Your not wrong Mark...Shrewsbury bus stations an absolute dump, considering it's the main Shropshire Town and welcomes visitors from all over. In regards to the tight timetabling, that's usually put together by somebody sat in an office miles away, whose never been to that area. Or, Councils put them together in areas like Shropshire where they subsidise most services. I'd presume Minsterley Motors don't use the "Greenroad" safety App that observes drivers braking/accelerating/cornering etc. The longer vehicle is probably used as this route may get busier at particular times, i.e: with school kids or during market Days Apologises for the essay, but that's a bus drivers perspective
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Andrew, apology not needed, your insight is exactly what I was looking for. I thought as much with the timetable - I bet the drivers have very little input and with stuff like this, you really need to listen to people who have knowledge of the area and experience of the routes. Thanks mate, appreciated 😊👍
@andrewfothergill33369 ай бұрын
@LetsMakeaTrip You may have considered Selects route number 96 between Shrewsbury and Telford for a future video. This route has lovely scenery from Emstrey through to Ironbridge but again, it's incredibly tightly timed
@leeallen14079 ай бұрын
No they don't use Green road or any of that unlike the major firms.....Be interesting to hear Minsterley Motors view on this video
@leeallen14079 ай бұрын
@@LetsMakeaTrip Operators don't listen to drivers , The management hate being told things are not good , i have 34 years experience and have never been listened to even by Coach operators.....except for my current employer a medium size operator who is fantastic to work for
@andrewfothergill33369 ай бұрын
@leeallen1407 I'm glad Mark chose to blank out the drivers identity in mirror though. Yes, the driver made errors, especially at that right turning, where he had to take evasive action due to meeting other bus. He should've better anticipated meeting the other bus there, as clearly experienced on route from the way he drove. But, he's still trying to earn a living in a mentally difficult job
@anianoenrique21159 ай бұрын
As a bus driver with 28 years of experience, I can tell you that time tables are usually set by desk jockeys who couldn't tell the difference between a bus and a bunch of grapes.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Yes I thought as much!
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Yes I thought as much!
@ametrinemoon9 ай бұрын
Same here. Some timetables here in aberdeenshire are um questionable.
@robertofraser1019 ай бұрын
😊cheers mate heard that few times good on ya
@derrickcuff98172 ай бұрын
Yes it's a joke now with Timetables after 25 years as bus driver, glad I left now as it's awful
@JohnnyHooverTravels9 ай бұрын
"I had a banana to calm my nerves" - this kind of voiceover gem is what has me coming back again and again. Golden ❤
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Haha, thanks mate.
@steve-marsh9 ай бұрын
Beautiful part of the world as it blurred past the window :D
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Steve, yes if you’re ever passing through, give me a shout! Maybe take the train though 😂
@The_Meowjesty9 ай бұрын
As a bus driver I always try and drive as smoothly as possible but I do sympathise with this driver as were simply not given enough time and it's sometimes necessary to rush, the timetables are pretty much set by people who don't even have a bus licence.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Yes I agree, it’s exactly how I felt and like I said, they did their best and route times should be fed back to management and improved for the benefit not just of passenger safety and comfort but to make it a better working environment for employees too. Cheers mate 😊👍
@leeallen14079 ай бұрын
@@LetsMakeaTrip It's all about money and profit , drivers are not listened to
@user-xl2bo8rh7j2 күн бұрын
@@LetsMakeaTripnothing wrong with it though you try operating a rural service to time with the amount of traffic in Shrewsbury
@ianjames91669 ай бұрын
Hi Mark, another great video. Your experience definitely reminds me of the Diamond bus route covering Redditch--Bromsgrove--Kidderminster in my neck of the woods. We often joke that the driver "is on a promise" because of the dangerous speeds, much of the route on narrow, rural roads. Yet, surprise surprise, they more or less JUST about adhere to the timetable so I agree with you that it appears these guys are under a lot of pressure to get their timings right. Honestly, at times it's like being at Blackpool Pleasure Beach riding the Mad Mouse! Keep up the great work, cheers for now.
@leeallen14079 ай бұрын
Let's be honest....Diamond haven't got the best reputation
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Ian, I have ridden with Diamond tbh but when I drive through Kiddy they always look a bit beaten up! Maybe not much investment in this part of the world.
@ashleyrobinson42179 ай бұрын
I've worked at NX on the Coach side for 8 years. Working in such a busy station with the same timetable every day you can soon pick out the 'problem services' which never seem to eun to time. Some service run with ludicrous timings not even possible on a motorbike. When it is fed back you get the usual 'we'll take a look' and thats as farvas it goes.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Ashley, it must be very difficult to communicate upwards and frustrating when no-one listens or uses people’s local knowledge and experience to try and improve things.
@kevanhubbard96739 ай бұрын
I didn't realize that Crosville got to Shrewsbury as it was pretty firmly Midland Red territory.Maybe National Welsh got in to Shrewsbury to from the south as well.Crossville was a unique NBC subsidiary in that it ran services in Wales and England mainly just the Midlands but some of it's services got north of the Mersey encountering Ribble.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Yes Kevan, mainly Midland Red here and the green Crosville buses that did turn up would be on the country bus stand. Couldn’t tell you their destinations tbh, I don’t think I ever took one.
@petersheridan29939 ай бұрын
Shrewsbury Always reminds me of my time as Manager of the Burlton Inn quite a few years ago now! This is also when I discovered hay fever at harvest time. Me being a City dweller. Thanks for the Day out.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Peter. I think I went there once, can’t remember much about it tbh, probably just passing through. Not even sure if it’s still open?
@butteredtoast82929 ай бұрын
I drive buses down country roads on two routes that are funded by the council, therefore they send the timetables. What you find currently is a lot of timetables were set during covid and havent been adjusted yet for the change in traffic/patronage. I find myself having to put my foot down but i know when and when i shouldnt be going for it (usual bends or tighter places), otherwise id be running a good 20 mins late, at peak time the traffic is so bad that regularly buses run upwards of 40 mins late on a regular basis. The driver should of been prepared to stop instead of harshly breaking in my view. The council know full well that roads have been back to being busy for about 2 years now but they dont want to know about it
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
That’s a really good point and I totally agree. Maybe the people setting the timetable need to travel on the bus on the route so that they can get some appreciation of the pressure some of these drivers are under. It’s not good for them or the passengers. Cheers mate 😊👍
@butteredtoast82929 ай бұрын
@@LetsMakeaTrip sadly as some others have said, the guys who make the timetables wont leave their offices! 😒 Fantastic content as always btw
@user-xl2bo8rh7j2 күн бұрын
Not really routes would be more often or ran better if passenger numbers were higher half the rural routes carry nobody you'll have the odd couple on a wednesday only town or city loop services really work nowadays
@simonwhitlock91899 ай бұрын
I had a friend driving for a interstate trucking company and the time he was given to get between Brisbane and Sydney was impossible to do it in, eventually the union became involved and some very steep fines where handed out and that changed their attitude, if you are delivering public transport safety should be the first priority . Good to see you arrived in one piece, take care and thanks.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Interesting comment there Simon and yes I totally agree, safety should always be no.1 yes.
@ICanPlayPiano9 ай бұрын
I've done that trip loads of times Mark as I used to live in both Ludlow and Shrewsbury and whilst it's an excellent Shropshire Hills day ranger scenic bus route along the lines of what they have in the Yorkshire Dales and Dartmoor, you are right - nearly everyone in both Ludlow and Craven Arms prefers the train to get into Shrewsbury for speed. Before deregulation, the bus was the farthest south Midland Red North 'Hotspur' would run, and it was numbered 956. Then it was renumbered 435 when Midland Red West got it (along with the 436 bus to Much Wenlock and Bridgnorth) and operated from Ludlow. Then it lost the tender to Whittle/Go Whittle and operated from their former base in Ludlow and for many years it has been Minsterley Motors. The good thing about Shrewsbury bus station was that when it opened, it was convenient for both the Darwin and the Riverside shopping centres - the sad demise of both those places have of course contributed to the sad demise of the bus station.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Yes it’s a good point about the Riverside shopping centre (I think there’s some kind of redevelopment touted around for that) but then it connected to the Pride Hill shopping centre which has also closed down and now only the Darwin is left. Better than nothing I suppose but the town’s changing and it’s more of a coffee, pub, food thing these days (as with most high streets I guess). The market’s vibrant though. And thanks for the info, I remember the Hotspur buses well but never really ventured much out of the town. Not sure I will much in the future but you never know!
@julieaylward70339 ай бұрын
Midland Red West was one of the best post-NBC companies....
@ICanPlayPiano9 ай бұрын
@@julieaylward7033 yes their X92 service was one of the most important bus services they had in their profile, linking the Second City to Cleobury and Ludlow. Not a great distance, not even forty miles but very very important for tourism shopping and access to New Street Station from a part of Shropshire where there are no rail links eastwards.
@killerqueen92989 ай бұрын
Hi, Mark. Well worth waiting for. I know most of those roads and lanes well from my days as a fax engineer for well known telecoms company. Both my wife and I love Ludlow and always stop there if we are in the area.😊😊
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Hi mate, thanks for the comment. Yes Ludlow is lovely (as is Shrewsbury tbh). I recommend both towns, just not sure I’d take the bus down there next time!
@aliksahnda7 ай бұрын
Just found your site and have subscribed. For four years until July last year, I would use the X75 Celtic Travel route from Welshpool to Shrewsbury on a Welsh bus pass (you get them aged 60 in Wales). That is a lovely run all the way to Llangurig from Shrewsbury and I used it often. I personally don't agree with the verdict on Shrewsbury bus station. I like to have a focal point to get transport and never had any problems with this location. Okay, it was occasionally under water due to the close proximity of the River Severn but it was a five minute walk to the railway station and you can take escalators from the bus station up into the Darwin Centre. When I heard that they were thinking of closing the bus station down my heart sank and I expected them to relocate to the other side of the Welsh Bridge at Frankwell...nice location but an inconvenient interchange distance from the railway station. Shrewsbury, btw, is lovely!!! I think that, judging from my numerous experiences of train delays on Transport for Wales train services I would certainly have taken the bus in preference, especially at a price of two pounds compared to nearly ten quid on the traIn (if it runs anywhere near right time). I used Minsterley Motors only a handful of times but always found them to be fine, and Arriva too with the one exception of a journey from Shrewsbury to Wem and back last summer when my driver could have won an award for the most unfriendly and unhelpful employee...my enquiry was dismissed with contempt and a lad asking for information from him was treated equally as contemptuously. Such a shame because the majority of bus drivers do a great job in often very trying conditions. Just as an aside, Celtic Travel, based in Llanidloes, have a great website that gives information on any service alterations and I found that the X75 between Welshpool and Shrewsbury was tangibly more reliable than the train.
@LetsMakeaTrip7 ай бұрын
Thanks for the sub Bob - much appreciated. Shrewsbury bus station, the location's fine (it's good actually for all the reasons you stated) I just wish they'd smarten it up a bit because it is so grim inside. But it seems like it'll be closing so there's probably no will. I have been thinking about that X75 for a while now. Probably get around to doing it in the Summer. I'm not sure I'll be rushing back to Minsterley Morors anytime soon though lol. Cheers for the comment.
@tsungiraichiramba9 ай бұрын
You should do the S6 between Oxford and Swindon because it’s class
@sandiandgregh9 ай бұрын
This video on a "quiet run in the country" was so entertaining and funny for all the wrong reasons. A very uncomfortable trip for you but OMG your facial expressions and your commentary did have us truly LOLing. Lovely countryside and villages but I think we'll skip using the bus if we get to explore Shropshire in the future.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
I try and be entertaining even on these kind of disasters lol, but yes, take the train I would. You'll be much more relaxed by the time you get to Ludlow!
@davidoliver11699 ай бұрын
Hi Mark. Wow, that was an exciting journey. I love public transport but I think the train would take it for me. Anyway, another great video. Cheers D
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers David. I normally recommend my trips but yes, I recommend taking the train for this one!
@christophernoble68109 ай бұрын
Our local bus from Yeovil to Dorchester is a bit like this. White knuckle ride most of the way! Plenty of narrow back roads too! Has to be experienced to believe! Enjoyed your video,thank you.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Christopher, maybe I’ll have to give it a go one day 👍
@knigweenis70922 ай бұрын
My Dad used to do the Oswestry to Shrewsbury bus trip for GHA Coaches on a Saturday about 15 or so years back. I joined him on the first one of the day once leaving the depot in Ruabon at about 9am to leave Oswestry at about half nine. He dropped me off in Shrewsbury at just about opening time. I got a train home. A horrible run
@user-xl2bo8rh7j2 күн бұрын
GHA wasn't exactly the best company though were they to even start with? 😅 No wonder it was a awful route
@simonflynn1689 ай бұрын
Hi think you need to come to the West Midlands and try the outer circle 11a or the 11c or the x1 from Birmingham to Coventry
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
I’ve been told about this. May be a while tbh but it’s on the list 😊👍
@richardhughes5159 ай бұрын
Great video and very fair comments. These sorts of bus journeys are very familiar to me in West Yorkshire cities.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Richard and yes this doesn’t seem an isolated instance reading of other people’s experiences.
@johncarr7129 ай бұрын
Hi Mark, I agree with what everyone else is saying. I'm a bus driver in Plymouth and our duties are set by the Exeter office. They dont seem to get there own rosters right, let alone ours. I do sympathise with drivers. The timetables are a guide however and it is better to run late and safe rather than rush through. I get complaints that I'm a minute late sometimes. How ridiculous! That green road safety system is an interesting one. Its on my buses and each time a particular bus is serviced, its seems the system is fiddled around with. I may then get an event on one bus but not on the other for driving exactly the same way. Cheers
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Hi John, cheers for the insight mate. As you know, I don't work in the industry and have little knowledge tbh, I just put videos out to give people an idea from a passengers perspective. This is why I ask for input from people like yourself who know what they are talking about, so I really appreciate the comment. I agree the drivers get stick from passengers if they're late and they probably get it from above too - a bit of a no win situation. But safety must be top priority yes. I have had one person only commenting on here who thinks I'm being bias against the bus company lol, but there's always one isn't there! All the best, Mark
@Danny-mv9qj9 ай бұрын
Another brilliant informative video! Absolutely love Shrewsbury, cracking town! Haven't done any of the local buses around the area but have done most of the trains, including down to Ludlow and Llandrindrod Wells! I've passed the bus station last year and for some reason it was empty, almost abandoned? I thought it was closed, maybe it was!
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Danny, the bus station is still alive (just), not a great advert for the town tbh!
@RWL20129 ай бұрын
the bus station seemed to fit better with the Nationals, old Darts, and Iveco and Mercedes minibuses etc. (and as this is a Minsterley Motors video, their old 70s/80s coaches). But 25 years on from the late 90s, in 2023, with the modern Optares, it really stands out for its oldness and little-changed-ness.
@peterdnreynolds7779 ай бұрын
Brilliant video as always Mark. Depending on how far the train station is from the town centre, I I think I would take the train. Hope all is well, take care
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Not far Peter. The local brewery has taken over the old goods shed (I think it is) so you can even have a pint when you get back. 5 mins max by foot 👍
@aliksahnda7 ай бұрын
Yes, the Ludlow Brewery is an absolute joy.@@LetsMakeaTrip
@markrgreenlane9 ай бұрын
Hi Mark, Minsterley Motors works out of Stiperstones up in the hills above now.
@RWL20129 ай бұрын
Isn't it Annscroft, which is over 10 miles away from Stiperstones?
@markrgreenlane9 ай бұрын
Yep I’d say you were right looking at the website and Longmynd Travel is at Lea Cross. I always thought Minsterley Motors had moved up to Stiperstones, obviously not.
@tsr2079 ай бұрын
Thoroughly enjoyable trip - was a bit quick of pace ! Mind you I suppose if you were standing in the rain with your shopping at the bus stop you would be quite happy for that service to be battering down down the country roads to you ! Keep up with these visits around Shropshire -always enjoyed travelling around the county !
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers mate, yep good point! I may make some more local trips - not sure I’ll be welcome back on Minsterley Motors tbh but there’s a few other options around.
@leeallen14079 ай бұрын
@@LetsMakeaTrip Be interesting to hear what they have to say to be honest
@markbranson7236 ай бұрын
I must say I have travelled on the 435 and my experience was nothing like yours. I travelled on an Optare Versa and an Optare Metrocity and whilst they could probably be described as "No Frills", they were comfortable enough and got me from A to B without a problem. The driving pace was not too fast and not too slow. Certainly not the white knuckle ride you describe. For a proper white knuckle ride, I dare you to try the 77/77A Honister Rambler from Keswick. The service runs from late March to early November and caters for tourists to a beautiful part of the Lake District. The buses hurtle around the circular route at an alarming pace, taking in Catbells, Seatoller, Honister Pass, Buttermere, Low Lorton and Whinlatter Forest. Last time I was on it, the Optare Solo and Solo SR used were full of bumps and scrapes associated with trying to keep to tight times on very tight and narrow country roads. At one point a fresh scrape was added whilst I was on board. That was October last year towards the end of the season, so maybe the buses are spending time in the workshop during the winter months being tidied up ready for this year's wacky races.
@jamessmith64029 ай бұрын
Thanks Mark very enjoyable video I have never been in the area so it’s great to see 👍
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers James 😊👍
@alanbrown30159 ай бұрын
Strong preference for rail on that journey. Personal that trains are better. Buses have to endure traffic and poor road surfaces. TFW have unfortunately been using joined up 'dogboxes' at times on Marches route. Thoroughly inadequate and unsuitable for mid to long distances. As video showed newer vehicles are used now.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Trouble with the train it’s like >£15 adult return now!
@timbounds71909 ай бұрын
This video reminds me of my University days where I explored parts of the Midlands by Midland Red buses. The wildly indirect nature of some of their rural routes doesn't seem to have changed! If you are chilled out, the journeys could be a lovely leisurely ramble around some lovely countryside.....but in general I'm far too impatient a person for this to happen very often!
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Tim, I think it’s a timetabling thing really. No room for manoeuvre, drivers up against it. Certainly wasn’t a very chilled out ride on my bus.
@lincolncityful19 ай бұрын
Great watch and can’t beat rallying by bus!!
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Rallying by bus, haha, love that! 😊
@Timstravels019 ай бұрын
I took a similar bus journey from Shrewsbury back in 2020. Through some narrow roads then to top it all the bus broke down! Shrewsbury Bus Station wasn’t looking its finest but I loved seeing new places and Ditherington is a place name which has stuck with me.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Ah yes Ditherington, a lovely area of town 🤔 Let m know next time you’re down mate 😊👍
@Timstravels019 ай бұрын
@@LetsMakeaTrip I certainly will and likewise when your next up this part of the world.
@user-xl2bo8rh7j2 күн бұрын
Lack of funding Shrewsbury is a lovely town and bus station isn't that terrible seen worst
@DMTransportVideos9 ай бұрын
Another bus route to try, and if you can do it nearer christmas, the peak sightseer from Chatsworth to Bakewell and back. That would be perfect doing it when the christmas lights are on
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
That does sound good. Not sure I’ll get there this year but will definitely make a note 👍
@DMTransportVideos9 ай бұрын
@@LetsMakeaTrip It runs every weekend until 24th December, then it might restart in spring or summer 2024.
@seancoleman85289 ай бұрын
Hi Mark, good video as an old driver it's the same everywhere I used to drive around Brighton and its busy
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Sean. Yes I get the impression this is not the only one!
@Treetops179 ай бұрын
That sure was a bumpy bus ride. I went to a friends Register Office Wedding in Ludlow. Was a really nice place to visit. Glad I was in a car though 😊 Hope your next journey is much better 🤗
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Ludlow’s really nice but I would recommend getting there by train or, like yourself, just drive. 😊👍
@kevinmcanulty25939 ай бұрын
one of my favourite places Ludlow brilliant walks and Christmas market. Some years ago a good walking mate of mine used the train to walk between Church Stretton Craven Arms Ludlow Leominster. Cracking walk and excellent Cardiff to Manchester line.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Heart of Wales line is great for walking too. I think they’ve done some Station to Station trails too 👍
@gazza29339 ай бұрын
I live in Lincolnshire and it's exactly the same. Narrow country lanes. Not built for modern automatic buses. Whacky Races. Interesting video Mark. 👍
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Yes Gazza, I’m getting the impression it’s the same all over!
@aodhantravels1239 ай бұрын
I totally agree with your statement about the tight timetables. My local bus routes have a very tight timetable, unfortunately there are drivers who will drive slow on purpose which causes delays on a regular basis. Some drivers drive too quickly at times just to try and keep to time which I totally empathise with them.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
It’s hard on the drivers I agree. Sounds like a bit of a lottery who you get but the timetable is a major factor in this. Cheers 😊👍
Properly? My mother who was Shrewsbury born and bred would vehemently disagree. But I have since learnt, like most things English, habits of pronunciation reflect a distinctive class divide. The natives are likely to politely put it down to whether you hail from north or south of the river.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
@nocturn791 Born and bred here too and I do agree with your comment. Yes I do pronounce it ‘properly’ as does your mother (who is obviously posher than me!)😂
@smogontheline6 ай бұрын
Loved the video, Mark. I chuckled at the 'I had a banana to calm my nerves' 😂 It needs to be on a T-shirt. Just sat binge watching your videos now. Good work. Andy.
@LetsMakeaTrip6 ай бұрын
Cheers Andy and thanks very much for watching. I try to inject a bit of humour if I can 😂👍
@DaveinLeeds9 ай бұрын
Hi Mark, thanks for that, very enjoyable to watch if not to travel on! I noticed there was a return journey on the 435 at 12:20 from Ludlow so assuming it doesn't interwork with another service in Ludlow that's an eight-minute turnaround for the driver. If you don't mind me pointing out a small error, you make a reference to the CoastRIDER services from Leeds; they're actually CoastLINER! Looking forward to the next video.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Yes my mistake Dave. I did make a video on that route, just forgot what it was called!! Cheers for the comment mate 😊👍
@stanley36479 ай бұрын
Highly agree! Optare Solo bus will be perfect for this route. Plus: front axle in this bus is at very front, so tight corners are easy. Our bus operator in Derbyshire replaced Optare buses to bigger ones, only because high demand. But before replacement, I always was amazed how many people can squeeze into one ;)
@user-xl2bo8rh7j2 күн бұрын
Optare solo? 😅 Think what they currently use is fine enough if there was any issues they would be sorting it problem with online nowadays people create issues for no reason when don't even know the area
@adamdennison86219 ай бұрын
Think I would rather the train take the strain then leave me life in hands of this bus driver! Looks lovely area though. Another great vid Mark 👍
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
I just don’t want to point the finger at the bus driver though Adam because I think the timetable is just too tight. Cheers mate 😊👍
@davesdaze9 ай бұрын
Hi Mark. Phew, what a fast driver..... I got jittery watching you bombing around those lanes. Was the driver in a hurry to get to the next world. Glad I wasn't aboard. The bus looked more like park and ride bus. The window next to you was shaking. Nice to see anyway. See you on the next one. Hope u are well. Don't have nightmares. Best wishes David and Beverley Norfolk
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Hi both and cheers. Yep not the best buses in the world, Shropshire I guess there’s not a massive amount of investment or demand tbh. Don’t think I’ll be doing it again!
@williamreynolds11639 ай бұрын
My son used to take this bus from Shrewsbury to Church Stretton to go to school as had moved from Church Stretton ,Howver the way the timetables ran he took the train in the end as otherwise he had to wait in the town for an hour for the school to open and a long wait at the end of the day as well .
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
And I thought with the size of these buses, they were set-up (partly) for the school runs.
@williamreynolds11639 ай бұрын
The school ran its own buses ,but as he had moved to Shrewsbury the school bus would only go as far as Bayston Hill from memory so he had to find his own way. .I have to say it was about 5 years ago!@@LetsMakeaTrip
@jennyhouse67489 ай бұрын
I really enjoyed visiting The Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre. Thank you for another brilliant video
@bustersw17609 ай бұрын
I did 40 years "on the buses" and retired 10 years ago. When I started in `72, on London Country, we had plenty of time on our routes, with recovery time built in at turnrounds. Then in the mid 80`s, along came deregulation and privatisation. This meant greedy bosses screwing every minute out of journeys with short or no turn round times. Then, instead of timetable planners who had worked actually "on the platform" and were promoted off the road, we got university kids in all our managerial jobs, with their diploma and no experience. This meant foot down and no time for the passengers, which is probably why bus drivers have a rep for being miserable. I left the buses and went coach driving. Much less stress, though long hours and more interesting.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Exactly this mate and I totally agree with what you’ve said. Employees lower down and passengers feel the pain (as always) 👍
@lawriedavidson63519 ай бұрын
I I used to compile the schedules for London Transport many years ago. In those days, we had Timing Inspectors who went out checking that running times were correct, we liaised with the local union and often took on board their suggestions and varied the running times according to the time of day. All very civilised. Then came de-regulation and tendering and then everything got screwed up to save every penny. Not surprised the running times are what they are now.
@walterfillingham9 ай бұрын
Similar to Optare Solo, used to be popular with Stagecoach Highlands and Stagecoach Bluebird in Aberdeenshire, most gone now. Always have a bit of a pocket rocket reputation, always thought there were a bit jerky to travel on as the wheels forward of the driver a door.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Yep and ok on better roads, no problem at all but some of these lanes with poor visibility ahead due to high hedges. Timetable needs sorting imo 👍
@user-xl2bo8rh7j2 күн бұрын
Similar? It's a completely different bus and chassis and engine 😅
@jackmaher92969 ай бұрын
Quality video mark. I’ve only been Ludlow once and that was for the horse racing 😂
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
I’ve never been to the races, driven through the course a few times though 👍
@jackmaher92969 ай бұрын
👍👍👍
@melvynbuckton68819 ай бұрын
So much excitement. And that's just finding the bus. I said Shrewsbury was interesting.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
It is Mel, you should pay me a visit!
@melvynbuckton68819 ай бұрын
That's a very kind offer. Unfortunately I've had 3 heart ops this year and covid loves people with dodgy hearts. Going on your local buses would probably also kill me from the F1 style driving excitement!
@karljoachimgoll9 ай бұрын
Looks like great fun - nothing for the fainthearted, of course. 🤣
@CanuckJim9 ай бұрын
Hope you took the train back!
@sheilam45259 ай бұрын
A banana to calm your nerves😂😂. That was some journey! Must be so stressful for the drivers having to keep to a strict time.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
I think it’s difficult for the drivers yes. Safety of passengers should be number one concern for the company though and if timetables are compromising that it’s not a good thing imo.
@andrewclark86309 ай бұрын
You've been spoilt by the luxury of National Express coaches!
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Haha, that’s true!
@RWL20129 ай бұрын
The thing with Optare buses when fitted with the Cummins ISB6.7 engine (rather than the 4.2-litre Mercedes) is that Optare don't restrict the throttle response or set low engine speeds for gear changes like Alexander Dennis (for example) would do, so abrupt and quick acceleration is available to the driver.
@MICHAELMEEHAN-vj6zh9 ай бұрын
Have the bus company commented on this video( may not have seen it) If they have seen it they probably (sadly) don't see it as a complaint. Good information for future travellers Thanks
@highpath47769 ай бұрын
I have a feeling DSA Driving Examiners prefer bus drivers to keep to the upper end of general traffic speeds.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Michael, I’m not expecting a response, companies hardly ever engage tbh. Not bothered other way as it’s my 100% honest experience and I’ll always show it as such. Up to them if they want to comment 😊👍
@highpath47769 ай бұрын
Did this in 1983 in the opposite direction. I was working at NatEx in Edgbaston for a couple of weeks updating prestel pages and general enquiries. Went Birmingham-Ludlow - Shrewsbury-Birmingham on the middle saturday of my time staying in Erdington. I cannot remember the vehicles - S12s? I should have transparancies somewhere. All Midland Red and the MAP local identities had just recently come in before the division of Midland Red (which had already lost garagea and routes to the WMPTE transfer some 9 or so years earlier. I had done a quick visit to Birmingham a couple of Saturdays prior to see where I might be staying travelling up from Oxford on the ?Joint? South Midland/Midland Red Oxford Birmingham bus service. Decent time on that , I suppose I could have stayed in Oxford and commuted daily - would have been fun. I actually lived in London so Mondays it was the X90 to Oxford from Victoria. (sometimes back via the 390 on a friday or saturday to get off at Heathrow Bus Station and then Local route to Kingston.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers mate - the Midland Red buses were certainly great memories for me. I’m not sure if they were any good thinking back but I guess you don’t remember the bad times!
@simonboulton44909 ай бұрын
I use the bus a lot in East Yorkshire and they use Enviro 400s and the seats are comfortable as the journey time from Bridlington to Hull is 2 hours . I think the bus was to big for the country lanes and the width of the bus. May be they should use Dennis Dart buses they are shorter and would cope with the lanes. A great video and I enjoy all the modes of transport you do video’s on.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Simon, hanks again for the comment. My first time with Minsterley Motors and this was just my honest opinion. Not sure anything will change but you never know 😊👍
@AymanTravelTransport5 ай бұрын
Seems like a LOT of fun to ride though, think of it like a nicer alternative to a rollercoaster. Personally, I prefer this type of pace over the sluggishness of city buses.
@transporthub_9 ай бұрын
I thought the video title was Shrewsbury to London on the bus 😂😂 which would be a cool bus route , anyway I saw it was to Ludlow instead the title when I clicked on the video but it’s still a good video anyway 👍🏼
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers mate. Not sure I could’ve done this all the way to London! Roads would’ve been better though 😊👍
@spacecowboy1519 ай бұрын
As an enthusiast (one that loves a Metrocity) I would have loved this ride
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Plenty of handrails on them to hold onto!
@patriciajervis39099 ай бұрын
I used to live on newtown wales and went shresbury a lot hasnt it changed good video
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Thanks Patricia, no still the same old place. Food and drink has improved though I reckon 👍
@neilcrawford83039 ай бұрын
I find catching a bus at some locations can be stressful. Lack of signage or general information, having to second guess where the bus will leave from, especially if the designated stand is occupied. My favourite is Preston, while I found Chester pretty bad. Even basic information like maps or details near the entrance that list the bus routes and where they leave from. Leigh is another bad one. The pedestrian route isn't easy to navigate and finding the right bus stand can be fun. The biggest joke of a bus station is the recently rebuilt one at Ormskirk. A horseshoe drive with a series of bus shelters, which at best each can give up to five waiting passengers shelter on a wet and windy winter's day. There's zero facilities, no central bus maps or route-stand information area, no real-time information. The council having the neck to call it a bus station is the biggest laugh.
@aliksahnda7 ай бұрын
I now live in the Preston area and the bus station in this city is superb; everything that a bus station should be. Amenities include a cafe, barbers, phone repair shop, loos, and security for reassurance. The departure boards are excellent and although the design of the bus station may not please everyone aesthetically, I think it is a gem. Short walk from the covered market and the main shops on Frenchgate.
@williamm76424 ай бұрын
Thanks
@LetsMakeaTrip4 ай бұрын
Hi William, many thanks for the 'Superthanks'! I don't get many tbh so it's very much appreciated and I can assure you it will be 100% put back into the channel to make more content. Thanks again and I'm glad you enjoyed the video.
@robertofraser1019 ай бұрын
Yea I don't go on day trips much but when I do I enjoy its 60 years age for bus pass here Scotland sadly I helieve its 66 in England BUT you said I never knew price cap of £2 I never knew so that's fantastic country buses can give amazing views I had a beautiful journey in summer from dundee too blairgowrie giving chance when I in England not much chance yet but when I do will see some beautiful villages towns BUSES yea they can nip on at times in a double decker erm wow 😊😊😊 thank you you do these bus videos good cheers mate have a good week have you done dundee or Perth too blairgowrie ? Worth a try when up this neck woods beautiful keep up good work hold on tight now 😊 better than slow slow buses that take forever
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Roberto. I’ve done a few buses in Scotland but not the ones you mention. There’s good value in the £2 price cap so I’ll be doing a few more in England next year for sure 😊👍
@shoeahorse9 ай бұрын
Hi Mark, Thanks for the video...Lets hope it reaches the right people....I had to wonder what would have happened if a group of kids were out riding their ponies out on those roads....Does not bear thinking about... I'd love to see the reaction of the bus being held up by a traction engine chuffing along the road
@roystonvasey54719 ай бұрын
I travelled on the Chinese bus network during my five years there. Your bus journey reminded me of that not what I would expect in the UK.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
I haven’t had the pleasure of Chinese buses, sounds like maybe that’s a good thing!
@gabrielstravels9 ай бұрын
I've done the 435 route from Shrewsbury to Ludlow. Tbh, it was fine. Quite a good route too tbh
@robertalan32149 ай бұрын
Hi Mark, shame on the people who design these timetables, putting the driver under so much pressure, no thought for the paying public getting thrown around, sometimes the drivers dont even have time to let people sit down before moving off, its ridiculous , thanks for sharing that bud 👍
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Robert, safety of driver and passengers should be top priority and the timetable should be set accordingly (in my opinion). 😊👍
@mahinahmed23165 ай бұрын
I don't mean to a bully or anything but if ride comfort you are after then sitting at the very back is not a good idea, I would avoid all the rows beyond the back wheel if I were you. To me, the safety and stability of modern busses are underestimated. The ride looked quite speedy but I wouldn't call it reckless or safety compromising. My view is, when you have good road conditions that favours speedy driving then it is not a bad idea to speed up a notch.
@adlam975319 ай бұрын
Unfortunately, sometimes the timetables are written so they work with another route or to keep the number of buses down . I remember a rural route for which you got 50 minutes. And you would struggle to do it in a car , especially with all the hills , but the county council timed it - and that’s how it was . You was always chasing your tail and in the wet the buses we had were very lively
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Yep, good point. It sure if this bus was going straight back or it could’ve been connecting through. Maybe the people setting the timetables could take a trip on the bus and see if it can be tweaked a bit for passenger comfort?
@adlam975319 ай бұрын
@@LetsMakeaTrip the chances are that is used as a school bus outside of that trip, hence why they use such a long vehicle and again it has to fit in with drivers hours too. Yes, it needs to re-timed, and now you could not drive like that in London as the buses report when you go over 20mph.
@TravelSignal9 ай бұрын
Good video mate, definitely a look at the "real" service. As many have said, I doubt the driver has much choice. Shame really.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Yeh, most drivers who have commented agree. Certainly not pointing the finger at the drivers, seems quite common the timetabling thing (centralisation, progress etc🙄).
@philjones95552 күн бұрын
Come to london the bus drivers dont appear to know about the speed limits. Usually a couple of tourists a year knocked down and killed.
@DavidGloyne-vf9sv9 ай бұрын
I've worked in road haulage for over forty years and can tell you that most, if not all transport managers I've come across have little or not experience and some haven't been on the road for over twenty yrs, no wonder the time tables are way out.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Yep, I’m not surprised. Probably all done on software someone’s sold them now!
@rossharrisonmcintyre23029 ай бұрын
This is what is like on Jersey, CI. Wide buses on single track roads trying to pass one another, but hey they only got 30mph at best.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
I did find that a bit when I was there. One or two double deckers as well.
@calebmumby58039 ай бұрын
crazy Experience there Mark but nice!!
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Caleb, not sure I enjoyed it that much but hopefully you found it ‘entertaining’! 😊👍
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Caleb, not sure I enjoyed it that much but hopefully you found it ‘entertaining’! 😊👍
@6yjjk9 ай бұрын
Insane. A much more relaxing ride for you to have a go on would be the number 70 from Plymouth over to Cremyll via the Torpoint Ferry. An absolute gem, I have to do it every time I'm in Plymouth. You wonder how they can possibly get a whacking great double-decker through some of those villages. (By leaving paint on the walls is how.) Spectacular coastal views, and a pub at the end! Also Mount Edgcumbe country house, and you can get the Cremyll Ferry from right outside the pub for a shorter ride back into Plymouth.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
That sounds great for the summer. I’ll add it to my list 👍
@djburland9 ай бұрын
I agree with you the speed down those lanes was mad!
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Yep, timetable needs adjusting imho.
@mysterybiscuits9 ай бұрын
I use the 21 from Lakeside of Ellesmere to Reabrook (with my disabled concessionary pass), and I can't remember the last time I saw someone pay for it instead of using a concessionary pass!
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
My mum and dad tell me the same!!
@Tmen111119 ай бұрын
Hope you got the train back Mark!!
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Er, possibly!
@stewartferguson97749 ай бұрын
thanks for highlighting these timetable issues.I am a driver in a rural setting and have to constantly flirt with legality to complete my journeys on time.i call my route the hamster wheel because once youre in the cab you cant get out again for a breath of air as you are constantly chasing your tail.my theory is that the route was timed at 0400 on christmas morning on a motorbike and god forbid that you stop to pick up or alight passengers as there is little or no allowance made for this.from a drivers point of view it is frustrating and more than a little depressing and some of these route planners should be in jail.one theory i heard is that they cane the drivers this way to fit more journeys in during the daily operating period.it really is awful mark.please consider the poor bugger in the driving seat on your entertaining journeys.cheers pal.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Hi Stewart, apologies your comment ended up in my ‘held for review’ box (I think it’s because there was no space after your full stops so the auto process thought they were websites!). Anyway, I totally agree with what you’re saying because it reflects what other drivers have told me too. Tbh, I just had a theory and have no experience of working in the industry. I just put these up to show from a passenger’s perspective just taking a trip out and, what I thought would be a nice journey through some great countryside just turned into a total rush around. I was at great pains not to point the finger at the drivers (I blurred them out too just in case). Reason being, I think they can really struggle to hit the timetable requirements, potentially compromising passenger safety. The timetables are the cause imo and it seems to me as if local knowledge and experience is never considered or consulted. I wish you all the best mate, it can’t be easy and I don’t envy you tbh. Cheers.
@MrScottdjb899 ай бұрын
Do love Shrewsbury, when I lived in Wolverhampton I’d travel there a few times.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
It’s ok yes, lots of worse places to live 👍😊
@paulhadley78559 ай бұрын
I have travelled on thes 125 bus service stourbridge to bridgnorth via highley and i found from bewdley to bridgnorth section on the narrow roads the bus is going very fast i would not like to drive that fast. so i can agree with you. thanks for a truthfull report.
@johnmullin11889 ай бұрын
Lol 😳 cheaper than going to the fair Mark IV named it mad Max ride for £2 quid ✅ I personally would take the bus and thanks for showing your followers were to get the fairground journey all the best John 😊
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Haha, thanks John and if you do this one, good luck 😊👍
@clarea180117 күн бұрын
I'd love to visit Shrewsbury, have you visited the prison? Also reminds me that my aunty had a bad accident on a bus operated by stagecoach, not sure how much compensation she got but its probably going to run into a couple of hundred thousand pounds.
@enricomonti1569 ай бұрын
Such driving stile is something that I got used over the years in Malta (some drivers too tend to speed over here in narrow roads). Anyway, Shropshire looks like a lovely place to visit and about Shrewsbury I did not know of its significant Medieval history. Might need to pay a visit
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Give me a shout if you do mate 😊👍
@AtlanteanAN699 ай бұрын
The timetable scheduler obviously drove the route on a motorbike at 4am on Christmas morning.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Haha, yep that’s what I thought!
@arthurbraddock52359 ай бұрын
That's worst driving have seen on PSV bus . Good job none of the older ones weren't standing waiting get off 😊
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
That’s a good point Arthur, one of them could’ve trod on my phone!!
@The-Anxious-Travller9 ай бұрын
Personally Mark, id rather take the train, less stress and by the way this driver was going id feel a lot safer on the train! that looked an awful and stressful journey!
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Thing is James, the train is over £15 now adult return. £4 on the bus is quite a difference.
@The-Anxious-Travller9 ай бұрын
@@LetsMakeaTrip yes there is a price difference and it’s good to see the alternatives for many that may have people traveling with them and may not be able to pay the train fares, I guess that’s what I like about your channel is that you look at all alternatives… I think vloggers like your self and Scott at planes trains and everything always allow an insight into all travel options for all budgets.. keep up the good work Mark, your channel is always a joy to watch!
@stanley36479 ай бұрын
You cannot pickup train when they are on strike, or service is cancelled. Not pleasent experience with overcowded, undersized, delayed service - but with premium price. This is my experience in last few years. And most of people in North... I using trains only if I must.
@andrewharrison76259 ай бұрын
i've been a driver in Manchester for 10+ years i suspect you will find it's a combination of the local council setting unrealistic timetables because it's a tendered paid for route and having spent part of my life living in Ludlow and Church Stretton the A49 is a vert unforgiving road especially in a large vehicle
@tommoseley74589 ай бұрын
Ill take that bus with room over my TFW trip from Shrewsbury to Ludlow.Yet again a overcrowded 2 car train on a long distance route. They need to up their game.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
That is a good point Tom. Some of these TfW trains are tight for space. Some are great (loco-hauled) but it’s a bit of a lottery what you’re going to get.
@iainjones50029 ай бұрын
What a lot of the general public don't know is that the rail operators aren't at fault for what number of carriages they place on routes. Instead, when the rail franchises are awarded, it's the relevant government which determines what each rail operator places what each train will consist of in service on each route.
@RoddyJenkins9 ай бұрын
Guessing it depends on how quickly you need to get between Shrewsbury and Ludlow,and vice versa. Whilst the bus journey would be free for me (one of the few peak of being visually-impaired…I get free bus travel in England) although given the limited (?) onboard facilities, I’d probably be tempted to take the train with a railcard discount. What we didn’t see in the video Mark, was you dashing into a pub in Ludlow to get a pint to calm your nerves after that experience…!!
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Haha, cheers Roddy. Ludlow Gold is a lovely pint btw. I don't really drink in the day so ended up in Costa! I'd take the train to get there quickly - no question.
@aliksahnda7 ай бұрын
I think my most alarming "over-fast" bus journey was a little over a year ago on a T12 from Welshpool to Wrexham. The speed of the vehicle especially in the vicinity of Llynclys caused several passengers visible concern. In total contrast, however, when I was recently in London, I was wanting the driver to get a move on because I had a hopper ticket which allows any number of changes as long as you do them within an hour of boarding the first bus. Speed restrictions a-la-Khan meant that even on the 93 route by Wimbledon Common we trundled at a horse-bus rate raising my blood pressure considerably , LOL! @@LetsMakeaTrip
@sarahillingworth27189 ай бұрын
I think they've extended the £2 fare cap till end of next year.. your area looks nice 👍
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
They have Sarah so plenty of room for more videos! Shropshire’s pretty nice, most of it. Worth a visit anyway 👍😊
@sarahillingworth27189 ай бұрын
@@LetsMakeaTrip oh ok I'd probably go in spring of next year 👍
@iainjones50029 ай бұрын
@@LetsMakeaTrip Of course, it's down to operators if they wish to utilise the Government's £2 fare cap scheme. Most do, but not all operators in the UK are doing so, thus on some UK routes, you may find that the usual fares will be charged.
@DJGlenR19796 ай бұрын
A fellow Shrew :D
@paulhellander27919 ай бұрын
Yea, that was a bit too rushed, Mark. Lovely countryside and would have been better savoured than expressed. I think Minsterley needs to re-assess its priorities on this line (and others?) You are lucky to live in a nice part of the UK 🙂 Paul in Oz [a nice part called Adelaide].
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers Paul, it’s a nice area round here yes. Would’ve loved to have been able to relax on this trip but it wasn’t to be. I’ll take the train next time I think.
@opagodaswirling93839 ай бұрын
Very interesting tale featuring some splendid Shropshire towns and villages . I hear that Ludlow is a brilliant place . is it possible to travel around the area at two quid a pop ? That sounds a bargain -- even if it was a white-knuckle ride ! I must say you appeared more at home on the Malaysian train .
@highpath47769 ай бұрын
Probably even cheaper with operator or county day rover ticket
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Cheers, yep I was just travelling the one journey, intending to go back on the train but I think for several journeys, there’s probably a better rover option 👍
@TheBorzoilover5 ай бұрын
If i had been on that bus going at that speed i would have fainted if i had not got off first.
@cabovermike7 ай бұрын
Your getting old mark, i can remember the old crosville buses that took us from st martins secondary school to the public baths in oswestry, one driver "our favourite" used to sling the thing around corners much to our delight,.
@LetsMakeaTrip7 ай бұрын
I know! Felt a few years older after this ride too 😂
@gemmarie76839 ай бұрын
It's really disappointing isn't it when you're really looking forward to something and it all goes a bit Pete Tong. Nevertheless, another great video, as the honesty is what makes it. It is a route I am very familiar with on the Train, as 20 years ago I'd go between Wolverhampton and Hereford regularly. I love a bit of History so will have to check out Church Stretton, but will go by Train 😂.
@LetsMakeaTrip9 ай бұрын
Trouble with being honest sometimes is some will perceive it as whinging if they don’t like what they hear. I can’t do anything about that lol but you should check out Church Stretton and Ludlow - both nice towns 😊👍
@wayneeschbank28959 ай бұрын
great country trip but don't think that it's only your local bus driver that has to drive like that it's just the same I Sydney and almost any other major city in Australia as with contracts operators have to get the most out of they drivers. look forward to your next video trip