Getting Around York as a Student: Tips, Discounts, and Routes You Must Know

TL;DR: 

• £1 bus fares for under-19s
• Free campus buses for uni students
• Cycling-friendly routes all over the city
• Great rail links to nearby cities

Just moved into your student accommodation in York? Or maybe you're planning your uni life and wondering how you’ll get around this beautiful, historic city without spending a fortune? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

York makes student travel super easy (and budget-friendly!). From £1 bus fares and free uni shuttles to cycling routes and train connections, there are loads of ways to get from campus to the city centre, or anywhere else you need to be.

In this ultimate guide to York’s transport system for students, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, how to save money, which apps to download, and the travel tips every student should know.

Let’s get moving, the city’s waiting!

Pro tips to save even more:

• Download the First Bus app for easy travel
• Get a YOzone card for cheaper fares
• Consider an annual travel pass to cut costs long-term

York isn’t just about getting from A to B, it's about enjoying everything student life has to offer. Want to dive deeper into what makes living and studying here so special? Check out our full guide on student life in York for tips on making the most of your time in this vibrant city.

Getting to York: Your First Journey

So, you're heading to York, exciting! Whether you're coming from London, Edinburgh, or flying in via Manchester Airport, getting here is easy.

York Railway Station is a major hub with direct trains from:

• London King’s Cross (just 2 hours)
• Edinburgh, Leeds, and Manchester Airport

Once you arrive, you’re already in the heart of the city, and getting to your new student accommodation is simple.

From the Station to Your Student Accommodation

• By Bus: Around 22 minutes to the University of York campus
• By Taxi: Roughly £12 for a 15-minute ride
• No Uber in York, use local taxi services instead
• Good to know: Bus stops and taxi ranks are right outside the station entrance!

York’s Student-Friendly Bus Network

First Bus: Your Go-To for Getting Around

First Bus runs the main bus services in York, and they're super student-friendly, offering discounted passes and regular services.

Key Routes for Students:

• U1 & U2 – Frequent uni services, every 7–8 minutes
• UN1 – Late-night service (aka the "Clubbers' Bus")
• Regular city routes – Connect student hotspots, the city centre, and beyond

Free Travel on the University of York Campus

The Campus Zone lets you ride for free between these key spots:

• York Sport Village (Campus East)
• Green Dykes Lane
• The Retreat
• Fulford Golf Club

Important: Always tap on AND tap off, or you’ll get charged the full fare!

Service frequency:

• Term time: Buses every 7–8 minutes
• Summer: Reduced timetable (until Sept 7, 2025)
• Late nights: UN1 runs 7 days a week

College-Specific Transport: York College

If you’re a York College student, you’ve got access to 15 private bus routes covering areas public transport doesn’t reach.

What You Need to Know:

• Morning & evening routes synced with class times
• All buses wheelchair accessible (PSVAR compliant)
• Apply by: End of August 2025
• New ShuttleID system: Parents get live boarding updates
• Extra buses added to popular routes

Need help with costs? If your household income is under £35,000 and you live over 2.5 miles from college, you may be eligible for a transport bursary.

Student Discounts and Smart Travel Savings in York

Saving money as a student in York is easier than you think, thanks to age-based discounts, student passes, and some clever travel hacks. Here's everything you need to know to keep your transport costs low and your budget on track.

Age-Based Discounts

If you're under 19:

• £1 single fare on any bus in York (until 30 March 2025)
• £2.50 All York Young Person's Day Ticket
• £12 All York Young Person's Week Ticket

Under 16s ride free when accompanied by an adult

If you're over 19 (but still a student):

• £1.50 student single fare on First Bus
• Save more with 10 or 20 trip packs
• Go big with term, semester, or annual passes

Must-Have Student Travel Cards

YOzone Card

• Proves your age for discounted fares
• Covers young people's bus tickets
• Apply through the City of York Council

Student Railcards

• 16–25 Railcard: 1/3 off train fares (£30/year)
• 16–17 Saver: 50% off all train travel

Want a full breakdown of which railcard is best for you? Check out our complete guide to UK student railcards for all the details.

There’s an App (or Two) for That

From booking buses to finding the best deals on train tickets, travel apps are your best friend.

Not sure which ones are worth downloading? We’ve rounded up the top apps every student should have in our best UK student discount apps blog, including apps that help you save on travel, food, shopping, and more.

Smart Ways to Save on Transport

Annual Bus Passes

If you're commuting daily, an annual First Bus pass (around £375) can save you serious cash.

Worth it if you travel more than 250 times a year! Track your journeys using the First Bus app to see if it's the right move for you.

Looking to manage your overall student expenses better? Don’t miss our blog on budgeting tips for UK students, it’s packed with advice on how to stretch your student loan further without sacrificing the fun stuff.

Multi-Operator Travel Options

Want flexibility across all bus services in York?

All York Tickets:

• Use any bus service in the city
• Day tickets from £4.42
• Weekly and monthly passes for regular riders

Smart Travel Options:

• York by Bus Smartcard: Load credit, travel on multiple operators
• Mobile tickets: Buy via apps
• Contactless: Tap with your phone or bank card, easy!

Travel Based on Where You Live

Living on Campus (University of York)

• Free U1/U2 buses between Campus East and West
• 15-minute walk between campuses
• Safe cycle paths & 5,000+ bike parking spaces

Wondering if campus living is right for you? Our York student housing guide breaks down your options and what to expect when living on-site.

Living in Private Student Accommodation

Whether you're in Clifton, Tang Hall, Heslington, or the City Centre, York's bus network keeps you connected.

Need help choosing the right neighbourhood? Our blog on the best areas to live in York covers all the top student-friendly locations, including travel times, vibes, and housing types.

Still deciding if living in student accommodation is the right fit? Discover the perks in why live in York accommodation, from location benefits to community living and everything in between.

Commuting from Outside York

From the Yorkshire Region

• East Yorkshire Buses: 20% off with valid student ID
• Connexions Buses: Pay child fare with YOzone card
• Coastliner: Direct service to/from Leeds

Long-Distance Travel

• National Express: Student discount cards available
• Megabus: Book early for cheap seats
• BlaBlaCar: Share rides with fellow students & save

Cycling in York: The Green and Cheap Option

York is one of the UK’s most cycle-friendly cities, and it’s a brilliant way to get around as a student.

Why Cycle?

• Low cost: Just invest in a bike, no daily fares
• Healthy: Squeeze in some exercise between lectures
• Eco-friendly: Zero emissions, minimal footprint
• Fast: Often quicker than buses for short trips

Cycle-Friendly Infrastructure

On Campus (University of York):

• 5,000+ secure bike parking spots
• Cycle routes between East and West Campuses
• Bike racks outside every building

Around the City:

• Protected bike lanes
• Quiet residential routes
• 15-minute cycle from Campus West to the city centre

Bike Security Tips:

• Use a solid D-lock
• Register your bike with university security
• Always park in well-lit areas

Walking Around York: Safe, Scenic & Student-Friendly

Walking is one of the easiest (and most scenic!) ways to get around York, especially if you’re living close to campus or in the city centre.

From Campus to Campus & Beyond:

• Campus East ↔ Campus West: A relaxing 15-minute walk
• Campus ↔ City Centre: Around 30 minutes on foot
• Well-lit paths, security patrols, and scenic surroundings make it a safe option

Living in the City Centre?

• Most student colleges are within walking distance
• Stroll along York’s historic city walls for a unique route
• Main areas are well-lit at night, perfect for evening walks

Smart Walking Safety Tips:

• Stick to main pathways after dark
• Walk with friends late at night whenever possible
• Know where the emergency phones are located on campus

Getting Home After a Night Out: Late-Night Transport in York

York’s got your back when the night goes late, whether you're coming back from society events, parties, or a night out in the city.

Night Buses

UN1 Night Bus

• Runs 7 days a week
• Connects the University campus to the city centre
• Free to use within the campus zone
• Pay a small fare for city centre journeys

Weekend Boost

• Extended services on Fridays and Saturdays
• Buses run regularly until midnight

Pro Tip: Always plan your return journey in advance, especially on weekends!

Taxis: Safe, Reliable and Student-Approved

If you’re not catching a bus, a taxi is your next best option, and it’s easy to split the cost with flatmates or friends.

Key Info:

• Local taxi companies operate 24/7
• Many students use ride-sharing to cut costs
• Book via apps or phone
• Average fare: £8–£12 for city centre trips

Taxi Safety Tips:

• Always use licensed taxi companies
• Share rides with friends when possible
• Keep emergency contacts saved in your phone

Seasonal Transport Changes: What to Expect

During Term Time (Sept – June)

• High-frequency services: Uni buses every 7–8 minutes
• Full college bus routes are operating
• All student discounts and passes are active

Holiday Periods

• Reduced services and timetable changes
• Some routes may be temporarily suspended
• Use the First Bus app to check live updates

Planning Tip: Download holiday timetables early and give yourself extra travel time. Always have a backup route in mind!

Don’t forget, bus and train schedules often change around public holidays too. Check out our UK bank holidays guide for students so you know exactly when to expect disruptions and how to plan ahead like a pro.

Must-Have Travel Apps for York Students

Technology makes getting around even easier, here are the top apps every York student should have:

First Bus App

• Live bus tracking
• Real-time service updates
• Plan routes and buy mobile tickets
• Manage your travel on the go

Google Maps

• Real-time transit info
• Walking & cycling directions
• Full journey planning made easy

Citymapper

• All-in-one transport app for York
• Alerts for bus departures
• Offline maps available for backup

Already got your travel apps sorted? Take your productivity to the next level with our best productivity appsfor study abroad students. From organising your schedule to managing finances and group projects, these tools are game-changers for student life.

Digital Tickets = Less Hassle

Skip the paper tickets and go digital, it’s easier, faster, and smarter.

Why Use Mobile Tickets?

• No cash needed
• Auto-calculates the best fare
• Tracks your journey history
• Easy to top up and manage

How to Set It Up:

1. Download your bus operator’s app (like First Bus)
2. Create your account and verify your student status
3. Add a payment method
4. Turn on notifications for service alerts and offers

Budget Planning for Student Transport in York

Trying to balance your travel needs and your student budget? Here's a simple breakdown to help you plan smarter and save more.

Monthly Transport Budgets (Based on How Often You Travel)

Occasional User (2–3 trips per week)

• Budget: £25–£35/month
• Best option: Pay-as-you-go using student fares

Regular User (Daily travel to uni or work)

• Budget: £45–£60/month
• Best option: Monthly or term-time travel passes

Heavy User (Multiple trips per day)

• Budget: £60–£80/month
• Best option:Annual pass, works out at just £31/month if paid upfront

Curious how transport fits into your overall student spending? Check out our cost of living in York blog for a complete breakdown of what students typically spend on rent, food, transport, and more.

Money-Saving Tips for Students

• Walk when you can, great for short distances and your health
• Use the bus for longer journeys or poor weather days
• Travel off-peak to avoid premium fares
• Share taxis on nights out to split the cost
• Buy seasonal passes early for discounts
• Invest in a bike for a one-time cost and unlimited rides

Want to personalise your budget? Try our cost of living calculator, it helps you estimate monthly expenses based on your lifestyle and location.

And don’t miss our top budgeting apps for UK students, perfect for tracking your spending, setting limits, and making sure you're not blowing your bus fare on takeaways.

Transport Tips for International Students

New to the UK? Here’s how to get started with transport in York:

First Week Checklist

• Apply for your YOzone card (if eligible)
• Download transport apps like First Bus, Google Maps, or Citymapper
• Take a practice trip to campus
• Find the nearest bus stops to your accommodation

Not sure what else you need to get started? Don’t miss our student checklist for moving to the UK, it covers everything from travel prep to accommodation essentials, banking, healthcare, and more.

Documents You’ll Need:

• Your student ID card
• Proof of age for discounts
• A bank card for contactless payments
• Emergency contact info, just in case

UK Bus Etiquette (Yes, We Love Queues)

• Queue patiently at bus stops
• Let others get off the bus before you get on
• Always say “thank you” to the driver when leaving
• Leave priority seats for those who need them

Payment Methods

• Contactless cards preferred
• Exact change needed if paying cash
• Mobile payments accepted on most services
• Student ID often required for discounted fares

Accessible Transport and Support

York is committed to being accessible to all students.

Bus Accessibility:

• All First Bus vehicles are wheelchair accessible
• Newer buses have audio announcements
• Priority seating available
• Some operators offer companion discounts

On Campus:

• Campus transport is fully accessible
• Disabled parking is available
• Alternative arrangements can be made based on need

Need Extra Support?

• Contact your university disability services team
• City of York Council offers transport assistance
• Some students may qualify for special transport funding

Common Transport Issues and How to Handle Them

Delays or Cancellations?

Stay informed:

• Follow @FirstYork on social media
• Use live tracking apps
• Sign up for service alerts
• Always check the operator’s website before big journeys

Tip: Always have a backup route and allow extra time for important travel.

Lost Tickets or Cards?

Digital Tickets:

• Take screenshots for backup
• Store tickets in cloud storage
• Link multiple payment options for safety

Physical Cards:

• Report lost cards ASAP
• Replacements usually available online
• Keep receipts for expensive passes (in case of claims)

Fare Disputes?

Here’s what to do:

1. Always carry your valid student ID
2. Understand fare zones and which discounts apply to your age
3. If there's an issue:
   • Politely speak to the bus driver
   • Note the bus route, time, and vehicle number
   • Contact the bus operator’s customer service
   • Reach out to your student services team for help if needed

The Last Stop: Your Guide to Stress-Free Student Travel in York

Now that you’ve got the lowdown on York’s transport system, you’re ready to navigate the city like a true local. Whether it’s hopping on the U1 or U2 bus to campus, cycling through the city’s beautiful streets, or grabbing a late-night taxi with your friends, York makes getting around simple, affordable, and safe for students.

With all the student discounts, smart apps, and flexible travel options available, you can tailor your transport to fit your lifestyle, whether you’re an occasional traveller or a daily commuter. Plus, knowing your routes and safety tips means you can focus more on enjoying your uni experience and less on stressing about how to get there.

Want to know where to go, what to see, and how to make the most of your time in the city? Don’t miss our York city guide, your go-to for everything from coffee shops and libraries to nightlife and hidden gems.

But here’s the thing, your uni experience isn’t just about getting from A to B. It’s also about where you call home. And having accommodation that’s both comfortable and well-connected makes all the difference in your day-to-day life.

That’s why you should check out Best Student Halls. It’s the easiest way to find student accommodation in York that fits your budget, lifestyle, and transport needs. Whether you want to be close to campus, near major bus routes, or in buzzing student neighbourhoods, Best Student Halls has got you covered with the best options around.

So, if you’re ready to make your student life in York hassle-free, from your morning commute to your perfect place to live, start your search today. Because the right home and the right travel options make all the difference to an amazing university experience.