Pulhams is set to launch a new bus service linking Cheltenham, Witney and Oxford city centre later this month.
The new X52 route will begin operating on Sunday 29 March and will run approximately every two hours from Monday to Saturday, with two return journeys on Sundays until an enhanced summer timetable is introduced in May.
The service replaces the former S2 route, previously operated by Stagecoach, after the contract was put out to tender and awarded to Pulhams.
Faster link between Witney and Oxford
Pulhams said the new timetable has been designed to offer a faster journey time between Witney and Oxford, with the route serving a mix of commuter and longer-distance passengers travelling between Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire.
Communities served by the X52 will include:
- Cheltenham
- Andoversford
- Northleach
- Burford
- Witney
- Eynsham
- Oxford
For west Oxfordshire passengers in particular, the route maintains an important direct link into Oxford while also providing access towards Cheltenham.
First and last journeys
From Monday to Friday, the first bus will leave Cheltenham Royal Well Bus Station at 6.27am, arriving at Gloucester Green Bus Station in Oxford at 8.35am.
At weekends and on public holidays, the first departure from Cheltenham will be at 6.47am, arriving in Oxford at 8.40am.
A full timetable is available on the Pulhams website.
A familiar route returns under a new name
The service also marks a return of a long-established coach and bus link.
Before 2020, the route operated as the 853 service by Swanbrook Transport. Swanbrook was later acquired by Pulhams in November 2024, making the new X52 something of a full-circle moment for the operator.
Operator says route is important for commuters
Luke Marion, Managing Director of Pulhams, said the company was pleased to have secured the contract.
He said: “We’re pleased to have been awarded the tender and to be able to maintain this important link between Cheltenham, Witney and Oxford.
“This is a key commuter route used by many and we have adjusted the service to provide a faster time between Witney and Oxford, providing passengers with an efficient and reliable service.
“We look forward to welcoming new customers to our network as we continue to expand and grow.”
Growth for Pulhams
The launch comes during a period of expansion for Pulhams.
The operator recently announced an £8.17 million investment in 15 electric buses, along with depot improvements including 16 electric charging points.
That follows a £1.5 million investment in five new executive coaches last year for tours, day trips and private hire.
Since being acquired by the Go-Ahead Group in June 2023, Pulhams says it has added more than 60 vehicles to its fleet and recruited more than 60 new staff.
The company has also launched community initiatives including a Chatty Bus scheme aimed at tackling loneliness and an arrangement offering free travel to volunteer puppy raisers working with Guide Dogs.
Founded in 1880, Pulhams began by transporting passengers and goods by horse and cart and now operates bus, coach and school transport services across the Cotswolds and surrounding areas.
At a glance
| Detail | Information |
| Service | X52 |
| Operator | Pulhams |
| Starts | Sunday 29 March 2026 |
| Route | Cheltenham – Witney – Oxford |
| Frequency | About every two hours Monday to Saturday |
| Sunday service | Two return journeys until enhanced summer timetable in May |
For full timetable details, visit the Pulhams website.
