Chatty Bus
Mark your calendars! The Chatty Bus is hitting the road once again to foster community connections in February, May and October.
The Chatty Bus Experience
At the heart of the Chatty Bus Experience is the opportunity to connect, share stories, and build relationships within a supportive environment. This is made possible by our team of friendly Chatty Bus Champions, easily recognisable by their blue tops, who help to spark conversations and create a welcoming atmosphere.
How We Started
Launched in 2019, this community initiative aimed to combat social isolation and loneliness in Oxford. We then returned last year on the Oxford to Thame route for a one-off event, bringing people together through conversation.
What Happens on Board
Our Chatty Bus Champions are volunteers from the Oxford Bus Group who ride our buses to engage in meaningful conversations and lend an ear to those seeking companionship. In addition to offering a friendly chat, they’ll provide information about local activities and social groups, catering to a wide range of people. And they’ll also share tips on how to best enjoy a day in Oxford before returning home.
In the past, Chatty Buses have featured live poetry, a variety of games, and additional volunteers from partner organisations like Age UK. Each Chatty Bus Experience is different, and we have exciting plans to grow and develop this initiative!
Chatty Bus Events 2026
This year, we plan to transform more bus journeys into “Chatty Buses” with three special events:
Chatty Bus on the X32
Date: 19th February 2026
Time: Stay tuned for updates
Bus route: X32
Reminder: Stay tuned for updates.
Chatty Bus on the park&ride
Date: 14th May 2026
Time: Stay tuned for updates
Bus route: 300
Reminder: Stay tuned for updates.
Chatty Bus on the River Rapids
Date:10th October 2026
Time: Stay tuned for updates
Bus route: X40 River Rapids
Reminder: Stay tuned for updates.
Why We're Doing It
We’re passionate about connecting people, not just places. We know that according to research* one in three people deliberately catch the bus for social interaction. So, we want to do our bit to help people of all ages get connected and it’s why we’re so pleased to be back again this year.
*Survey (October 2018) conducted by ComRes on behalf of Greener Journeys.
How Will It Work?
Use the tracker to follow the bus or look out for the posters in the window. When you board, a Chatty Bus team member will be at the front of the bus.
We’re looking forward to chatting with you!