Great news for visitors and locals alike – a brand-new bus route linking Whitchurch, Market Drayton, the Princess Royal Hospital and Wellington is now running.
The service, which will be operated by D&G Buses, has been introduced following a contract award by Shropshire Council and is funded through the Government’s Bus Service Improvement Fund for 2025/26. It has been a long-awaited addition to the area’s transport network, providing a much-needed connection between these towns and essential services.
What the new service offers visitors
The new route, numbered 340, makes it easier than ever for visitors to travel between Market Drayton and neighbouring towns, as well as access key locations including:
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Princess Royal Hospital
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Telford College
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Wellington and Whitchurch railway stations
This is especially welcome for visitors who want to explore Market Drayton without needing a car, or who are travelling from nearby towns by train.
Timetable and key times
The 340 will run Monday to Saturday, with the following first departures:
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From Whitchurch: 7.05am (via Market Drayton to Wellington)
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From Wellington: 7.10am (to Market Drayton and Whitchurch)
The last bus leaves both Wellington and Whitchurch at 6.40pm.
“It’s great to be able to announce a new bus service…”
Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for transport and economic growth, Rob Wilson, welcomed the new service:
“It’s great to be able to announce a new bus service. I’m very happy to say that we we’ve awarded the contract for this new service to D&G following a competitive tender process, and that the service will begin on January 5.
“We know that this service is something that people want and need – particularly as it will include a stop at the Princess Royal Hospital, and at Telford College. Of course, it will also make it easier for people from Whitchurch to visit Market Drayton, and vice versa, and for people from Wellington to visit both of these towns.
“I’m confident this service will prove popular and hope people will make good use of it.”
“We are delighted to have the opportunity…”
Kevin Crawford, area operations manager at D&G Buses, said:
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to work in partnership with Shropshire Council to provide the brand-new local bus service 340 from January 5 linking Whitchurch, Market Drayton, the Princess Royal Hospital, and Wellington bus station connecting rural communities and enhancing access to essential services on Monday to Saturday following a recent tender round.
“For Market Drayton residents this service will also offer a connection to train services from either Whitchurch or Wellington, as well as bus connections into Telford town centre meeting requests from Market Drayton residents.”
How visitors can use the new 340 service
Whether you’re planning a day out in Market Drayton or arriving by train, the new bus route offers a simple and convenient way to reach the town without a car. It also makes it easy to travel onwards to Wellington or Whitchurch for shopping, dining or exploring nearby attractions.
What Market Drayton offers visitors
Market Drayton is a charming market town with a strong heritage, known for its gingerbread history, independent shops, cosy cafés and beautiful canal walks. The new bus service makes it easier than ever to enjoy all that the town has to offer.
Want a printed timetable?
If you’d prefer a physical copy, there are still timetables available at Market Drayton Town Hall reception.
