we are keen to chat to local businesses and establish new connections to help further improve connectivity in the area.”

Mr Wooll joined Pulhams last month following seven and a half years in strategy and development roles for sustainable travel at Heathrow Airport.

He is responsible for the planning and development of the Pulhams network in Gloucestershire and the neighbouring counties, and has extensive experience in the public transport sector.

Pulhams has enjoyed continued growth and improvement throughout 2026, and in March, unveiled 15 electric buses and depot enhancements following a £8.17 million investment.

At the end of July, Pulhams launched a Freeflow tap on, tap off contactless payment system, allowing quicker, easier journeys for passengers paying adult fares.

This year has also seen the launch of the X52 service between Cheltenham and Oxford, while enhancements have been made to the long-established 801 service, and the 40 shuttle bus service to and from the Cotswolds Designer Outlet near Tewkesbury.