Trip to Shrewsbury / Bicton Heath 17-01-2026

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
2511	Harlescott, opp Tesco	Shrewsbury BS	25	Arriva Midlands
2960	Shrewsbury BS	Gains Park, Opp Woodcrest Jct	11	Arriva Midlands
235	Gains Park, Opp Woodcrest Jct	Shrewsbury BS	X77	Tanat Valley
2984	Shrewsbury BS	Bicton Heath, The Woolhams Jct	11	Arriva Midlands
2960	Bicton Heath, The Woolhams Jct	Shrewsbury BS	11	Arriva Midlands
3692	Shrewsbury BS	Harlescott, opp Tesco	64	Arriva Midlands

Today we decided to re-visit Shrewsbury. We had asked Matthew it the week where he would like to go and he chose Shrewsbury. Research for the trip consisted of looking at tickets on the Arrive site and checking the weather. The weather was forecast for mainly dry with the chance of a shower, 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 11:40 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 Westbound A50. We came off the A50 onto Stanley Matthews Way and we turned right onto the A5035 and we turned right onto the Northbound A34 through Trentham. We turned left onto Whitm ore Road and we crossed over the A519 onto the A5182. We headed Westwards for a few miles and at the end of the road we turned left onto the Southbound A53 We ran through Whitmore and Balwins gate and we crossed over the A51 by The Swan With Two Necks. We continued through Loggerheads and to the North of Market Drayton and on the other side of town we stopped in a layby. The food wagon had finished serving so we continued towards Shrewsbury down the A53. We ran through Tern Hill and Shawbury and at the edge of town we took a wrong turn and headed along .We did a u-turn at the next roundabout and we turned sharp right onto the A5112. We continued for a short distance and we stopped at a pub. Matthew went to the toilet and after we returned we met back up with mum and uncle Dave. Matthew had a beefburger with and extra chicken burger with fries washed down with a glass of Coke. After we had finished we headed back to the car. We set off onto the A5112 and we drove a few hundred yeard before turning right into Tesco. We parked up and we said goodbye to mum. We walked along the side of Tesco to the the bus stop to wait for a bus into Shrewsbury. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 2511 on a #25 to Shrewsbury.

Arriva Midlands 2511 in Harlescott

We got on the bus and we booked a Shrewsbury and Telford Day Saver at £8.50 before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off Southwards along the unnamed road and we turned right onto Harlescott Lane. We ran under the railway Line and we turned left onto Lancaster Road. We turned right onto York Road and we ran forwards onto Gloucester Road. We turned left onto Little Harlescott Lane and we turned left onto Mount Pleasant Road. We ran under the railway line and we turned left onto the A5191. At the roundabout we did a u-turn and we headed Southwards down the A5191. We ran Southwards into Shrewsbury and we went under the railway line. We turned right onto Smithfield Road and we turned left into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we visited the toilet. We walked out for the bus station and we saw First Lakeside 44971 on Layover.

First Lakeside 44971 in Shrewsbury bus station

We decided to go and get cake so we headed onto Smithfield Road. We walked around the corner and on the way to the cake shop we saw Arriva Midlands 2976 on a #512 to Shrewsbury.

Arriva Midlands 2976 in Shrewsbury

We arrived at the cak shop and Matthew had a huge slice of millionaire's shortbreab and a can of Coke. We walked back along Smithfield Road to the bus station and Matthew ate the millionaire's shortbread. We sat and wayched buses for a while. We sa Select Bus 3 on a arrive on a #96 service from Telford before going over to the layover area.

Select Bus 3 in Shrewsbury bus station

We took a few more picture and we headed into the bus station to catch another bus. A short time later we saw a bus come onto the stand. We saw it was Arriva Midlands 2960 on a #11 to Bicton Heath.

Arriva Midlands 2960 in Shrewsbury bus station

We got on the bus and and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off out off the bus station onto the A458. We went around the Welsh Bridge. We turned left onto Copthorne Road. We ran down Mytton Oak Road and we turned into the hospital and as we travelled through the hospital the Hospital. We turned right onto Mytton Oak Road. We continued through Bowbrook. We turned right onto Gains Park Way. We headed down the hill into Bicton Heath. We turned right onto Gains Avenue and we turned left onto Gains Park Way and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 2960 as it continued towards Shrewsbury.

Arriva Midlands 2960 in Gains Park

Once off the bus we had planned to wait around for a while and catch the next #11, but as we settle down in the stop we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Tanat Valley 235 on a X77 to Shrewsbury. We got on the bus and we purchased singles to Shrewsbury at £1.60 before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down Gains Park Way and we continued through Bowbrook. We turned left onto Mytton Oak Road and we turned into the hospital where they are building some new hospital wards. We turned left onto Mytton Oak Road and we ran down Copthorne Road. We ran forwards onto the A458. We went around the Welsh Bridge. We turned left onto the A458 and we turned right into the bus station we got up and got off the bus and Matthew took a picture of Tanat Valley 235 before it went off to the layover area.

Tanat Valley 235 in Shrewsbury bus station

We looked across the road and we saw Arriva Midlands 2975 on layover.

Arriva Midlands 2975 in Shrewsbury bus station

We considered what to catch next so we headed inside the bus station. Whilst there we saw Select Bus 6 on a #436 to Bridgnorth.

Select Bus 6 in Shrewsbury bus station

We had a look around to see what we could catch. A few minutes later we saw a bus pull on stand. As it ot closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 2984 on #11 to Bicton Heath.

Arriva Midlands 2984 in Shrewsbury bus station

We got on the bus and and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off out off the bus station onto the A458. We went around the Welsh Bridge. We turned left onto Copthorne Road. We ran down Mytton Oak Road and we turned into the hospital and as we travelled through the hospital the Hospital. We turned right onto Mytton Oak Road. We continued through Bowbrook. We turned right onto Gains Park Way. We headed down the hill into Bicton Heath. We turned right onto Gains Avenue where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew got another picture of Arriva Midlands 2984 as it continued on the #11 to Shrewsbury.

Arriva Midlands 2984 in Bicton Heath

We walked down Gains Avenue and we headed thruogh a passgeway onto the A458. We crossed over the road and we went into the Co-op. We bought a bottle of Coke and a chocolate bar. Once we had finished we paid for our stuff and we headed out of the shop. We crossed the A458 and we headed down the passageway. We went back to the same stop and we waited for the bus. Whilst we waited Matthew had a Milky Way. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 2960 on a #11 to Shrewsbury.

Arriva Midlands 2960 in Bicton Heath

We got on the bus and and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off down Gains Avenue. We turned left onto Gains Park Way and we continued through Bowbrook. We turned left onto Mytton Oak Road and we turned into the hospital. We turned left onto Mytton Oak Road. We ran down Copthorne Road. We ran forwards onto the A458. We went around the Welsh Bridge. We turned left onto the A458 and we turned right into the bus station we got up and got off the bus. We headed to the toilet but the toilet had shut. I suggested to Matthew we caught a bus out asap and got to Tesco. We looked across and we saw a bus we could catch. We saw it was Arriva Midlands 3692 on a #64 to Market Drayton.

Arriva Midlands 3692 in Shrewsbury bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the Shropshire and Telford Day Saver ticket for the final time today before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto Raven Mwadows and we turned right onto the A458. We turned left onto Chester Street and we turned right onto Cross Street and under the railway line. We turned left onto the A5191 and we headed Northwards out of town. I explained to Matthew that we could only go so far on this bus if he wanted to get 6 or more buses in for the day. We passed the roundabout with the Heathgates pub and we joined the Northbound A5112. We continued Northwards into Harlescott and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 3692 before it returned on a #25 to Shrewsbury.

Arriva Midlands 3692 in Harlescott

We crossed over Harlescott Lane and we headed into Tesco. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards we bought a chcoclate bar. We walked across to where mum had parked the car. We got in the car and Matthew had a can of Cheery Coke. We set off out of the tesco car park and we turned left onto the Northbound A52. We travelled through Upper Astley for around 5 miles and into Shawbury. We stopped nin Shawbury. I went to the chip show and Matthew and mum went to the Co-op and bought a bottle of Dr Pepper and a chocolate bar. We went back to the car and Matthew had sausage chips and gravy. We set off onto the A53 and we headed Northwards. We crossed over the A41 and Northwards towards Market Drayton. We ran along the Market Drayton by-pass and we continued Northwards towards Loggerheads. we crossed over the A51 and up through Whitmore. We ran Northwards towards Newcastle and we turned right onto Trentham Road. We turned left onto the A519. We joined the Northbound A500. We ran through Hanford up to Stoke and we came off the A500. We turned right onto City Road and right again to go Southwards onto the A500. We veered left onto Wheildon Road and we went to uncle Dave's. We dropped off uncle Dave and Matthew got out to use the toilet and afterwards went to see uncle Rob. He also had some Fanta Orange and updated the calendar. Once we had dropped off uncle Dave we set off onto Wheildon Road. We ran forwards onto Grove Road and we saw green minibus R482 NDM parked up. 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 20:00. 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 did some of the Blog and Matthew got ready for bed. Matthew settled down around 00:00... Mark

Trip to Shrewsbury / Telford 04-03-2023

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
2522	Shrewsbury BS	Wellington BS	17	Arriva Midlands
2994	Wellington BS	Telford BS	4	Arriva Midlands
3792	Telford BS	Oakengates BS	6	Arriva Midlands
3753	Oakengates BS	Telford BS	5	Arriva Midlands
3338	Telford BS	Telford railway station	4	Arriva Midlands
3780	Telford railway station	Telford BS	5A	Arriva Midlands
3790	Telford BS	Shrewsbury BS	X5	Arriva Midlands

Today we decided to re-visit Shrewsbury. Matthew had initially asked to go to Oswestry, becasue Arriva are considering closing the depot. We ended up picking Shrewsbury instead. Research consisted of Looking up the ticket, looking at possibly places to eat and checking the weather which was for dry grey weather but quite cold. Matthew got up around 09:30 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. Mum returned home from work and we set off just after 12:00. We set off and we ran along Beaconsfield Drive. We turned left onto Church Road and at the roundabout we veered left onto Blurton Road. 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 down Wheildon Road and we joined the Northbound A500. We came off the A500 at Stoke and we turned right onto City Road. We turned right to join the Southbound A500 and we ran through Sideway and Hanford down to the A519. We headed Southwards for a few hundred yards before turning right onto the A5182. We headed Westwards for a few miles and at the end of the road we turned left onto the Southbound A53 We ran through Whitmore and Balwins gate and we crossed over the A51 by The Swan With Two Necks. We continued through Loggerheads and to the North of Market Drayton and on the other side of town we stopped in a layby. Matthew had a sausage sandwich from Jim's Butty Van and washed it down with a can of Cherry Coke from the boot. When we had finished eating we continued down the A53 to Tern Hill. We waited at the roundabout for the 4-way light in the roadworks, and whilst we waited we saw Mawley Oak KM16 KOB. We continued through Edge Bolton and Shawbury and at the North end of Shrewwsbury we joined the A5112. We ran into town and we turned right under by the railway station onto the A458. We ran past the bus station and we turned left onto Roushill. We turned left onto Raven Meadows and we parked up at the Raven Meadows car park (expensive!). We said goodbye to mum and we went down the lift to the street. We headed towards the bus station and we crossed over to look what was parked up in the layover area. On layover we saw Lakeside YJ61 CKD parked between duties.

Lakeside YJ61 CKD in Shrewsbury bus station

We crossed back over Raven Meadows and we had a look in the bus station. We saw Arriva Midlands 3790 departing on a X5 to Oswestry. Afterwards we saw saw Arriva Midlands 2959 on a #24 to Harlescott Tesco.

Arriva Midlands 2959 in Shrewsbury bus station

We walked into the bus station and we saw there was a bus to Wellington due to go shortly. It was Arriva Midlands 2522 on a #17 to Wellington.

Arriva Midlands 2522 in Shrewsbury bus station

We decided that we were going to do the bus to Wellington. Whilst we waited for the driver we saw Tanat Valley 281 arrive into the bus stations and afterwatfs go on layover.

Tanat Valley 281 in Shrewsbury bus station

We got on the bus and we brought a West Midlands Day Saver Duo ticket at £12.50 before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the bus station onto the A458 and we went left onto Chester Street. We turned right onto Cross Street and right onto Castle Foregate and past the railway station. We headed up the hill past the castle and we turned left onto St Mary's Street. We continued down the hill and we veered left onto Wyle Cop. We crossed over the English Bridge and we went under the railway line onto Abbey Foregate. We continued Southwards onto the A458 and we turned right onto Sutton Way. We turned left onto Sutton Road and we crossed over a former railway line which is now a footpath. We turned left onto Tilsrock Crescent and we ran around the Sutton Farm housing estate. We rejoined Sutton Road and we turned left onto the B4380. We crossed over the A458 and we crossed over the A5 at the Salop Leisure roundabout. We ran out of town through Emstrye and Atcham and we ran forwards onto the B5061. We continued through Norton and Uckington and we crossed the A5 at Blue Bell. We ran through Overley and we veered left to stay on the B5061. We turned left at The Wickets Inn and we ran Northwards up Wrekin Road. We turned right onto Victoria Road and we ran up the East side of town before turning left into the bus station. Once off the bus Matthew got another picture of Arriva Midlands 2522 before it returned to the depot.

Arriva Midlands 2522 in Wellington bus station

Once off the bus Matthew wanted to go to the toilet. We headed to the adjacent toilet block but it was closed. We crossed over The parade and we cut trough the passageway next to BBQ Station onto New Street. We went to the pub and Matthew used the toilet before having a small glass of Coke. When we had finished we went over to Sofia's Cafe. Matthew wanted a cake, but they had sold all of their stock. We returned back up the passageway and over The Parade and we saw a Telford bound bus on stand. AS we got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 2994 on a #4 to Madeley.

Arriva Midlands 2994 in Wellington bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the Arriva West Midlands Day Saver Duo under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out off the bus station onto Victoria Road and we turned right onto King Street and we ran through town and onto the B5061. We ran East for a couple of miles and we ran into Oakengate. We turned left onto Hartshill and we ran into town. By the railway station we turned left onto Uxacona Way and around the North end of town before entering the bus station. We ran down Uxacona Way and by the railway station we turned left onto station Road. We crossed over the A442 and we ran East along the B5061 until we got to the A5. We went South over the M54 and we headed to Telford railway station. There we nobody there to get on or off the bus so we came straight back out and onto the roundabout. We crossed over the A442 and onto Hollinsgate before going forwards onto Grange Central. We turned right onto Northfield street and we ran into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus and we had a walk around the bus station to take a few bus pictures. We saw Arriva Midlands 3793 on a #1 to Sutton Hill.

Arriva Midlands 3793 in Telford bus station

We continued around the bus station and we saw Arriva Midlands 2993 on a #12 to Hollinswood.

Arriva Midlands 2993 in Telford bus station

On the way back into the bus station we saw Arriva Midlands 2144 on a #19 Lightmoor service.

Arriva Midlands 2144 in Telford bus station

We visited the toilet and afterwards Matthew wanted to go get something from Costa Coffee. I said we would get some cake from somewhere else. I gave Matthew the choice of doing a few more buses in Telford or catching the next X5 back to Shrewsbury. Matthew chose to do a few more buses in Telford. I thought it would be a good idea to go to Oakengates and back and visit the Co-op there to get some cake. We had a look around for a bus heading towards Oakengates. We saw there was one on stand. As we got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 3792 on a #6 to Donnington.

Arriva Midlands 3792 in Telford bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the Arriva West Midlands Day Saver Duo under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto Northfield Street and we turned left onto Grange Central. We ran forwards onto Hollingsgate and we crossed the A442 and we turned into the railway station. After stopping outside the station we returned back to the roundabout and we joined the Northbound A5. We turned left onto the B5061 and we ran West past Wickes and back over the A442. We joined Station Road and we ran North to Oakengates. We turned right onto Uxacona Way and we ran along the Eastern side of town before turning left into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 3792 as it continued towards Donnington.

Arriva Midlands 3792 in Oakengates bus station

We headed ober to the nearby Co-operative Food shop and Matthew had a can of Coke, Some choclate bars and a cake. The cake was a fudge cake so he would have to wait until he got home before he could eat it! We headed back towards the bus station and we saw a bus already on stand. As we got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 3753 on a #5 to Telford.

Arriva Midlands 3753 in Oakengates bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the West Midlands Duo Day Saver tickets under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We ran down Uxacona Way and by the railway station we turned left onto station Road. We crossed over the A442 and we ran East along the B5061 until we got to the A5. We went South over the M54 and we headed to Telford railway station. There we nobody there to get on or off the bus so we came straight back out and onto the roundabout. We crossed over the A442 and onto Hollinsgate before going forwards onto Grange Central. We turned right onto Northfield street and we ran into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus. We had about 3/4 of an hour before the X5 to Shrewsbury was due. We walked around the bus station and we saw A Banga Travel bus. As we got closer we saw Banga Travel YD63 UZY on a #891 to Wolverhampton.

Banga Travel YD63 UZY in Telford bus station

We decided that we would have time to go up to the railway station and back. We could do any of the #4, #5 or #6 buses. We walked into the bus station and we saw a bus on stand. It was Arriva Midlands 3338 on a #4 to Leegomery.

Arriva Midlands 3338 in Telford bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the West Midlands Duo Day Saver tickets under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto Northfield Street and we turned left onto Grange Central. We ran forwards onto Hollingsgate and we crossed the A442 and we turned into the railway station. We got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 3338 as it continued towards Leegomery.

Arriva Midlands 3338 in Telford

Once off the bus we walked up the path to the hotel car park to have a look at the 2 mini coaches we had seen earlier in the day. The 1st vehicle we saw was Nova Bussing RE71 AJX.

Nova Bussing RE71 AJX in Telford

Also seen was Nova Bussing RE71 AGU.

Nova Bussing RE71 AGU in Telford

We walked back to the station and Matthew used the toilet. We came out of the station and we just missed Arriva Midlands 3335 on a #4 to Madeley. We got to the stop and we noticed there was a gap in the service. The bus was due at 17:11 and the bus was due off Telford bus station at 17:20. It was going to be very close! A short time later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 3780 on a #5A to Telford.

Arriva Midlands 3780 in Telford

We got on the bus and we placed the West Midlands Duo Day Saver tickets under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus so we came back out and onto the roundabout. We crossed over the A442 and onto Hollinsgate before going forwards onto Grange Central. We turned right onto Northfield street and we ran into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus. WE had about 5 minutes to spare so we had a quick walk around the bus station. We saw National Express West Midlands 338 on a #409 service to Aberystwyth.

NX West Midlands 338 in Telford bus station

We saw the bus pull onto the stand at the opposite end of the bus station. We entered the bus station and we walked up to the appropriate stand. As we got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 3790 on the X5 to Oswestry.

Arriva Midlands 3790 in Telford bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the West Midlands Duo Day Saver tickets under the scanner for the final time today before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto Northfield Street. We turned right onto Hall Park Way and we ran down to the motorway. We joined Westbound M54 and forwards onto the A5. We ran fast for around 20 minutes to the edge of Shrewsbury on to the Southern by-pass. We turned right onto A5064 and we headed Northwards into town. We ran past Lord Hill's Column. We ran forwards onto Abbey Foregate. We went around the English Bridge Gyratory and we crossed over the bridge. We ran forwards onto Wyle Cop. We followed the one-way system around town and we turned right onto Barker Street. We turned right onto the A458 and we turned right into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we attempted to use the toilet in the bus station but it had been locked up. We crossed over Raven Meadows to have a look at the coaches on layover. We saw Swains Coaches M19 CJE parked up.

Swains Coaches M19 CJE in Shrewsbury bus station

Also seen were a pair of Lakside coaches. We saw Lakeside BV69 LPL parked up.

Lakeside BV69 LPL in Shrewsbury bus station

The other coach was Lakeside BV69 LPK.

Lakeside BV69 LPK in Shrewsbury bus station

We crossed back over Raven Meadows and we got in the lift and went back to the car. Matthew had a bottle of orange Fanta and we set off out of the car park. We turned left onto Raven Medows and we turned right onto the A458. We ran forwards onto the A528 and we went under the low arched bridge that had prevented the use of a double decker on the run. We turned left onto the A5191 and we headed North towards Harlescott. We ran forwards onto the A53 and we travelled through Upper Astley for around 5 miles and into Shawbury. We stopped nin Shawbury. Mum went to the chip show and Matthew went to the pub to use the toilet. Afterwards Matthew had a glass of Coke. We went back to the car and Matthew had sausage chips and gravy. We set off onto the A53 and we headed Northwards. We crossed over the A41 and Northwards towards Market Drayton. We ran along the Market Drayton by-pass and we continued Northwards towards Loggerheads. we crossed over the A51 and up through Whitmore. We ran Northwards towards Newcastle and we turned right onto Trentham Road. We turned left onto the A519. We joined the Northbound A500. As we headed Northwards we saw Elite Gold AG53 ???. We ran through Hanford up to Stoke and we came off the A500. We turned right onto City Road and right again to go Southwards onto the A500. We veered left onto Wheildon Road and we went to uncle Dave's. We dropped off uncle Dave and Matthew got out to use the toilet. Uncle Rob wasn't there tonight. He aslo had some Irn Bru and updated the calendar. Once we had dropped off uncle Dave we set off onto Wheildon Road and past the former Regent pub which is now up for sale. We ran forwards onto Grove Road and we saw green minibus R482 NDM parked up. 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 20:00. 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 00:00... Mark

Trip to Market Drayton / Shrewsbury 05-03-2022

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
69154	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Stoke, Stop P	11	First Potteries
63178	Stoke, Stop P	Newcastle BS	11	First Potteries
2959	Newcastle BS	Market Drayton BS	64	Arriva Midlands
2501	Market Drayton BS	Shrewsbury BS	64	Arriva Midlands
2402	Shrewsbury BS	Telford BS	19	Arriva Midlands
3693	Telford BS	Shrewsbury BS	X5	Arriva Midlands
2977	Shrewsbury BS	Harlescott, Tesco	24	Arriva Midlands

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to Market Drayton and Shrewsbury. In light of the weather forecast it was perhaps a sunny. We didn't do any research for the trip other than to check the weather. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to the day centre he watched buses out of the window. we saw First Potteries 67155 on a #23 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67155 in Fenton

Matthwe went into the living room and we saw Temple Street Church RX18 GZW.

Temple Street Church RX18 GZW in Fenton

We went downstairs. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned right onto Christchurch Street. we stopped at the benches at the end to eat the Cadbury Fudge and drink the can of Coke. A short time later we saw First Potteries 67153 on a #23 to Newstead. We set off onto Christchurch Street and we turned right onto Masterson Street and we saw Ex Arnold Clark, Community Link Stafford SG68 MEV. We crossed over Smithpool Road onto Ashworth Street and we turned right onto Napier Street. We turned left onto City Road and we walked down to the bus stop to wait for a bus to Stoke. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 69154 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 69154 in Fenton

We got on the bus and we booked a First Potteries Network Day ticket at £7. We also brought a single to the the Staffordshire border which cost an astonishing £5. We sat down towards the back of the bus and we set off down City Road and we ran down the hill over the old railway line to Leek and onto the A52. We ran under the railway line and over the A500 and straight into Stoke town centre along Church Street where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we walked along Church Street and we visited the Stoke Cafe. Matthew went to the toilet and I ordered the food. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a can of Coke. When we had finished we set off onto Church Street and we walked up to the Newcastle bus stop. Whilst we waited for the bus we saw First Potteries 63178 on a #11 to Newcastle. We got on the bus and we flashed the Network Day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Church Street. After a brief stop in Stoke we continued along church Street and forwards onto Hartshill Road. We ran up the hill and into Hartshill. We ran forwards onto George Street and we ran down the hill into Newcastle. We turned left at the roundabout onto Barracks Road and into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. We waited for a bus towards the hospital. A short time later we saw Arriva Midlands 2959 on a #164 to Market Drayton. we got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off out of the bus station onto Barracks Road. At the roundabout we turned right onto the A34 and at the next roundabout we turned left onto the A53. We ran out of Newcastle and under the M6 and over the A5182 roundabout. We ran through Whitmore and Baldwins Gate and we turned left onto Sandy Lane. We veered right onto Woodside and we ran to the end into Chorlton Hill. We turned right onto the A51 and we ran Westwards past the A53 junction and the Swan with Two Necks. We turned left past The Croft and we re-joined the A53 further down the road. We turned left onto Church Road and we ran into Ashley onto Gravelly Hill. We rejoined the A53 and we ran into Loggerheads. We continued along the A53 and we veered left onto Newcastle Road. We ran into Market Drayton and we turned right onto Smithfield Road. We turned left onto Frogmore Road and we entered market Drayton bus station. We had a 30 minute break here and Matthew decided to visit the adjacent public toilet. The toilets were right by the entrance. Once we had used the facilities we walked back into the bus station we looked for nsomething suitable to catch and we spotted Arriva Midlands 2501 on a #64 to Shrewsbury. We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off out off the bus station. We re-joined Frogmore Road and we turned right at the end onto Shropshire Street. We continued forwards onto Shrewsbury Road and at the end we re-joined the Southbound A53. We continued down to the A41 and we turned right. We turned left onto the A53 and we headed South. a few miles down the road we turned right to run into another village before returning to the A53. We continued through Shabury and past Harlescott and into Shrewsbury town centre. We went under the railway line and we turned right onto the A458. We came up alongside the river and we turned left into the bus station. Once off the bus we crossed over to the layover area. We saw Arriva Midlands 2402 on a #19 to Telford. we got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off out off the bus station onto the A458 and we joined the A528. We turned right onto the A5191. We went around the English Bridge Gyratory and we crossed over the bridge. We ran forwards onto Abbey Foregate. We turned right onto A5064 and we continued onto Emstrey. We carried on up A5064 were we passed Arriva Midlands 2143 on the #19 to Shrewsbury. We continued onto Emstrey Bank and we ran past Salop Leisure Centre. We headed through Atcham and we ran forwards onto the B5061. We went into Wroxeter and we went through Lower Longwood. We ran into Overley and we continued along the B4380. We ran through Leighton and we went through Buildwas. We crossed over the A4169 and we turned right onto Much Wenlock Road. We turned left into Buildwas Road and we turned onto Wharfage. We ran up the hill and into Coalbrookdale. We turned left into Dale End. We ran forwards onto Wellington Road. We ran forwards onto Jiggers Bank and we ran into Horsehay. We turned right onto the A4169. We turned right onto Lightmoor Way and we ran forwards onto Little Flint. We turned left onto Little Meadow Mews and we ran forwards onto Ellens Bank. We ran forwards onto Wellington Road and we climbed the hill into Horsehay. We ran forwards onto Bridge Road and we ran forwards onto Station Road. We turned left onto Springhill Road and We ran into Heath Hill and we ran forwards Dawley Road. We ran down into Lawley and we turned right onto Proctor Ave. We turned left onto Bryce Way before turning right onto the ring road. We ran down into Lawley Bank and we turned left onto Station Road. We ran down the hill towards Overdale and we turned right into Milners Lane. We ran up Concorde and we turned left onto Bank Road. We ran forwards onto Cemetery Road and we turned right Milners Lane. We turned right onto West Centre Way and we ran towards Telford and we turned right at the roundabout onto Malinsgate wehere we saw Arriva Midlands 2503 on the #19 to Shrewsbury. We ran onto Northfield Street and we entered the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we decided to catch something quite quickly. The old entrance to the shopping centre so we walked up and down to try and find a way into the shopping centre. We went out of the bus station where we saw Arriva Midlands 3331 on the #4 to Madeley. we visited Costa Coffee. Matthew had a piece of millionaire's shortbread and a cup of Coke. Once we had used the facilities we walked back into the bus station we looked for nsomething suitable to catch and we spotted Arriva Midlands 3693 on a X5 to Shrewsbury. We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto Northfield Street. We turned right onto Hall Park Way and we ran down to the motorway. We joined Westbound M54 and forwards onto the A5. We ran fast for around 20 minutes to the edge of Shrewsbury on to the Southern by-pass. We turned right onto A5064 and we headed Northwards into town. We ran past Lord Hill's Column. We ran forwards onto Abbey Foregate. We went around the English Bridge Gyratory and we crossed over the bridge. We ran forwards onto Wyle Cop. We followed the one-way system around town and we turned right onto Barker Street. We turned right onto the A458 and we turned right into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we crossed over to the layover area. We saw Arriva Midlands 2148 on a #19 to Telford. We stood by the #64 stop and we watched buses coming and going from the bus station. On stand we saw Arriva Midlands 2518 on a #8 to Sutton Farm. We looked up the time of the next #24 or #25 bus up to Harlescott. A few minutes later we saw Arriva Midlands 2977 on a #24 to Harlescott. We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver for what turned out to be the final time today before we sat down towards the back of the bus. Whilst we waited for departure time we saw Arriva Midlands 3512 on a X70 to Oswestry. We set off of the bus station onto the A458. We joined the A528 and we followed the one-way system under the railway line. We turned left onto the A5191 and we ran Northwards. We turned right onto Newpark Road. We turned left onto Sultan Road and at the end we re-joined the Northbound A5191. We ran North to the roundabout and we turned right on the B5062. We turned left onto Featherbed Lane and right onto Alberbury Drive. We follwed the road through the estate and we turned right onto Featherbed Lane. We turned right onto Arlington Way and we crossed over the A5191 and we ran forwards onto road past the bus garage and Tesco. We stopped behind Tesco and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we we walked up towards the car. On the way we saw Arriva Midlands 2973 on a Park & Ride service. Matthew wanted to go to the toilet, but the toilet block by the Park & Ride was locked up. We got in the car and we drove to KFC. Matthew used the toilet but the KFC app didn't work in the store because there was no wifi! We got back in the car. We set off out off the Park & Ride sight onto the Northbound A5112. We joined the Northbound A53 and we ran into Bangor. We stopped at the McDonalds in the cente of town. Matthew ate burger and fries washed down with a cup of Coke. When I had finished eating we continued towards home. We set off onto the A53 and we travelled through Upper Astley for around 5 miles and into Shawbury. As we ran up towards Market Drayton we passed an unidentified Alfa coach. We ran along the Market Drayton by-pass and we continued Northwards towards Loggerheads. we crossed over the A51 and up through Whitmore. We ran Northwards towards Newcastle and we turned right onto Trentham Road. We turned left onto the A519. We joined the Northbound A500 and we ran up towards Sideway. We joined the Eastbound A50 and we came off at Heron Cross. We turned left onto Blurton Road and we ran through the lights onto Heron Street. We continued onto Station Bridge Road and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We ran to the end of the road and we got out. We walked around the corner onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to his room and chilled out in his room and use his computer and watch buses out of the window. Matthew also drank a can of Cherry Coke. Later on Matthew chilled out in his room. Matthew used his computer and watched music videos on the television. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark

Trip to Telford / Shrewsbury 05-02-2022

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
3736	Telford BS	Madeley Centre (Stand B)	1	Arriva Midlands
3334	Madeley Centre (Stand A)	Telford BS	4	Arriva Midlands
3697	Telford BS	Shrewsbury BS	X5	Arriva Midlands
2989	Shrewsbury BS	Battlefield, Adj Red Lion	511	Arriva Midlands
3699	Battlefield,Opp Red Lion	Shrewsbury BS	64	Arriva Midlands
2507	Shrewsbury BS	Shrewsbury, Shirehall	8	Arriva Midlands
3755	Shrewsbury, Shirehall	Telford BS	X5	Arriva Midlands

Today we decided to re-visit Telford. Research consisted of looking on the Arriva Website to look a t tickets and checking the weather which was for mainly dry and cloudy with rain moving in during the early evening. Matthew got up around 10:30 and had orange juice and toast for breakfast. We got ready and we set off to pick up uncle Dave around 11:50. We set off through Blurton and onto Beaconsfield Drive. We turned left onto Church Road and at the roundabout we veered left onto Blurton Road. 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. After picking up uncle Dave we continued down Wheildon Road and under the railway line. WE crossed over the canal and we joined the Northbound A500. We ran up to City Road and we had intended to turn right and straight back onto the A500. There seemed to be a problem with the right turn filter lane, so we turned right onto City Road and went under the railway bridge. We went to the roundabout and we turned 180' and back to the A500. We joined the Southbound A500 and we ran through Hanford to the end of the A500. We turned left onto the A519 and we passed Longmynd Travel D10 LMT coming the other way. We continued Southwards through Eccleshall and we ran down to the A41 Newport bypass. We joined the Southbound A518 and we headed towards Telford. We had decided that we would eat in a cafe in Dawley which is a couple of miles South of Telford. We ran down to Trench and we turned left onto the Southbound A442. We turned right onto the B4373 and we continued Southwards for a few miles over the M54. At Malinslee we veered left onto King Street and we ran into Dawley. We turnd left onto Captain Webb Drive and we entered the main town car park and parked up. Once we had parked up we walked through a passageway onto High Street and we headed to the Cafe. When we got there the cafe was closed! We decided to headed across the way to the sandwich shop and we brough Matthew a sausage sandwich, a sausage roll and a slice of chocolate cake. He also had a bottle of Coke. Once the food was ready we headed back to the car and we sat and ate the food in the car. When we had finished eating we set off on the last couple of miles into Telford town centre. We turbed onto Captain Webb Drive and we turned left onto King Street. At the roundabout we turned right onto the B5072. We headed Westwards and at the roundabout we ran forwards onto Malinsgate. We continued onto Northfield Street. We parked up at the Southfields retail park and we said goodbye to mum. We headed towards Northfield Street and we saw Arriva Midlands 2402 running out of service towards the bus station.

Arriva Midlands 2402 in Telford bus station

We crossed over the road and we had a walk around the bus station. We saw Arriva Midlands 3784 on a #5 to Stafford.

Arriva Midlands 3784 in Telford bus station

We headed into the shopping centre and Matthew used the facilities. After we had finished in the shopping centre we walked back into the bus station where we saw Arriva Midlands 3736 on a #1 Sutton Hill circular service.

Arriva Midlands 3736 in Telford bus station

We decided to do this bus so we got on and we purchased a West Midlands Day Saver Duo ticket at £12.50 before sitting down towards the back of the bus. This is a bus that we have done on at least 3 occasions previously! The bus set off out of the bus station and we turned right onto Northfield Street. We continued onto Malinsgate and at the roundabout we turned left onto Brunal Road. We followed the road through the Malinslee estate and we ran forwards onto Church Road. We turned left onto Mount Road and right onto Eyton Road. We turned right onto Johnston Road and left onto Worcester Road and we passed Arrive Midlands 3322 on a #2 to Telford. We turned right onto Lancaster Avenue and left onto King Street and we headed into Dawley. We ran forwards onto New Street and we turned left onto Finger Road. We turned right onto New Road and right onto Webb Crescent. We turned left onto Manor Road and right onto Deepfield Road. We followed the road around to the left onto Trinity Road and we headed Southwards. We turned left onto HOlly Road and we continued forwards onto Old Vicarage Road. We turned right onto Southall Way and we veered left onto Southall Road. We turned right onto Brookside Avenue and we ran around the edge of the Brookside estate. We turned left onto Bridgenorth Road and we continued Southwards. We crossed the Cuckoo Oak roundabout and we continued Southwards to the Sutton Hill Roundabout. We ran forwards onto Sutton Way and we did a complete circuit of the Sutton Hill estate before heading back Northwards up Bridgenorth Road. We turned left onto Queen Street and we crossed over the roundabout onto Madeley High Street. In the centre of town we veered left to stay on High Street and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 3736 as it continued on it's journey back to Telford.

Arriva Midlands 3736 in Madeley

Once off the bus we considered what to do next. We saw Arriva Midlands 2520 on a #18 to Much Wenlock.

Arriva Midlands 2520 in Madeley

We heard a bus pull up around the corner. It was Arriva Midland 3334 on a #4 to Leegomery. Matthew decided he wanted to go to the toilet. After using the toilet we noticed the bus was still around the corner as it was waiting time before taking the working back North. I asked Matthew if he wanted to do this bus and he decided that he would. Matthew got a picture of Arriva Midlands 3334 before we got on it.

Arriva Midlands 3334 in Madeley

We go on the bus and we placed the West Midlands Day Saver Duo ticket under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. It turns out we have been on this bus before from Leegomery to Oakengates back in October 2019. We ran onto Court Street and we turned left onto Parkway. At the roundabout we went forwards onto Mound Way. At the roundabout we went West along the B4373 before turning ritgh into Woodside Avenue. We ran around the Woodside estate before turning left onto the Northbound B4373. We ran up the the big roundabout and we turned right onto the A4169. We ran forwards onto the A442 and at the next junction we came off onto Stirchley Avenue. At the next roundabout we ran forwards onto St Quentins Gate and then forwards agin onto Northfield Street and into the bus station. We got off the bus and we did another lap around the bus station to take a few pictures and see what we could catch. After getting back into the bus station I saw that Matthew was eying up Arriva Midlands 3697 on a the X5 to Shrewsbury.

Arriva Midlands 3697 in Telford bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the West Midlands Day Saver Duo tickets under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto Northfield Street. We turned right onto Hall Park Way and we ran down to the motorway. We joined Westbound M54 and forwards onto the A5. We ran fast for around 20 minutes to the edge of Shrewsbury on to the Southern by-pass. We turned right onto A5064 and we headed Northwards into town. We ran past Lord Hill's Column. We ran forwards onto Abbey Foregate. We went around the English Bridge Gyratory and we crossed over the bridge. We ran forwards onto Wyle Cop. We followed the one-way system around town and we turned right onto Barker Street. We turned right onto the A458 and we turned right into the bus station. Once off the bus we walked around to get a few bus pictures. We saw Arriva Midlands 2988 on a #25 to Halescott Tesco.

Arriva Midlands 2988 in Shrewsbury bus station

We crossed over Raven Meadows to have a look at the buses in the layover area. We saw Tanat Valley 271 parked up in between runs on the #558 to Montgomery.

Tanat Valley 271 in Shrewsbury bus station

We crossed back over Raven Meadows and we saw Arriva Midlands 2535 on a #20 service to Radbrook Green.

Arriva Midlands 2535 in Shrewsbury bus station

Also seen was Arriva Midlands 2968 on a #11 to Gains Park.

Arriva Midlands 2968 in Shrewsbury bus station

Another vehicle seen was Arriva Midlands 2975 on a #24 to Harlescott Tesco.

Arriva Midlands 2975 in Shrewsbury bus station

We went back inside the bus station and we spotted Arriva Midlands 2989 on a #511 to Whitchurch.

Arriva Midlands 2989 in Shrewsbury bus station

Matthew decided he wanted to do this bus, so we waited for the bus to be readied for service. Once the driver was aboard, we got on the bus and we placed the West Midlands Day Saver Duo ticket under the scanner before sitting down towards the back of the bus. It turned out they we had already had this bus from Telford to Shrewsbury in October 2019. We set off out of the bus station onto Raven Mwadows and we turned right onto the A458. We turned left onto Chester Street and we turned right onto Cross Street and under the railway line. We turned left onto the A5191 and we headed Northwards out of town. I explained to Matthew that we could only go so far on this bus if he wanted to get 6 or more buses in for the day. We passed the roundabout with the Heathgates pub and we joined the Northbound A5112. We continued Northwards into Harlescott and past the Sundorne Retail park and the bus garage. We continued Northwards into the area know as Battlefield. It was at this point we decided to get up and get off the bus whilst we could still catch something back down to Shrewsbury in the opposite direction. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 2989 as it continued Northwards towards Whitchurch.

Arriva Midlands 2989 in Battlefield

Once off the bus, Matthew had spotted the pub and decided he needed the toilet. We headed into the pub and Matthew used the facilities. We returned to the bar and Matthew had a small Coke. After finishing his drink we went outside and we had spotted that the Southbound #511 had not yet come past, so we crossed over the road and waited at the stop. A few minutes later another bus appeared. It was required Arriva Midlands 3699 on a #64 to Shrewsbury.

Arriva Midlands 3699 in Battlefield

We got on the bus and we placed the West Midlands Day Saver Duo ticket under the scanner before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off Southwards out of Battlefield down the A5112 and through Harlescott. At the roundabout we joined the Southbound A5191 and we ran into Shrewsbury town centre. We went under the railway line and we turned right onto the A458. We entered the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we saw Arriva Midlands 3756 going on layover.

Arriva Midlands 3756 in Shrewsbury bus station

We crossed over Raven Meadow and we went to look at the buses on layover. We saw Minsterley Motors YJ14 BBV between runs on the #435 service to Ludlow.

Minsterley Motors YJ14 BBV in Shrewsbury bus station

Whilst travelling down from Battlefield, I worked out that we could get another bus in by catching something heading out of town along Abbey Foregate. In the bus station we saw Arriva Midlands 2507 on a #8 to Sutton Hill.

Arriva Midlands 2507 in Shrewsbury bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the West Midlands Day Saver Duo ticket under the scanner before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the bus station onto the A458 and we went left onto Chester Street. We turned right onto Cross Street and right onto Castle Foregate and past the railway station. We headed up the hill past the castle and we turned left onto St Mary's Street. We continued down the hill and we veered left onto Wyle Cop. We crossed over the English Bridge and we went under the railway line onto Abbey Foregate. We headed out of town in a South Easterly direction and we decided to get up and get off the bus outside of the Shirehall. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 2507 as it contnued towards Sutton Farm.

Arriva Midlands 2507 in Shrewsbury

Once off the bus we walked down to the Sainbury's store and we got some Toffee Crisp and a bottle of Coke. We paied for the shopping and we headed back outside to meet up with uncle Dave. Whilst we waitd for the bus we saw Arriva Midlands 3693 on a #436 to Shrewsbury. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was required Arriva Midlands 3755 on a X5 to Telford.

Arriva Midlands 3755 in Shrewsbury

We got on the bus and we placed the West Midlands Day Saver Duo ticket under the scanner for the final time today before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off onto the roundabout and we took the A5064 Southwards towards the bypass.

Arriva Midlands 2503 in Telford bus station

Arriva Midlands 3785 in Telford bus station