Step to it with Google Maps

Google maps has now found its way right across the UK. With almost 17,000 public transport routes on board, you’d better top up your travelcard

There doesn’t appear to be any imminent arrival of Google buses on our roads (although the doodlers would have a great time adapting the lettering around the wheels). But the latest update of Google Maps brings together information from 1,500 service providers across the UK.

From buses and boats, to trains and trams, just tap in your start and end locations and the upgraded service (also available as an iOS and Android app) will bring up the best route for your A to B, right down to the exact stop for you to alight.

It is all pretty impressive. And there’s more; you can find out departure times, the number of stops and distance you’ll be walking in-between, you can also pick your preferred travel mode and choose to walk less or make fewer changes along the way.

The service has been available in a couple of UK cities for quite a while but pulling together the vast amount of data needed to cover the rest of the almost 17,000 routes now available has taken a little longer.

David Tattersall, product manager for Public Transport in Google Maps, said: “You can now get public transport directions for everything from cross-country trips, to timings for the local village bus, to the St Mawes ferry in Cornwall which will save you a 55-minute journey over land to Falmouth.”

Google public transport map

With the combination of 3D, street view, map or satellite modes and a plethora of on-screen information, even taking a virtual trip from the comfort of your armchair is an interesting adventure (though it’ll leave you woefully short of your 10,000 steps).

Of course, most of us will be using it for actual, real, journeys though. Which means all we need now is that app that makes public transport run on time…

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Sally - Silversurfer's Editor

Mother of three grown-up daughters I am the ultimate multi-tasker and am passionate about my role as Silversurfers Website Editor and Social Media Manager. Always on the lookout for all things that will interest and entertain our community. Fueling fun for the young at heart!

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