Hop on Board: £2 Bus Fares Make Exploring the Highlands Easier Than Ever

8th June 2026

£2 Bus Fare Scheme Drives Accessible and Sustainable Travel Across the Highlands

With the school holidays approaching, The Highland Council is encouraging residents and visitors to make the most of the £2 single fare cap on its in-house bus services.

The initiative is helping to make public transport more accessible and affordable, particularly for families looking for low-cost ways to travel during the summer months.

Get out on a few day trips, make some sandwiches and go to few new place for the day.

Chair of The Highland Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans said: “The £2 fare cap means passengers can travel for less, opening- up opportunities to explore the Highlands, whether it’s visiting friends and family, accessing local amenities, or enjoying days out without the cost of fuel and parking.

“At the same time, we are investing in greener, more reliable buses that will benefit communities by providing a practical and affordable way to get out and about. From city routes to connections serving local communities, the services provide passengers with easy access to green spaces, leisure facilities and attractions across the region.”

Since the £2 single journey cap has been introduced in April, the Council’s fare paying passenger figures in the first month rose by 25% and in last month by 36% compared to last year’s passenger figures.

The Council is continuing to invest in the future of public transport. Additional vehicles have already been brought into service to strengthen reliability, with further improvements planned, including the introduction of more electric buses and enhanced onboard information systems.

Councillor Gowans added; “With a growing network of services across communities such as Milton of Leys and Dalneigh, early figures show encouraging passenger numbers, demonstrating increasing confidence in local bus travel. Positive feedback has also been received the Castle Experience buses that were launched earlier this year, highlighting how public transport can play a key role in supporting both residents and visitors.”

At a recent Economy and Infrastructure Committee, members were advised that funding has been secured from Transport Scotland for 10 zero-emission buses and supporting infrastructure, helping to reduce emissions while delivering a modern, sustainable fleet.

The £2 single fare cap applies to all passengers. However, anyone under 22 or over 60 who are resident in Scotland can travel for free with a National Entitlement Card. For details and to apply visit https://www.nec.scot/

Full timetable information and journey details are available on the Council website. https://www.highland.gov.uk/downloads/download/10/highland-council-bus-service-timetables