Overview of the FESX_370 Bus Route

The FESX_370 bus route, operated by First Essex, provides a vital connection between Braintree and Chelmsford, serving several towns and villages in Essex. This route offers a convenient public transport option for commuters, students, and day-trippers alike.

Key features of the FESX_370 route include:

Connects Braintree and Chelmsford
Serves intermediate stops such as Halstead, Little Waltham, Great Leighs, and Marks Tey
Offers variations like the 42B service with slightly different stops and timings

The bus timetable for FESX_370 varies depending on the day of the week:

Weekdays: Frequent departures from Braintree Bus Park (Stand 5), including 0557, 0632, 0703, and 0713
Saturdays: Regular services with departures at 0715, 0825, 0925, and 1025
Sundays and public holidays: Less frequent departures, including 0705, 0805, 1000, and 1200

This comprehensive route provides essential transportation links for residents and visitors in Essex, offering flexibility and convenience for various travel needs.

Key Stops Along the Braintree to Chelmsford Journey

The FESX_370 bus route between Braintree and Chelmsford features several important stops along the way. These stops not only serve as convenient pick-up and drop-off points but also offer access to notable landmarks and attractions in the area.

Notable Landmarks and Attractions

Along the FESX_370 bus route, passengers can enjoy picturesque views and access to local points of interest. Here are some key stops and their nearby attractions:

Braintree Bus Park Stand 1: This is the starting point of the journey. Nearby, you’ll find the Braintree Village outlet shopping centre, perfect for retail therapy before or after your bus ride.
Great Notley, White Court: Located approximately 10-15 minutes from Braintree town centre, this stop is near the Great Notley Country Park. The park offers walking trails, a cycling track, and a unique Sky Ropes adventure course.
Great Leighs, St Annes Castle: This stop serves the village of Great Leighs, known for its historic St Anne’s Castle. The village is also home to Chelmsford City Racecourse, a popular destination for horse racing enthusiasts.
Little Waltham, The White Hart: Situated in the charming village of Little Waltham, this stop is near the picturesque White Hart pub. The village boasts beautiful countryside walks and the 14th-century St Martin’s Church.

These stops not only punctuate the bus timetable but also provide opportunities for passengers to explore the rich history and natural beauty of Essex. Whether you’re commuting or sightseeing, the FESX_370 route offers a convenient way to access these local attractions.

Timetable and Frequency of Service

The FESX_370 bus timetable offers frequent services between Braintree and Chelmsford. We’ve broken down the schedule to help you plan your journey effectively.

Peak Hours vs Off-Peak Hours

During peak hours, typically early mornings and late afternoons, the FESX_370 bus timetable provides more frequent services. From Braintree Bus Park Stand 1, buses depart at shorter intervals, with examples including 0715, 0825, and 0925. Similarly, Chelmsford Bus Station Stand 8 sees multiple departures during these busy periods, such as 0545, 0620, 0645, and 0708.

Off-peak hours maintain regular service with slightly reduced frequency. Mid-morning and mid-afternoon departures are often spaced 30-60 minutes apart, ensuring consistent travel options throughout the day. This balanced timetable caters to various passenger needs, from commuters to leisure travellers.

Weekend and Holiday Schedules

Weekend and holiday schedules for the FESX_370 route differ from weekday timetables. Saturday services typically operate with similar frequency to weekdays, albeit with potential variations in early morning and late evening departures. Sunday and public holiday timetables often feature reduced services, with longer intervals between buses. It’s advisable to check the specific bus timetable for these days to plan your journey accordingly.

Ticket Options and Fares

The FESX_370 bus route offers various ticket options to suit different travel needs. Our flexible fare structure ensures passengers can choose the most cost-effective option for their journey.

Single, Return, and Day Tickets

Single tickets provide a one-way travel option on the FESX_370 route. Return tickets offer better value for those making a round trip on the same day. Day tickets are ideal for passengers planning multiple journeys, allowing unlimited travel on the FESX_370 and other First Essex services within the specified zone for the entire day.

Concessions and Discounts

We offer concessions and discounts for eligible passengers on the FESX_370 route. These include reduced fares for children, students, and seniors. Additionally, group travel discounts are available for families or small groups travelling together. Regular commuters can benefit from weekly, monthly, or annual passes, providing significant savings compared to purchasing daily tickets.

Amenities and Accessibility Features

We’ve ensured that the FESX_370 bus route between Braintree and Chelmsford offers a comfortable and accessible journey for all passengers. Our buses are equipped with modern amenities to enhance your travel experience along this popular route.

On-Board Facilities

Our buses feature:

Free Wi-Fi connectivity
USB charging ports at most seats
Air conditioning for year-round comfort
Clear digital displays showing next stops and estimated arrival times

These amenities make the journey more enjoyable, allowing passengers to stay connected and comfortable throughout their trip.

Accessibility Features

We’re committed to making our services accessible to all. The FESX_370 buses include:

Low-floor entry for easy boarding
Wheelchair spaces with secure fixings
Priority seating for passengers with reduced mobility
Audio and visual next stop announcements

These features ensure that our bus timetable serves everyone, regardless of their mobility needs.

Bicycle Storage

For cyclists looking to combine their journey with public transport, we’ve provided:

Bike racks on the front of buses (subject to availability)
Clear instructions for safely securing bicycles

This facility allows for seamless integration of cycling and bus travel along the Braintree to Chelmsford route.

Environmental Considerations

We’re taking steps to reduce our environmental impact:

Euro 6 compliant engines, reducing emissions
Driver training in eco-friendly driving techniques

These measures contribute to a more sustainable bus service without compromising on reliability or adherence to our timetable.

Connecting Services and Transport Links

The FESX_370 bus route offers convenient connections to other transport services, enhancing accessibility for passengers travelling beyond Braintree and Chelmsford. We’ve compiled essential information about these connecting services to help you plan your journey seamlessly.

Rail Connections

At Braintree, the bus timetable aligns with train departures from Braintree railway station, providing easy access to London Liverpool Street and other destinations on the Braintree Branch Line. In Chelmsford, the bus route terminates near Chelmsford railway station, offering connections to London, Ipswich, and Norwich on the Great Eastern Main Line.

Local Bus Services

The FESX_370 route intersects with several local bus services:

At Braintree Bus Interchange: Connect with routes serving surrounding villages and towns, including Halstead, Sudbury, and Colchester.
In Chelmsford: Transfer to local services covering areas such as Springfield, Great Baddow, and Writtle.

Park and Ride Facilities

Chelmsford’s Park and Ride service connects with the FESX_370 route, offering a convenient option for commuters and shoppers:

Sandon Park and Ride: Located just off the A12
Chelmer Valley Park and Ride: Situated north of the city centre

Cycling Integration

Both Braintree and Chelmsford offer cycle parking facilities near major bus stops, encouraging multi-modal travel:

Braintree Bus Interchange: Secure cycle parking available
Chelmsford Bus Station: Covered cycle racks provided

By utilising these connecting services, passengers can extend their travel options beyond the FESX_370 route, creating efficient and flexible journey plans throughout Essex and beyond.

Tips for a Smooth Journey on the FESX_370

Check the Bus Timetable in Advance

We recommend checking the FESX_370 bus timetable before your journey. First Essex updates timetables regularly, so it’s crucial to verify departure times from Braintree Bus Interchange or other stops along the route. This ensures you don’t miss your bus and helps you plan your day effectively.

Arrive Early at Your Stop

It’s best to arrive at your bus stop at least 5 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Buses can sometimes arrive slightly early, especially during off-peak hours. Being punctual also allows time to signal the driver and board comfortably.

Have Your Payment Ready

To speed up boarding and avoid delays, have your payment method ready. First Essex accepts cash, contactless card payments, and mobile tickets. If you’re a frequent traveller, consider purchasing a weekly or monthly pass for added convenience and cost savings.

Be Aware of Peak Times

The FESX_370 route can get busier during peak commuting hours, typically early mornings and late afternoons. If possible, plan your journey outside these times for a more comfortable ride. Remember, the timetable may offer more frequent services during peak hours to accommodate higher passenger numbers.

Use Real-Time Information

Take advantage of real-time bus tracking services provided by First Essex. These can be accessed via their mobile app or website, giving you up-to-date information on bus locations and expected arrival times. This feature is particularly useful if there are any unexpected delays or changes to the timetable.

Conclusion

We’ve covered everything you need to know about the FESX_370 Braintree to Chelmsford bus service. From timetables and key stops to ticket options and on-board amenities this comprehensive guide ensures you’re well-prepared for your journey. Whether you’re a daily commuter student or day-tripper the FESX_370 offers a convenient and eco-friendly way to travel across Essex. Remember to check schedules in advance take advantage of discounts and enjoy the scenic route. With its frequent services and excellent connections the FESX_370 is your gateway to exploring the best of Braintree Chelmsford and everything in between.