Guidance for using Public transport
You can continue using the public transport network if you need to travel for an exempt reason.
Plan your journey using Moovit to stay updated with the latest travel changes.
Travel may take longer than normal on some routes due to social distancing measures. Allow more time if your journey involves changes between different forms of transport.
If you can:
- travel at off-peak times
- use quieter stations and stops – get off a stop early if it’s less busy
- keep changes to a minimum, for example, between bus and train
On your journey
You must wear a face covering on public transport and in substantially enclosed areas of transport hubs in England. You will be breaking the law if you fail to do so and could be fined.
You should stay 2 metres apart from people you do not live with where possible, or 1 metre with extra precautions in place (such as wearing face coverings).
Help keep yourself, other passengers and transport staff safe by observing the following precautions:
- ensure you maintain social distancing, where possible, including at busy entrances, exits, under canopies, bus stops, platforms or outside of stations
- limit the number of people that you come into contact with, for example, avoid travelling during peak hours
- wash or sanitise your hands regularly
- avoid touching your face
- cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the inside of your elbow when coughing or sneezing
- travel side by side or behind other people, rather than facing them, where seating arrangements allow
- touch as few surfaces as possible
- stay outdoors, rather than indoors, where possible
- minimise the time spent close to other people, where possible
- avoid loud talking, shouting or singing
- dispose of waste safely, including items such as used disposable face coverings
- be prepared to queue or take a different entrance or exit at stations
- wait for passengers to get off first before you board
- wait for the next service if you cannot safely keep your distance on board a train, bus or coach
- avoid consuming food and drink on public transport, where possible
- respect other people’s space while travelling
- be aware of pregnant, older and disabled people who may require a seat or extra space
- be aware that not all disability is visible and some people may be exempt from wearing a face covering
- where possible, check in using the NHS COVID-19 app if you enter a venue that has an official NHS COVID-19 QR code poster at the entrance – alternatively, you can provide your contact details
Completing your journey
When finishing your journey:
- consider walking or cycling from the station or stop you arrived at
- wash your hands for at least 20 seconds or sanitise your hands as soon as possible – do the same for children who have travelled with you