If you are looking for a journey that perfectly captures the dramatic transition from industrial heritage to wild, untamed moorland, the D&G Bus Route 18 corridor is it. Connecting Hanley—the beating heart of Stoke-on-Trent—with the spa town elegance of Buxton, this route is more than just a commute; it is a cross-section of Staffordshire’s most diverse landscapes.
Whether you are a local looking to escape the city for a pint in the highest village in Britain, or a visitor wanting to explore the Peak District without a car, this bus route offers a front-row seat to one of England’s most beautiful climbs.
What makes this route special
The true magic of Route 18 lies in its gradient. You start amidst the busy streets of Hanley, surrounded by the history of The Potteries. But within minutes, the urban grey gives way to the suburban green of Sneyd Green and Baddesley Green, before the horizon opens up completely.
As the bus climbs towards Leek, the “Queen of the Moorlands,” the views become panoramic. The journey culminates in a spectacular run over the high moors, skirting the famous Roaches and passing through the rugged beauty of Flash and Blackshaw Moor, before descending into the Georgian grandeur of Buxton. It is a route that offers culture, shopping, hiking, and history, all for the price of a bus ticket.
Route breakdown: A journey in two halves
The journey can be broadly divided into two distinct scenic chapters, with the market town of Leek serving as the perfect intermission.
Chapter 1: The Potteries to the Moorlands
Departing from Hanley, the bus heads north through Sneyd Green. Keep an eye out as you pass through Stockton Brook and Endon; here, the Caldon Canal often runs parallel to the route, offering glimpses of colourful narrowboats and leafy towpaths.
As you climb Ladderedge, the views back towards Stoke-on-Trent are impressive, but the real treat lies ahead. The bus drops you into Leek, a bustling market town famous for its antique shops and Victorian architecture. It is the vital hub of this journey and a destination in its own right.
Chapter 2: Into the wild peaks
From Leek, the route (often continuing as the 108) transforms into a true scenic adventure. The bus powers up the A53, passing Blackshaw Moor and the dramatic gritstone edges of Upper Hulme, home to the famous “Roaches.” The landscape here is rugged and heather-clad.
You will pass near Flash, recognised as the highest village in Great Britain. The air is crisper here, and the stone walls frame vast, rolling vistas. Finally, the bus winds through Ladmanlow and Burbage before arriving at the majestic Buxton Market Place, where the thermal baths and Opera House await.
Frequency:
- Hanley to Leek (Route 18): These services run regularly throughout the day, typically every hour.
- Leek to Buxton: Connections are available from Leek bus station.
- Sunday Service: Services run on Sundays but with a reduced frequency, so always check the latest timetable before travelling.
Travel tip: While some services may run through, passengers often need to change buses at Leek Bus Station to continue the journey to Buxton (usually connecting onto Route 108). The connection is generally designed to be convenient, and the same-day ticket is valid on both buses.
Planning a day out on this route
- Morning: Start in Hanley with a quick coffee near the Cultural Quarter, then hop on the bus to Leek.
- Lunch: Spend a couple of hours in Leek. Browse the antique stores, visit the mesmerising All Saints Church, or grab lunch in one of the many independent cafes around the cobbled market square.
- Afternoon: Catch the connection towards Buxton. For walkers, alight at Upper Hulme for a hike along The Roaches to see the mythical “Winking Man” rock formation.
- Late Afternoon: Continue to Buxton. Treat yourself to a spring water refill at St Ann’s Well and a walk through the Pavilion Gardens before catching the bus or train back.
Year-round appeal
While the summer months bring purple heather to the moors and bustling markets to the towns, this route is equally atmospheric in winter. The bus offers a warm, safe vantage point to view the snow-dusted peaks of Flash and Longsdon. Just remember that in bad weather, the high road to Buxton can be exposed, so checking service updates is essential during snowy conditions.
