Football, rugby, concerts and festivals bring huge crowds to Leeds and across Yorkshire, and getting a group there and back is half the battle. A coach takes care of the parking, the queues and the long journey home, but only if the trip is planned properly.
Why choose a coach for a match or event?
For groups of friends, supporters’ clubs, workplaces and community organisations, travelling together has real advantages:
- No one has to stay sober to drive, and nobody has to find parking near a busy venue
- Everyone arrives together, and the group stays together at the end
- The coach can drop you close to the entrance, avoiding long walks from distant car parks
- It costs less per head than taxis or multiple cars, particularly for a full vehicle
On a match day, there is also the atmosphere. A coach full of supporters is half the fun.
How do you plan the timings?
Work backwards from kick off or doors opening, and build in extra time for traffic near the venue. Roads around big stadiums and arenas slow down well before the event starts and stay slow afterwards.
A sensible plan:
- Arrive early. Allow time to get through the crowds and security. Doors usually open well before the main event.
- Agree a set down point. Ask the operator and the venue where coaches can drop off and wait.
- Agree a pick up time and place. Choose a place that is easy to find, and give everyone a clear description and a photo or map.
- Allow for the exit crowds. At a large event, coaches can take a while to leave. Build a buffer in your return timings and tell the group to expect it.
Our advice on naming a group leader is worth following here. One person with the driver’s number and a list of passengers keeps the return on track.
What vehicle suits your group?
It depends on your numbers and the day. Our fleet ranges from coaches to double deckers, and a double decker can be a fantastic choice for a supporters’ trip: lots of seats, plenty of atmosphere, and a view. For smaller groups, a minibus or midi coach is more economical. Ask for options when you enquire, and see how coach hire pricing works so you know what you are comparing.
Can you travel to away games and festivals further afield?
Yes, but longer trips need more planning. Drivers’ hours rules limit how long a driver can be at the wheel and require rest breaks, so a long away trip that finishes late may need a second driver or a different plan. Tell the operator your full timings, including how late you expect to be at the venue, so they can plan properly and quote accurately.
For multi day festivals, ask about drop off and collection at the start and end, and about where the coach can wait or whether it will return for you.
What rules apply on board?
Each operator has its own rules on alcohol, decorations and flags. Many supporters like to decorate the coach, which is fine in most cases, but agree it with the operator beforehand. Remind the group to look after the vehicle and to keep the aisles clear, and make sure everyone understands that seat belts must be worn where fitted.
Do you need a comfort break?
On any trip of more than a couple of hours, yes. Plan a stop for the outward and the return journey. It also gives the driver a legal rest break where needed. Choose a safe, easy to use place and keep the stop short but unhurried.
What if someone in your group needs extra help?
Tell the operator early about wheelchair users or anyone with mobility needs, and ask the venue about accessible entry and drop off. Vehicles have to be allocated in advance, and accessible set down points are often different from the main entrance.
Event transport with Lethers Travel
We are a Leeds based, family run coach company, and we know the roads and venues in our home city well. Whether you are organising an away day, a supporters’ club trip or transport for a festival group, tell us what you need and we will give you a free quote. See our coach hire page, get in touch, or call 0113 824 2411.
