Tourism in the Lake District could face challenges if the current £3 bus fare limit is removed. Local businesses are worried that higher bus fares might discourage staff from using public transport, affecting employment and punctuality.
A recent survey by Cumbria Tourism found that 80% of employers are concerned about the removal of the fare cap. Nearly all respondents said they used the affordable £2 or £3 fares for commuting, leisure, or work. More than 40% of people said they did not use buses before these fare caps were introduced in 2024, with cost being a major barrier.
The Lake District attracts about 18 million visitors annually, making it one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations. The £2 fare cap was introduced in 2024 and increased to £3 in early 2025. However, there is no certainty that this cap will remain after this year.
Cumbria Tourism continues to work with local businesses, authorities, and transport providers to keep bus services accessible for workers. Rising fares could impact not only tourism but also the local economy if staff find it harder to travel to their jobs.