Trip to Leicester / Hamilton 03-01-2026

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
3119	Leicester Haymarket BS	Hamilton, Tesco	58	Arriva Midlands
2949	Hamilton, Tesco	Leicester Haymarket BS	58A	Arriva Midlands
63538	Leicester Haymarket BS	Beaumont Leys, Stop G	26	First Leicester
63564	Beaumont Leys, Stop C	Leicester, Chuch Gate	74	First Leicester
4560	Leicester St Margarets BS	Leicester, Opp Foss Road Corner	29A	Arriva Midlands
63564	Leicester, opp The Blackbird	Leicester, Stand BE	74	First Leicester

Today we decided to re-visit Leicester. We did very little research for this trip other than to check the available bus tickets and to check the weather. The weather was forecast for cold, dry and with some sunshine. Matthew woke up at 08:00 and had his medication. We got up at 10:30 and Matthew had toast and orange juice for breakfast. After getting dressed we set off around 12:00 to pick up uncle Dave. We got in the car and we set off through Blurton and we ran along Beaconsfield Drive and we turned left onto Church Road and at the roundabout we veered left onto Blurton Road past the former Coral shop which is new going to be flats. We ran through Blurton and into Heron Cross and over the A50. At Heron Cross lights we turned left onto Grove Road. We ran forwards onto Wheildon Road and we picked up uncle Dave. Once we had picked up uncle Dave, we continued back up Wheildon Road and we ran forwards onto Grove Road. We turned right onto Blurton Road and at the roundabout we joined the Eastbound A50. We ran through Longton and into Meir. We turned left onto the A520 and right onto Woodville Road. We turned left onto Westwood Road and right onto Stansmore Road. We ran to the end and we stopped outside a cafe. We went in and ordered food. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a can of Dr Pepper. After we had finished eating Matthew used the toilet and we got back into the car. We set off along Stansmore Road and we turned right onto Brookwood Drive. We ran clockwise around the loop and we turned left onto Pipers View. We crossed over Meir Square and we ran forwrds onto Woodville Road. We turned left onto the A520 and we turned left onto the A50. We headed Eastwards and past Meir Park. We turned right to continued along the Blythe Bridge bypass and we went near to uttoxeter and we continued along the A50, passing an unidentified Country Lion coach. We ran to the end of the A50 and we joined the Southbound M1. As we travelled Southwards we passed 2 unidentified Skills coaches heading Northwards. We came off M1 at junction 22 and we ran Southwards down the A50. At the edge of Leicester we ran forwards onto Woodgate and we turned left onto Abbey Gate. We turned right onto Ravensbridge Drive and we turned right onto the Southbound A6. We turned left onto Burley Way and at the roundabout we turned right onto Belgrave Gate. We ran past the end of Haymarket bus station and we entered the car park. After parking up we took the lift down into the Haymarket Shopping centre. We came out of the wrong side of the shopping centre onto Belgrave Gate. We turned right onto Humberstone Gate and we headed back into the shopping centre. We turned right and we came out on Charles Street. As we entered the bus station we saw Centrebus 5003 arrive on a #22A service.

Centrebus 5003 in Leicester bus station

We went into the bus station and Matthew used the toilet. As it was getting quite late we decided to catch out quite quickly. We walked down the bus station looking for a bus we could catch. We decided to do a #58. As we got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 3119 on a #58 Hamilton circular service.

Arriva Midlands 3119 in Leicester bus station

We got on the bus and we booked a Flexi day ticket at £6.30. The bus was empty so Matthew took a picture inside Arriva Midlands 3119 before we sat down towards the back of the bus.

Inside Arriva Midlands 3119

The bus set off out of the bus station and we turned sharp right onto Charles Street and we turned left onto Humberstone Gate. We ran forwards onto Humberstone Road and we headed North Eastwards up the A47. We turned left onto Forest Road and we ran forwards onto Hastngs Road. We turned right onto Tailby Avenue and we turned left onto Wycombe Road. We veered left onto Humberstone Drive and we turned right onto Greenland Drive. We turned left onto Tennis Court Drive and we turned right onto Main Street. We ran forwards onto Steins Lane and we crossed over Hungertob Boulevard and onto Netherall Road. We ran through Netherall and we turned left onto New Romney Crescent. We turned left onto Hamilton Lane and we headed Northwards. We turned left onto Keyham Lane West and we headed Westward. We ran forwards onto Keyham Lane and we continued onto Preston Rise. We crossed the roundabout and we went into Tesco where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew got another picture of Arriva Midlands 3119 before into continued on the #58 to Leicester.

Arriva Midlands 3119 in Hamilton

Once off the bus we decided to head int Tesco for supplies. We picked up some Bakewell Slices and a bottle of Coke. After paying for the goods we headed back to the bus stops. As we approached there was already a bus there. We got closer and we saw it was Arriva Midlands 2949 on a #58A to Leicester.

Arriva Midlands 2949 in Hamilton

We got on the bus and we placed the Flexi Day ticket under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of Tesco and we crossed the roundabout onto Preston Rise. We ran forwards onto Keyham Lane and we continued onto Keyham Lane West. We turned right omnto Hamilton ane and we turned right onto New Romney Crescent. We turned right onto Netherhall Road and we ran through Netherall. We ran past McDonalds and we crossed over the A563 onto Steins Lane. We continued onto Main Street and we turned left onto Tennis Court Drive. We turned right onto Greenland Drive and left onto Humberstone Drive. We turned right onto Wycombe Road and right onto Tailby Avenue. We turned left onto Hastings Road and we ran forwards onto Forest Road. We turned right onto the A47 and we ran under the railway line. We crossed the roundabout onto Humberstone Road and we continued onto Humberstone Gate. We turned right onto Charles Street and we entered Haymarket bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we had a quick walk around. We headed out of the bus station and we saw Arriva Midlands 3813 on a #44 to South Wigston.

Arriva Midlands 3813 in Leicester bus station

We crossed over Charles Street and Matthew decided he needed cake. We went into the cake shop and Matthew had red velvet cake with a scoop of ice cream. After Matthew had finished his dessert we headed back into the bus station. It was 16:00 and we had only had 2 buses so we decided to catch something quickly. We decided to go in a direction we had been before anf head to The Beaumont Centre. As we got to the stop we saw it was First Leicester 63538 on a #26 to Beaumont Leys.

First Leicester 63538 in Leicester bus station

We got on the bus and we flashed the Flexi Day Tickets to the driver before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto Belgrave Gate and we went under the flyover onto the A607. We turned left onto Abbey Park Road and we ran forwards on to Blackbird and we turned right onto Parker Drive. We turned left onto Somerset Drive and we headed Westwards. We turned left onto Cheltenham Road and left onto Heacham Drive. After a long run through the estate we ran forwards onto Strasbourg Drive. We crossed the A563 and we ran forwards onto Orwell Drive. At the roundabout we turned right onto Rutherford Rood an we stopped at the Beaumont Centre where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of First Leicester 65538 before it returned to Leicester on the #26.

First Leicester 63538 in Beaumont Centre

We turned down First Leicester 63501 on a #25 to Leicester and we decided to wait for the following bus on the #74. A short time later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Leicester 63564 on a #74 to Leicester St Margaret's

First Leicester 63564 in Beaumont Centre

We got on the bus and we flashed the Flexi Day Tickets to the driver before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off Southwards down Orwell Drive and we crossed over the A563. We ran onto Strasbourg Drive and we ran forwards onto Heavham Drive. We turned right onto Calverhey Road and we turned left onto the Southbound B5327. We crossed over Blackbird Road and we turned right onto the Southbound A6. We crossed the river and the grand Union Canal and we ran into the City Centre. We ran forwards onto Church Gate and as there was a traffic problem on Gravel Street, the driver let everyone off here. Once off the bus bus we headed into St Margaret's bus station. We want to catch out quickly again. We promised Matthew we do one more round trip and visit a pub. Alomost immediately we spotted a bus we could catch. As we got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 4560 on a #29A to Coalville.

Arriva Midlands 4560 in Leicester bus station

We got on the bus and we flashed the Flexi Day Tickets to the driver before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and went onto the A594. We turned right onto the A6 and left onto Sanvey Gate. We turned right onto the A50 and we headed Northwards. We crossed the Grand Union Canal and the river and we crossed Blackbvird Road where we decided to get up and get off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 4560 as it continued towards Swadlincote.

Arriva Midlands 4560 in Leicester

We crossed over the A50 and we walked Northwards up Blackbird Road until we came to the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and I ordered the drinks. We met up again and we sat down. Matthew had a small Coke and we sat and had our drinks. When we had finished we went out to get a bus back into Leicester. We crossed the B5327 and we walked to a stop. The bus that we went to catch disappeared from the map. We walked arounbd the corner thinkking we culd catch a #26. Bur we realised that it was a circular and it was going away from the City. The #25 in the opposite direction wasn't for a while. We walked back onto the B5327 and we waited for a bus. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Leicester 63564 on a #74 to Leicester.

First Leicester 63564 in Leicester

We got on the bus and we flashed the Flexi Day Tickets to the driver before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off along the B5327 and we crossed over Blackbird Road and we turned right onto the Southbound A6. We crossed the river and the grand Union Canal and we ran into the City Centre. We turned left onto Burley Way and we turned right onto Belgrave Gate. We got in the traffic issue again. It turned out to be a coach broken down in the entrance to St Margaret's bus station. We turned right onto Abbey Street and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took a pictre of First Leicester 63564.

First Leicester 63564 in Leicester

Also seen was Central Connect 202 on a ND service to New Lubbersthorpe.

Central Connect 202 in Leicester

Amother vehicle see was Arriva Midlands 8044 on a #127 to Shepshed.

Arriva Midlands 8044 in Leicester

We started crossing belgrave gate and we saw Arriva Midlands 7204 on a X6 to Coventry.

Arriva Midlands 7204 in Leicester

We walked along Charles Street and we headed into the shopping centre and we we got in the lift. We met mum and went to the car. Once in the car we set off to a chip shop. We ran out of the car park and we turned right onto Belgrave Gate. We crossed the roundabout and we continued Northwards. At the next roundabout we turned left onto Abbey Park Road. We ran forwards onto Blackbird Road and we follwed it to the left. We turned right onto Groby Road and right onto Medina Road. We turned right onto Buckminster Road and we parked up near to the chip shop. I went to the chip shop and bought food. Matthew had sausage chips and gravy washed down with a can of Vimto. When I had finished eating we set off onto Buckminster Road and left onto Medina Road. We turned right onto the A50 and we headed out for Leicester. We crossed the A563 and the A46 and we continued out of the city. after around 8 mile we joined the Northbound M1. As be travelled Northwards we were past by East Yorkshire 17 and Fernhill Travel YD24 ERK. We came off the M1 at junction 24 and as we reached the roundabout we caught up the 2 coaches. We saw East Yorkshire 20017 on a National Express #451 service to Hull.

East Yorkshire 20017 in Kegworth

Also seen was Fernhill Travel YD24 ERK.

Fernhill Travel YD24 ERK in Kegworth

We ran across the roundabout and we ran onto the Westbound A50. We crossed the A515 roundabout and we continued towards Uttoxeter. We ran along the Uttoxeter bypass before continuing Westwards along the A50. We ran through Meir and Longton and we came off the A50 at Heron Cross. We turned right onto Blurton Road and left onto Grove Road. We ran forwards onto Wheildon Road and we stopped at uncle Dave's. Matthew used the toilet and had some of uncle Rob's orange Fanta. Matthew filled in the calendar and we got back into the car. We said goodbye and we set off onto Wheildon Road and we ran forwards onto Grove Road. We turned right onto Blurton Road and we crossed over the A50. We continued through Blurton. turned right onto Church Road and we turned right onto the A5035 and we got back to Blurton around 20:10. Matthew had his medication and afterwards chilled out on his computer. We wrote the Blog and also wrote an e-mail. Matthew had a can of Cherry Coke and a Bakewll Slice. Matthew went to bed arounbd 00:30... Mark

Trip to Milton Keynes / Luton 17-08-2024

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
3123	Bletchley Tesco	Milton Keynes, Summer	6	Arriva Shires
3124	Milton Keynes, Summer	Bletchley BS	4	Arriva Shires
3891	Bletchley BS	Leighton Buzzard	F77	Arriva Shires
3892	Leighton Buzzard	Luton Interchange	F77	Arriva Shires
708	Luton Interchange	Dunstable	Hi	Grant Palmer
3967	Dunstable	Luton Interchange	Z	Arriva Shires
3980	Luton Interchange	Bletchley BS	F70	Arriva Shires
3867	Bletchley BS	Bletchley Tesco	5	Arriva Shires

Today we were in Milton Keynes and we were going out on the bus. Matthew woke up just before 08:00 and had his medication. We went downstairs to have breakfast. Matthew had a full English breakfast with toasr washed down with orange juice. We went back up to the room to finish getting ready and around 10:00 we said goodbye to mum and we set off on foor to the bus stop. We walkd Westwards alogn Watling Street past Fenny Stratford railway station. We walked past Tesco and we went under the underpass. As we came up on the other side we saw a bus at the bus stop. As we got closer we saw it was Arriva Shires 3123 on a #6 to Wolverton.

Arriva Shires 3123 in Bletchley

We got on the bus and we booked an all zone duo Day ticket at £14 before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off along the B4034 and we crossed over the roundabout. We turned right onto Groveway and left onto Marlborough Street. We turned left onto the A421 and we turned right onto Saxon Street. We turned right onto Avebury Boulevards and we turned left onto the B4034. We turned left onto Summer Boulevard and we decided to get up and get off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Shires 3123 before it continued towards Wolverton.

Arriva Shires 3123 in Milton Keynes

We decided to take a few pictures whilst we decided on what bus to do next. We saw Stagecoach Midlands 15526 on a X91 to Silverstone.

Stagecoach Midlands 15526 in Milton Keynes

Also seen was Arriva Shires 3928 on a #1 to Milton Keynes.

Arriva Shires 3928 in Milton Keynes

We had a look at a route map and we decided to do a #4 to Bletchley bus station. As short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva Shires 3124 on a #4 to Bletchley.

Arriva Shires 3124 in Milton Keynes

We got on the bus and we placed the all zone duo Day ticket under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off along Summer Boulevard and we turned right onto the B4034 and left onto Avebury Boulevard. We turned left onto Lower Ninth Street and we turned right onto Midsummer Boulevard. We turned left onto Marlborough Gate and we turned right onto Avebury Boulevard and we turned right onto Enmore Gate. At the Enmore roundabout we went forwards onto Kenwood Gate. We turned right onto Springfield Boulevard and we turned left onto the B4034. We turned right onto the A421 and onto the A5. We turned left onto Denbigh Hall Drive and right onto Whaddon Way. We turned left onto the B4034 and up over Bletchley. As we travelled up we saw Tates NL24 EKE. At the roundabout we ran forwards onto the B4034 and we ran onto South Terrace and we entered the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew then took another picture of Arriva Shires 3124 before it carried on back to Milton Keynes.

Arriva Shires 3124 in Bletchley bus station

Once off the bus we walked out of the bus station and we walked Southwards down the B4034. We crossed over Duncpmbe Street and we visited the pub on the roundabout. Matthew went to the toilet and I ordered drinks for us all. We sat and had our drinks and when we were finished we walked back along the B4034 to the bus station. We decided to head out a bit further so we waited at the bottom stands for a bus towards Luton. We had around 15 minutes to wait for a F77 service. After a short wait the bus appeared. As it pulled on stand we saw it was Arriva The Shires 3891 on a F77 service to Luton Airport.

Arriva Shires 3891 in Bletchley bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the all zone duo Day ticket under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto the B40354 and we veered left onto Duncombe Street. We turned left onto Water Eaton Road and we headed out of town. We continued onto Stoke Road and we crossed over the A4146 and forwards onto Fenny Road. We continued into Stoke Hammond and we turned left onto Leighton Road. We passed the 3 locks pub and we turned right onto Stoke Road. We rejoined the Southbound A4146 and we turned left onto Leighton Road. We ran forwards onto Soulbury Road and we turned right onto Station Road. After a brief stop outside of Leighton Buzzard railway station we turned right onto Old Road. We crossed over the canal and the river Ouzel and we decided to get up and off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arrive The Shire 3891 as it continued towards Luton Airport.

Arriva Shires 3891 in Leighton Buzzard

Once off the bus we decided to head into the town centre. We crossed over the road and we walked through a passageway at the side of the car park. We spotted some toilet so Matthew used the toilet. The plan was now to get some dinner. We continued along the passageway through a brick archway onto High Street. We turned left and we spotted a Greggs. Matthew had a sausage roll and a jam heart bisuit washed down with a can of Diet Coke. when we had finished e walked back through the passageway and we crossed over West Street to the bus stop. We had just missed the F70 and we had 30 minutes to wait for the next bus Eastwards, a F70. We decided to go for a short walk. We walked along a path onto Bossard Court and we continued onto Doggett Street. We continued left to continued along Doggett Street and we turned left onto Bassett Road. When we got to the main road we sat on a bench in the shade of a tree. When the bus was due in 5 minutes we started to walk up West Street to the bus stop. As we walked towards the stop we were passed by the bus. We quickly walked to the stop and we saw it was Arriva The Shires 3892 on a F77 to Luton Airport.

Arriva Shires 3892 in Leighton Buzzard

We got on the bus and we placed the all zone duo Day ticket under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off Eastwards along West Street and ran forwards onto Leston Road. We ran forwards onto the A4012 and we headed South. We tuerned left onto Stabsbridge Road and we headed out of town. We continued onto Leighton Road and we ran forwards onto Billington Road. We turned left onto the A505 and we headed Eastwards. We travelled for a couple of miles and we turned right to follow the A505 into Dunstable. We ran into the centre of Dunstable and we turned left to follow the A505 and after around 1/4 mile we veered left onto the Dunstable - Luton busway. We turned right and crossed over the A505 and we ran fast along the busway for severla miles right to the heart of Luton. We crossed over Telford Way and we crossed over New Bedford Road before we entered Luton Interchange. We decided to get of the bus here. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva The Shires 3892 before it continued to Luton Airport.

Arriva Shires 3892 in Luton Interchange

Once of the bus we had a bit of a look around. We saw Arriva Shires 7215 on a #757 to Luton Airport.

Arriva Shires 7215 in Luton Interchange

Behind this was Arriva The Shires 3878 on a #100 to Stevenage. We cut though the path on to Bute Street and we went to the pub. Matthew went to the toilet with uncle Dave and I ordered the drinks. Matthew had a glass of Coke. When we had finished we walked back up the passageway to the Interchnage. We had a look around to see what we might catch. We saw Centrebus 636 on a B to Dunstable.

Centrebus 636 in Luton Interchange

Also seen was Stagecoach Midlands 10881 on a MK1 to Bedford.

Stagecoach Midlands 10881 in Luton Interchange

We decided to head back towards dunstable on something slong the busway. As short time later we a bua pproaching the stand. It was Grant Palmer 708 on a Hi service to Houghton Regis.

Grant Palmer 708 in Luton Interchange

We got on the bus and we booked singles to Dunstable at £2 each before we went upstairs and sat down. We set off out of the Interchange and we crossed over New Bedford Road and we crossed over Telford Way. We ran fast along the busway for several miles right to the edge of Dunstable. We crossed over College Drive and we ran forwards onto Court Drive and we crossed over Vernon Place. We turned right onto Queensway and we turned left onto the A505 and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Grant Palmer 708 as it continued towards Houghton Regis.

Grant Palmer 708 in Dunstable

Once of the bus we discussed with Matthew going back to Luton and getting an ice cream. We decided to do another bus olong the busway and there was one approaching the stop. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva Shires 3967 on a Z service to Luton.

Arriva Shires 3967 in Dunstable

We got on the bus and we placed the all zone duo Day ticket under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. It turned out that this was going in a loop and would take a bit longer than the A service. We set off along the A505 and we turned left to follow the A505. We veered left and we joined the busway. Instead of turning right this service turns left and heads away from Luton first! We came to the Western end of the busway and we ran forwards onto Blackburn Road into Houghton Regis. We turned left onto Townsend Farm Road and right onto the B5120. We ran forwards onto High Street and we turned left onto Tithe Farm Road. As we approached parkside we turned right onto Hillborough Crescent and left onto Sundon Road. We turned right onto Parkside Drive and we at the roundabout we went clockwise around the Parkside Drive loop. We turned right onto the A5505 and we turned left onto Wheatfield Road. We turned right onto Tomlinson Avenue and we headeded through Lewsey Farm. We turned left onto Leagrave High Street and we turned right onto Lewsey Road past the Luton & Dunstable University Hospital. We turned left onto the A505 and we ran under the M1. We turned right onto Chaul End Way before we past the retail park and turned left onto the Eastbound busway. We ran fast for the last mile and 1/2 into Luton. We crossed over Telford way and New Bedford Road and we entered the Interchange from the Western end. We got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we went in search of ice cream! We cut through the passage way onto Bute Street and we found a Premier shop. Matthew had a flake ice cream and a bottle of Dr Pepper. We went outside and we spoted a bus at the bus stop on Silver Street. We saw Arriva The Shire 3135 on a #27 to Marsh Farm.

Arriva Shires 3135 in Luton

We set off back towards the Interchnage and Matthew had his ice cream. When we got back to the Interchnage we took a few pictyre before heading back towards Bletchley. We saw Arriva The Shires 3780 on a #100 to Stevenage.

Arriva Shires 3780 in Luton Interchange

Also seen was Arriva The Shires 3946 on a #321 to Watford.

Arriva Shires 3946 in Luton Interchange

We headed towards the appropriate stop and as we walked towards it we saw a bus pull on stand. As we got closer we saw it was Arriva Shires 3980 on a F70 to Milton Keynes.

Arriva Shires 3980 in Luton Interchange

We got on the bus and we placed the all zone duo Day ticket under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the Interchange. We crosssed over New Bedford Road and we ran forwards onto the busway. We crossed over Telford Way and we ran fast for around 4 miles to the edge of Dunstable. We crossed over the A505 and we turned right to join the A505. We followed the A505 to the right and into the centre of Dunstable. After a brief stop we ran North Westwards out of town and we ran forwards onto the A5. We turned left onto Dunstable Road and we ran through Tilsworth and Stanbridge. We ran through onto Leighton Road and we ran forwards onto Stanbridge Road. We turned right onto the A4012 and we ran forwards onto Leston Road. We ran forwards onto West Street and we had a brief stop in Leighton Buzzard. We ran forwards onto Leighton Road and we continued onto Old Street. We stopped by the railway station and we ran forwards onto Station Road. We turned left onto Soulbury Road and we headed out of town. We turned right onto the A4146 and we headed Northwards. We ran parrallel to the railway line and we turned right to follow the A4146. We turned left onto Stoke Road we headed Northwards into Water Eaton. We ran forwards onto Water Eaton Road and we turned right onto Brooklands Road. We turned left onto Queensway and we followed the road to the right onto Albert Street. We turned left onto Princes Street and left onto the B4034. We pulled into the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we took a few pictures. We saw Arriva The Shires 3127 on a #6 to Wolverton.

Arriva Shires 3127 in Bletchley bus station

Also seen was Arriva The Shires 3906.

Arriva Shires 3906 in Bletchley bus station

We set off on foot out of the bus station and we walked along Locke Road. We crossed over Duncombe Street. We went into the pub and Matthew used the toilet. Afterwards Matthew had a glass of Coke. We sat in a window seat and whailst we had ours drinks we saw Tates BU16 . When we had finished our drinks we went outside and met up with uncle Dave, We crossed over Duncombe Stree and we walked along Locke Road and into the bus station. We saw Arriva The Shires 3904 running out of service.

Arriva Shires 3904 in Bletchley bus station

We waited for a bus going Northwards up the B4034. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva Shires 3867 on a #5 to Wolverton.

Arriva Shires 3867 in Bletchley bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the all zone duo Day ticket for the final time today before and we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto the B4034. We did a u-turn at the roundabout and we went Northwards up the B4034. We travelled for around 1/3 of a mile and we went past Tesco and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Shires 3867 as it continued towards Wolverton.

Arriva Shires 3867 in Bletchley

Once off the bus we went under the underpass. We walked Eastwards along Watling Street. We saw Red Rose E17 RRT on a #100 to Milton Keynes.

Red Rose E17 RRT in Bletchley

We walked along Watling Street and we went across onto Aylesbury Street. The original chip shop we were going to was closed for holidays, so we walked onto Church Street and left onto Victoria Road and we crossed over the road to the chip shop. When we had finished we crossed over Victoria Road. We turned right onto Church Street and we saw taxi minibus KN21 STZ. We turned left onto Aylesbury Street and we turned right onto Watling Street and back to the hotel. We came in and we settled down. Matthew had sausage chips and gravy and a bottle of Dr Pepper. We chilled out in the room. Matthew watched TV and we did some work on the Blog. We did some more of the Blog and we wrote e-mails. Matthew went to bed around 00:30... Mark

Trip to Leicester / Loughborough 22-06-2024

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
4566	Leicester, (Stop CM)	Leicester, St Margarets BS	84	Arriva Midlands
4432	Leicester, St Margarets BS	Quorn, Quorndon Fox	127	Arriva Midlands
4554	Quorn, Quorndon Fox	Loughborough, stop FA	127	Arriva Midlands
4760	Loughborough, stop FA	Shepshed, Bullring	127	Arriva Midlands
3106	Shepshed, Bullring	Loughborough, (Stand LB)	16	Arriva Midlands
4434	Loughborough, (Stand LB)	Leicester, St Margarets BS	127	Arriva Midlands

Today we decided to re-visit Leicester. In the week Matthew had suggested nthat we go to Loughborough, to which I said it might be better to go to Leicester and travel up son that there would be more for mum to do whilst we were on the bus. Matthew agreed to this. Research consisted of looking at the weather which was for dry weather with some sunshine. We also looked at the Arriva tickets that we could buy. Matthew woke up at 08:00 and had his medication. We got up at 10:20 and Matthew had toast and orange juice for breakfast. After getting dressed we set off around 11:50 to pick up uncle Dave. We got in the car and we set off through Blurton and we ran along Beaconsfield Drive. We turned right onto Finstock Avenue and right onto Emsworth Road. We returned to the house to check the door was locked and afterwards we ran through Blurton and onto Finstock Avenue. We turned right onto Beaconsfield Drive and we turned left onto Church Road and at the roundabout we veered left onto Blurton Road past the former Coral shop which is new going to be flats. We ran through Blurton and into Heron Cross and over the A50. At Heron Cross lights we turned left onto Grove Road. We ran forwards onto Wheildon Road and we picked up uncle Dave. Once we had picked up uncle Dave, we continued back up Wheildon Road and we ran forwards onto Grove Road. We turned right onto Blurton Road and at the roundabout we joined the Eastbound A50. We ran through Longton and Meir. We turned right to continued along the Blythe Bridge bypass and we were passed by SAS BT 15 NLE. We went near to uttoxeter and we continued along the A50 for a few more miles. Passing former EWS locomotive 60078 on the back of a Reids Truck parked up in a holding area. We came off the A50 and we and we headed towards Hatton on the A511. We deciedd to try something new today. We stopped at a cafe called Rascals for dinner. It was quite warm and sunny so we sat outside on a bench. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a bottle of Coke. He also used the toilet which was in a barn. When we had finished we headed back along the A511 and we re-joined the A50. We continued Eastwards for a few miles before joining the Southbound M1. Whilst travelling down the M1 we saw Skills (NX) BV73 ZTT(#450), white coach BK15 AJU, blue minibus YR60 LHM, an unidentified RML Routemaster and Travel Xpress RE22 ETT. We came off the motorway onto the A50 and we headed through Groby into Leicester the last 7 or so miles. We turned left onto Blackbird Way. We followed the road around onto St Margarets Way and we turned left onto Burleys Way. We turned we did the flyover and we ran onto St Matthews Way. We turned left onto Humberstone Road and we did a u turn just after the railway bridge. We went back along St Matthews Way and we turned left onto Gelgrave Gate. We ran forwards onto Haymarket and we we went into the car park. After we had parked up we said goodbye to mum and we went down the stairs into the shopping centre. We came out onto Charles Street and we headed into the bus station. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards we ha a walk around to see what we could see. In the bus station was First Leicester 63567 on a #88 to Eyres Monsell.

First Leicester 63567 in Leicester bus station

We continued down Charles Street to see what was in the bus station. As we walked down Charles Street we saw First Leicester 36615 on a #54 to the Beaumont Leys Centre.

First Leicester 36615 in Leicester bus station

At the other end of the bus station we saw First Leicester 63550 on a #38A Nether Hall circular.

First Leicester 63550 in Leicester bus station

We planned to catch a bus from Charles Street down to the St Margarets bus station. Walking back up Charles Street we saw Centebus 775 on a #20 to Blackmore Drive.

Centebus 775 in Leicester bus station

As we walked up Charles Street we could see a #84 service at the bus stop. As we got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 4566 on a #84 to St Margaret's bus station.

Arriva Midlands 4566 in Leicester

We got on the bus and we booked Arriva East Midlands Day Saver Duo at £12.50 before we went upstairs and we sat down. The bus set off along Charles Street and we ran through the bus station. We ran forwards onto Abbey Street and we entered the bus station from the South Eastern corner. We pulled onto the stand and we got up and got off the bus. We looked at the departure board and we saw there was a departure in 3 minutes from stand SC at the other end of the bus station. We had a brisk walk and we spotted the bus on stand. As we approached the stand we saw it was Arriva Midlands 4432 on a #127 to Shepshed.

Arriva Midlands 4432 in Leicester bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the Arriva East Midlands Day Saver Duo on the scanner before we went upstairs and sat down. The bus set off out of the bus station and we turned left onto Gravel Street. We turned right on Abbey Street and left onto Belgrave Gate. We crossed over the ring road and we headed North Eastwards up the A607. We started to go along the Golden Mile before we turned left onto Loughborough Road. We ran Northwards for just under a mile and we crossed over the A563 and joined the Northbound A6. We ran through Birstall where we saw West Yorkshire Travel BX14 OMP. We continued past the park and ride site and we crossed over the A46. We turned left towards a housing estate and we tured right onto Loughborough Road. We ran Northwards into Rothley and we turned left onto Helifields Lane. The road turned leftwards to head North and we ran forwards onto North Street. We continued Northwards onto Mountsorrel Lane and we continued onto Rothley Road. We turned right onto The Green and at the roundabout we turned left onto. Loughborough Road. We passed the Buttermarket we reached the Southernmost point that we reached on out trip to Loughborough back in January 2022. We continued Northwards out of Market Place and we ran Northwards through Quorn. We decided to get off and go to a pub so we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 4432 before it continued Northwards towards Shepshed.

Arriva Midlands 4432 in Quorn

Once the bus had departed we headed into the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards we had a small bottle of Coke with some ice in a glass, When we had finished our drinks we headed out to the bus stop and met up with uncle Dave. Whilst we waited for the bus we saw Arriva Midlands 4400 on a #127 to Leicester. A short time later we saw our bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 4554 on a #127 to Shepshed.

Arriva Midlands 4554 in Quorn

We got on the bus and we placed the Arriva East Midlands Day Saver Duo on the scanner before we went upstairs and sat down. The bus set off up the Northbound A6 and we headed into the centre of Loughborough. We ran forwards onto High Street and we turned right into Baxter Gate. After a brief stop we set off along Baxter Gate and we rejoined the Northbound A6. We ran around town to Tesco and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew got another picture of Arriva Midlands 4554 which sat at the bus stop for a few minutes awaiting time.

Arriva Midlands 4554 in Loughborough

We headed up the step and we spotted a cafe. Matthew had a slice of red velvet cake washed down with a bottle of Coke. When we had finished eating Matthew went to the toilet. We met up with uncle Dave and we went back down the step to the bus stop. We didn't have to wait long before the bus appeared. As it approached the stop we saw it was Arriva Midlands 4760 on a #127 to Shepshed.

Arriva Midlands 4760 in Loughborough

We got on the bus and we placed the Arriva East Midlands Day Saver Duo on the scanner before we went upstairs and sat down. After a short wait for time, the bus set off along the A6 and we turned left onto The Rushes and right onto Derby Square. We ran forwads onto the A512 and we ran out of town. We turned right onto the Northbound A6004. We turned left onto Alan Moss Road and right onto Garendon Road. We turned right onto Garendon Gardens and we ran forwards onto Blackbrook Road. We turned right onto Schofield Road and left onto Old Ashby Road. We ran to the end and we joined the Westbound A512. We crossed over the M1 and we continued Westwards. We turned right onto Leicester Road and we ran into Shepshed. We went forwards onto Kirkhill and onto the roundabout in the centre of town where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 4760 before it returned on a #127 to Leicester.

Arriva Midlands 4760 in Shepshed

We set off on foot onto Queen Street and we cut through the Co-op car park onto Hall Croft. We visited the Hall Croft Tap and we had a glass of Coke. After we had finished our drinks Matthew used the toilet. We walked back along Hall Croft and we cut through the Co-op car park onto Queen Street. We sat in the space behind the bus stop and Matthew chose and ate a Milky Way. Whilst we waited for the bus Matthew made friends with the resident Shepshed Bullring cat. A short time later we saw Arriva Midlands 4437 arrive on a #127 service and go out of service.

Arriva Midlands 4437 in Shepshed

We chattd to one of the locals and we realised that we could do the #16 to Loughborough and get on the following #127 service. We waited for the bus to appear. As short time later we saw the bus approaching. We saw it was Arriva Midlands 3106 on a #16 to Loughborough.

Arriva Midlands 3106 in Shepshed

We got on the bus and we placed the Arriva East Midlands Day Saver Duo on the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. After a short wait for time, the bus set off onto Kirkhill, and we ran forwards onto Leicester Road. We turned left onto the A512 and we crossed over the M1. We continued along the A512. When we stopped at bus stops the engine shut down. We ran inti the West end of Loughborough and we turned left onto Greenclose Lane. We turned left onto The Rushes and we turned righ onto the A6. We ran around the East side of the town past Tesco and when we got to next stop we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we saw Kinchbus 128 on a Skylink service to the Airport.

Kinchbus 128 in Loughborough

A few minutes later we saw our bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 4434 on a #127 to Leicester.

Arriva Midlands 4434 in Loughborough

We got on the bus and we placed the Arriva East Midlands Day Saver Duo on the scanner for what turned out to be the fianl time today before we went upstairs and sat down. After a brief stop we continued Left onto Leicester Road. We ran Southwards out of town and we crossed over the Great Central Railway. We ran forwards onto Loughborough Road and we ran a further 1/2 mile or so into the centre of Quorn. We Continued Southwards out of the centre of Quorn and we headed down into Mountsorrel. We turne right onto The Green and we stopped behind the library before continuing onto Rothley Road. We continued onto Moutsorrel Lane and into Rothley. We followed the road to the left onto Halifields Lane and we continued onto Cossington Lane. WE joined the Southbound A46 and after crossing the A46 we ran past the park and ride site through Birstall. We tookm a diversionary route down the A6 and we passed the First Leicester depot. We turned left onto the B5327 and past Abbey Park before turning right onto the A607. We crossed the roundabout onto Belgrave Gate and we turmed right onto Abbey Street before entering the St Margaret's Bus Station from the South Eastern corner. We pulled into a stand and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we had a walk around. Matthew visited the toilet and we walked around the outside of the bus station as there wasn't a bus back to Charles Street for a long time we decided to walk. We walked down to the South West corner and we saw Woods Coaches BX65 WBD on a National Express #230 sercvice to Derby.

Woods Coaches BX65 WBD in Leicester bus station

We did a lap around the bus station and as we got to the junction of Abbey Street and Gravel Street we saw Stagecoach Midlands 26204 on a #148 to Coventry.

Stagecoach Midlands 26204 in Leicester bus station

We walked along Abbey Street and we turned right onto Belgrave Gate. We continued onto Charles Street and past the Haymarket Bus Station. A the Southern end we saw First Leicester 63563 on layover in between runs on the #16 to the General Hospital.

First Leicester 63563 in Leicester bus station

We walked to the entrance of the shopping centre but the door was closed! We turned right onto Humberstone Gate and right onto Haymarket. There was an entrance by the theatre, but you needed the ticket or had to declare your ticket lost, which I did not want to do. We ended up walking up the ramp to get back into the car park. We walked to where the car was but mum had moved it to by one the pay stations. After paying for parking we set off out of the car park onto Haymarket. We ran forwards onto Belgrave Gate and we turned left onto Burleys Way. We turned right onto the A50 and we ran through Frog Island. We spotted a chip shop on the A50 so we turned left onto Dunton Street and turned around. THe chip shop was closed so we looked up directions to another one. We continued onto the A50 and we did a u turned and turned left onto Buckminster Road. We stopped at Bucks Chip shop and Matthew had sausage chips and gravy washed down with a can of Irn Bru. It created a bit of a stir in the chip shop when I paid, becasue un beknown to me I paid with a couple of the new Charles III £10 notes! We ate the chips in the car and when we were ready we set off onto Buckminster Road. We turned left onto Medina Road and we turned right to re-join the A50. We ran North through Groby and we re-joined the Northbound M1. We came off the M1 and junction and we headed Westwards along the A50. As we travelled along the A50 we saw an unidentified Ausden Clark double decker coach, blue minibus SJ59 UAN, an unidentified Diamond Bus on a #401 to Burton and silver minibus YX09 HFK. We came off the A50 and we turned right onto Blurton Road. at the traffic lights we turned left Grove Road. We ran ran forwards onto Wheildon Road and we stopped at uncle Dave's. Matthew went in as he was desperate for the toilet. He also updated uncle Dave's calendar with the details of today's trip. Matthew had a can of Cherry Coke. We said goodbye to uncle Dave and we set off back to Blurton. We set off onto Wheildon Road and we ran forwards onto Grove Road. We turned right onto Blurton Road and we crossed over the A50. We continued through Blurton and we turned right onto Church Road. We turned right onto the A5035 and we got back to Blurton around 21:10. Matthew chilled out on his computer and we did some of the Blog. We also wrote a few emails and generally used the computer to entertain ourselves. We watched TV and Matthew got ready for bed. Matthew settled down around 00:30... Mark