How to use public transport
Remember these steps for a successful journey:
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Arrive 5 minutes before the bus or train is due to arrive.
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Wait at the stop or station calmly.
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Let people off the bus or train before you get on.
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Be polite to others including the driver or train staff.
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Have your pass or money ready.
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If you don’t need a Priority seat, try to leave it free for someone who does.
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Keep your stuff with you. Ideally keep it on your lap, as you will be less likely to leave it behind.
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Try not to be too noisy, not everyone wants to hear your music.
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Look out the window to see landmarks to help you recognise when your stop is coming up.
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Wait until the bus or train comes to a stop before getting up from your seat. You don’t want to fall over it if comes to an unexpected sudden stop.
Priority Seating
All buses, trains and tubes have clearly marked priority seats for anyone who needs them. They are there to allow elderly, disabled, pregnant and injured passengers to use the public service more easily. If you do not need the seat, leave it free or give it up to another passenger who does. Remember, not all disabilities are visible.
When Using the Bus
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Signalling the Bus: To stop an approaching bus, signal the driver by putting your hand out. Many different services may use the same stop. This gesture tells the driver you want to get on.
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Confirming the Route: If you’re unsure whether the bus is heading to your destination, ask the driver when you get on. They can confirm the route and let you know the correct stop for your destination. Drivers are there to help.
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Getting Off: When your stop is approaching, press the bell once to alert the driver you want to get off at the next stop.
Live Bus Tracker
The map below from bustimes.org contains real live bus information. You can see where the bus you want is. It is an interactive map so you can move it to find information for your local area. The grey spots are bus stops. By clicking on the stops, you can check the stop name, which bus services use the stop and when to expect the next bus.
When Using the Train
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Platform & Route: Check your platform on station screens. If unsure of the route, ask a member of staff (look for uniform and badge).
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Platform Safety: Stand behind yellow lines and be aware of train doors when getting on and off the train. Don’t block closing doors.
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Onboard Information: Watch display screens for stop information and listen to staff announcements for stations, safety, and delays.
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Tickets: Have your paper ticket or e-ticket ready for scanning.
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Long Journeys: Set an alarm 10 minutes before your stop if you plan to nap.
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Seating: Front carriages may be for First Class only; check your ticket.
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Amenities: Most trains offer USB plugs and Wi-Fi for device use.
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Track Safety: Stay off the train tracks and stick to public areas only. Contact staff if you drop something on the track.
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Connections: Plan your onward journey. Most stations have bus stops or taxis outside.
Symbols on Greater Anglia Trains
If you are unsure about the symbols on the Greater Anglia trains, they are explained on their website.
Greater Anglia – Assisted Travel
If you need extra assistance on your train journey, and would like to find out more about how Greater Anglia can help visit they website.
We know that sometimes public transport can feel a bit dirty. Try taking a small pocket size hand sanitizer with you, so you can quickly clean your hands if you feel the need to.
Headphones
We get it, we all like to listen to our own music, TikToks etc, but ideally save these for when you are on the bus or train. You will be more aware of others and dangers such as traffic if you are focused on the path ahead of you.
London
For those who feel confident to travel to London, here is some useful information about using the London Underground.
If you haven’t watched it, our video will help take you through some of the steps above.
