27/10/2019
Embarking on a journey along Thanet's breathtaking coastline aboard the open-top bus is an experience not to be missed. This popular service, officially known as Route 69, offers a unique perspective of the stunning Kentish scenery, from the Viking Ship in Ramsgate, through the charming towns of Broadstairs and Margate, all the way to the picturesque Blue Flag beach at Minnis Bay. For 2025, the service is extending its reach, promising even more opportunities to soak up the sun and the sea air. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about purchasing tickets, understanding the fares, and making the most of your open-top bus adventure.
The Thanet Open Top Bus is scheduled to run every weekend, bank holiday, and during school holidays from Saturday, July 19th, 2025, until Sunday, September 21st, 2025. This provides a generous window for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the coastal route. To make your travel even more appealing, new and attractive fares have been introduced, offering flexibility and value for money.
### Understanding Your Ticket Options
Stagecoach, the operator of the Thanet Open Top Bus, offers a variety of ticket types to suit different travel needs. It's crucial to choose the right ticket to ensure you can enjoy the full benefits of the service, including the popular 'hop on, hop off' facility.
#### Thanet Open Top DayRider
This is the most straightforward option for those planning to spend their day exploring the Thanet coastline exclusively on the open-top bus. For £6 for an adult and £4.50 for anyone under 19, you get unlimited travel on the dedicated Thanet Open Top route. The key advantage here is the 'hop on, hop off' feature, allowing you to disembark at any designated stop, explore the area, and then catch a later bus to continue your journey. This flexibility is perfect for those who want to linger at a particular spot or explore multiple attractions.
#### Thanet Open Top & South East DayRider
If your plans extend beyond the Thanet Open Top route, this ticket offers greater versatility. Priced at £10 for adults and £7.50 for under 19s, this ticket provides all-day unlimited travel on the Thanet Open Top bus, including the 'hop on, hop off' facility. Crucially, it also grants you unlimited travel on all other Stagecoach buses operating within the wider South East region, which encompasses Kent and East Sussex. This is an excellent option if you intend to combine your coastal bus journey with other local travel or explore further afield within the region.
#### Thanet Open Top Group DayRider
Travelling with family or friends? The Thanet Open Top Group DayRider is a fantastic value option. For just £16.50, a group of up to five people can enjoy unlimited travel on the Thanet Open Top route, complete with the 'hop on, hop off' privilege, for an entire day. This makes it a very cost-effective way for groups to experience the scenic route together.
#### Single Tickets
For those who might only need a one-way journey or are not planning multiple stops, single tickets are available. An adult single ticket costs £3, and a child's single ticket is £2.30. It is important to note that single tickets are for one-way travel only and do not include the 'hop on, hop off' facility. If you plan on using the 'hop on, hop off' feature, a DayRider ticket is a more suitable and economical choice.
#### Important Exclusions and Conditions
It's vital to be aware of certain exclusions and conditions associated with these tickets:
* Kid for a Quid: The popular 'Kid for a Quid' offer is not eligible on this specific Thanet Open Top bus service. Ensure you purchase the correct fare for children.
* Concessionary Passes: Holders of valid concessionary passes can use the Thanet Open Top bus. These passes are accepted during standard operating times, which are between 09:30 and 23:00 from Monday to Friday, and all day on weekends and bank holidays. Please ensure your pass is valid for the day of travel.
* Non-Accepted Tickets: Be aware that several other Stagecoach ticket types are not accepted on the Thanet Open Top bus. These include the Thanet DayRider, Thanet MegaRider, South East MegaRider, South East DayRider, and discovery tickets. Always double-check which tickets are valid for your intended journey to avoid any issues.
* Top Deck Policy: For safety reasons, children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by a responsible adult if they wish to sit on the top deck of the bus. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all passengers.
### Route Information and Stops
The extended Route 69 offers a comprehensive journey along the coast. From Saturday, July 19th, the service will operate every weekend, bank holiday, and school holiday until September 21st. While the provided information highlights key reference points, it's important to know that there are numerous stops along the route, especially when travelling between Cliffsend and Minnis Bay, where the route may deviate slightly from the immediate coastline.
The stated reference stops include:
* Dumpton Gap
* Granville Theatre
* Ramsgate Harbour
* West Cliff, Boating P
For a complete and detailed list of all stops, including those on the less coastal sections of the journey, passengers are strongly advised to consult the journey planner section of the Stagecoach Bus App. This app is an invaluable tool for planning your trip, checking real-time departures, and navigating the route effectively.
### Making the Most of Your Journey
To truly maximise your experience on the Thanet Open Top Bus, consider these tips:
* Check the Schedule: While the service runs on weekends and holidays, always confirm the exact operating dates and times for your planned travel day. The Stagecoach Bus App is the best resource for this.
* Book in Advance (if possible): While not explicitly stated for this service, for popular attractions or peak travel times, booking tickets in advance can sometimes save time. However, for dayrider tickets, they are typically purchased on the day.
* Dress Appropriately: Being an open-top bus, the weather can play a significant role. Even on warm days, a breeze can make it feel cooler, especially on the upper deck. Consider bringing a light jacket or a scarf.
### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
To further assist you, here are some common questions:
Q1: How do I buy a ticket for the Thanet Open Top Bus?
A1: Tickets can typically be purchased directly from the bus driver, or through the Stagecoach Bus App. Dayrider and group tickets offer great value for unlimited travel.
Q2: Can I use my concessionary bus pass?
A2: Yes, valid concessionary passes are accepted during the specified times (09:30-23:00 Mon-Fri, all day weekends/bank holidays).
Q3: Does the bus go to Minnis Bay?
A3: Yes, from July 19th, 2025, the service is extended to Minnis Bay.
Q4: Is the 'hop on, hop off' facility included with all tickets?
A4: No, the 'hop on, hop off' facility is only included with the Thanet Open Top DayRider, Thanet Open Top & South East DayRider, and Thanet Open Top Group DayRider tickets. Single tickets do not include this feature.
Q5: Are there any age restrictions for the top deck?
A5: Yes, children under 15 must be accompanied by a responsible adult to sit on the top deck.
Q6: Which tickets are NOT valid on this service?
A6: Thanet DayRider, Thanet MegaRider, South East MegaRider, South East DayRider, and discovery tickets are not accepted.
The Thanet Open Top Bus provides a delightful way to explore the Kent coast in 2025. With a range of ticket options to suit every traveller and an extended route to Minnis Bay, there's never been a better time to experience the sea breeze and stunning vistas from the top deck. Remember to check the Stagecoach Bus App for the most up-to-date information on routes, times, and any service updates. Enjoy your journey!
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