July 02 2026
The Confederation of Passenger Transport has awarded its coveted Coach Friendly status to the town of Bideford for the second time, recognising its continued commitment to providing excellent facilities and a warm welcome for coach operators and passengers.
The North Devon town was first awarded the accreditation in 2019. Following the expiry of the previous award, a new inspection took place in May 2026 to assess whether Bideford continued to meet the required standards.
CPT’s Coaching Manager, Andy Shaw, visited Bideford to review the town’s coach facilities and assess its suitability as a coach-friendly destination. The criteria include good pick-up and drop-off points, appropriate facilities for drivers, clear directional signage for coaches, consideration for mobility-impaired passengers, and a named local representative available to help resolve any issues.
Bideford is a popular destination for coach groups visiting North Devon, with attractions including The Big Sheep and The Milky Way Adventure Park, as well as access to Lundy Island, which can be reached by day trip from Bideford port.
Welcoming the re-accreditation, Councillor Bob Hicks, Lead Member for Economy and Estates at Torridge District Council, said: “I am delighted that Bideford has received CPT Coach Friendly Status. This is great news for the town and the surrounding area. This accreditation should help boost the local economy, while also promoting Bideford as an accessible location. We look forward to welcoming many new visitors to the area as a result.”
Andy Shaw, CPT Coaching Manager said: “With its beautiful North Devon surroundings and strong maritime history, Bideford continues to show itself to be a fantastic destination for coach tourism. This re-accreditation demonstrates that coach travellers can be confident of a warm welcome when visiting Bideford, and we’re delighted to award Bideford Coach Friendly status once again.”
Coach tourism plays a significant role in supporting local economies across the UK. Coaches generate 450 million journeys a year in Britain, equivalent to 40% of all journeys taken by rail. A KPMG study for CPT found that coach passengers spend £8.3 billion annually in local economies, including £3.5 billion from day trippers, £1.9 billion from domestic overnight visitors and £600 million from international tourists.
CPT’s Coach Friendly accreditation helps towns, cities and visitor destinations demonstrate that they understand the needs of coach operators and passengers, making it easier for groups to visit and supporting local businesses in the process.