Public Transportation in Weymouth
Summary: Mastering the public transportation system in Weymouth is a crucial aspect of adapting to life there. This article provides a detailed overview of the available local transit options.
Weymouth, a charming seaside town in the United Kingdom, offers a variety of public transportation options for both locals and visitors. The town is served by a comprehensive bus network, a reliable train service, and a number of taxi companies. The bus services are primarily run by First Wessex, while the train services are provided by South Western Railway. For those who prefer a more private mode of transportation, there are several taxi companies operating in the town. With such a robust public transportation system, it's entirely possible for an expat living in Weymouth to comfortably live without a car, relying on public transportation and walking.
Buses
The bus service in Weymouth is extensive, with routes covering the entire town and extending to nearby areas. First Wessex operates the majority of the bus services, offering regular routes to destinations such as Dorchester, Portland, and Bridport. The buses are generally safe and reliable, making them a good option for anyone, including women travelling alone or children going to school. The cost of bus travel in Weymouth is reasonable, with single tickets starting from £2.40 and day tickets available for unlimited travel. There are also weekly and monthly passes for frequent travellers.
Trains
Weymouth is well-served by the South Western Railway, with the town's train station located conveniently in the town centre. The train service offers direct routes to major cities such as London, Bristol, and Southampton. The trains are generally safe and reliable, with CCTV cameras installed for added security. A single ticket to London costs around £40, but cheaper fares are available if you book in advance or travel off-peak. The train station also has facilities such as a ticket office, waiting rooms, and a café, making it a comfortable place to wait for your train.
Taxis
For those who prefer a more private mode of transportation, there are several taxi companies operating in Weymouth. These include Weyline Taxis, Bee Cars, and A2B Taxis. The taxis are generally safe and reliable, with all drivers required to pass a background check. The cost of a taxi ride in Weymouth varies depending on the distance travelled, but a short journey within the town centre typically costs around £5. Most taxi companies also offer airport transfers, with a journey to Bournemouth Airport costing around £50.
Walking and Cycling
Weymouth is a compact town, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike. The town centre is pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of pedestrianised streets and crossings. There are also several cycle paths and bike hire services available. Walking or cycling is not only a cheap and environmentally friendly way to get around, but it also allows you to enjoy the town's beautiful seaside scenery.
In conclusion, Weymouth's public transportation system is comprehensive and reliable, making it entirely possible for an expat to live comfortably without a car. Whether you prefer to travel by bus, train, taxi, or on foot, you'll find that getting around Weymouth is easy and convenient.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.