New service X52 to connect Oxford, Witney and Cheltenham from 29th March 2026 

We’re delighted to be launching our new Pulhams X52 service between Oxford, Witney, Burford, Andoversford and Cheltenham from 29th March 2026, replacing Stagecoach service S2 from this date. The new service offers faster journey times and excellent connections across Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds. This service is being introduced thanks to financial support from Oxfordshire County Council and Gloucestershire County Council. 

Timetable and map 

Buses will run up to every 2 hours Monday to Saturday daytime, and two return journeys will operate on Sundays until May, when an enhanced summer timetable will operate with buses operating up to every 2 hours. 

View the X52 timetable here (valid from 29th March 2026) 

View the X52 route map here (valid from 29th March 2026) 

Faster journeys between Oxford and Witney 

Service X52 will provide faster journeys, with all services operating limited-stop between Witney and Oxford, calling only at: 

Explore beautiful towns and attractions along the route 

The X52 is a brilliant way to get around and explore this stunning part of the Cotswolds, or to head straight into Oxford or Cheltenham for shopping, sightseeing or events. 

Cheltenham 

Proudly showing off its Regency charm, Cheltenham offers a unique blend of heritage, culture and great shopping. Enjoy street‑food markets, festivals, Michelin‑recommended dining, the Wilson art gallery, and the elegant Montpellier district. 

Northleach 

A peaceful Cotswold market town with medieval streets and historic buildings. Its magnificent church – St Peter and St Paul – is known as the Cathedral of the Cotswolds, and the nearby Old Prison offers a fascinating insight into local history. 

Burford 

One of the most iconic towns in the Cotswolds, with a broad, historic high street lined with traditional stone houses and shops. Visit the Tolsey Museum, stroll down to the River Windrush, and soak up the timeless charm of this beautiful town. 

Witney 

A lively market town with a friendly atmosphere. Explore independent shops and cafés, the historic Buttercross, twice‑weekly markets and Cogges Manor Farm, a lovely heritage attraction showing traditional rural life. 

Eynsham 

A welcoming village with local pubs, green spaces and great walking routes, ideal for taking a break or exploring the surrounding countryside. 

Summertown 

A vibrant area of north Oxford with boutique shops, cafés and eateries — and an easy hop into Oxford city centre. 

Oxford 

Matthew Arnold’s famous “city of dreaming spires” is full of world‑class attractions. Climb Carfax Tower for incredible views, explore the Ashmolean Museum, wander the Botanic Gardens, browse the Covered Market or join a City Sightseeing Oxford walking tour or open‑top bus tour. 

Onward connections across the Cotswolds 

Change at Witney for: 

• X9 to Charlbury, Chadlington & Chipping Norton 

• X15 to Abingdon & Millets Farm 

Change at Andoversford for: 

• 801 to Bourton-on-the-Water, Moreton-in-Marsh and Chipping Norton 

Change at Northleach for: 

• 855 to Bourton‑on‑the‑Water and Bibury 

Change at Cheltenham for: 

• Onward travel across Gloucestershire 

FAQs 

What is the X52 bus service? 

The X52 is a new bus service operating between Cheltenham, Andoversford, Northleach, Burford, Witney, Eynsham, Summertown and Oxford, launching on 29th March 2026. It replaces the former Stagecoach S2 service from this date. 

When does the X52 replace the S2? 

The X52 takes over from Stagecoach S2 on 29th March 2026.  

Who operates the X52? 

The X52 is operated by Pulhams Coaches, with comfortable, high‑quality vehicles. 

How can I track the X52 bus? 

You can track X52 buses using the Pulhams app, the Oxford Bus app, or via the Oxford Bus website.  

What towns and villages does the X52 stop at? 

The X52 connects Cheltenham, Andoversford, Northleach, Burford, Witney, Eynsham, Summertown, and Oxford City Centre (Gloucester Green Bus Station).  

How often does the X52 run? 

Buses run up to every 2 hours Monday to Saturday daytime, and two return journeys operate on Sundays until May, when an enhanced summer timetable will operate with buses operating up to every 2 hours. Exact departure times vary by location, view the full timetable above for details. 

Is the X52 good for days out in the Cotswolds? 

Absolutely! The route connects you to some of the most popular Cotswold destinations including Burford, Northleach, and Cheltenham, with onward links to Bourton‑on‑the‑Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bibury, Charlbury and Chipping Norton. 

Does the X52 connect with other bus services? 

Yes, you can connect from the X52 to other services including the X9 to Chipping Norton, X15 to Abingdon, 855 to Bourton-on-the-Water and 801 to Stow-on-the-Wold. 

Where does the X52 go in Oxford? 

In Oxford, the X52 calls at Canterbury Road, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Magdalen Street East and Gloucester Green Bus Station 

Are the X52 buses accessible? 

Yes, all X52 buses are low‑floor and wheelchair accessible, making travel easier for passengers with mobility needs, prams or luggage. 

Where can I buy tickets for the X52? 

You can buy tickets on board, or by using the Pulhams app, the Oxford Bus app or the Oxford Bus website. 

How much does a single journey cost on the X52? 

The X52 service is included in the £3 single fare cap, meaning you can travel between Cheltenham, Northleach, Burford, Witney, Eynsham, Summertown and Oxford for no more than £3 for any single journey. 

Can I use the X52 for commuting to Oxford? 

Yes, the X52 provides a fast, direct connection into Oxford from Witney, Burford, Northleach and Cheltenham, ideal for commuters, students or shoppers.