A NIGHT bus service between Crediton and Exeter launched in May last year to help Saturday-night partygoers get home has been extended until the end of 2026.

The number 5 bus will be operating from midnight until 4am every Saturday night into Sunday morning.

The route starts in Paris Street in Exeter and calls at Duryard Cowley Bridge, Newton St Cyres Crown and Sceptre, Fordton railway station, Crediton Lloyds Bank, Crediton Tuckers Close and vice versa.

Nine other night bus services are also being offered elsewhere in Devon, including Cranbrook for the first time.

They are the number 1 bus between Plymouth and Tavistock via Derriford Hospital and Yelverton; the 1A between Exeter and Cullompton via Broadclyst and Bradninch; the 2 between Plymouth and Saltash via Milehouse; the 4 between Exeter and Cranbrook via Monkerton; the 12 between Torquay and Brixham via Paignton; the 21 between Barnstaple and Bideford via Yelland; the 21B between Barnstaple and Ilfracombe via Braunton; the 22 between St Marychurch and South Devon College via Paignton; and the 57 between Exeter and Exmouth via Topsham.

A service between Exeter and Dawlish has been scrapped due to low passenger numbers.

Funding for the initiative comes from the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.

“Being the main funder of these late-night buses is something I’m really proud of, and I’m delighted to add Cranbrook to the list of communities who now have a safe way to stay out late without worrying about the cost of a taxi or making a bad decision to drive after having a drink,” said PCC Alison Hernandez.

“The buses are helping people to go straight home rather than hanging around on the streets after leaving a venue, which has led to a reduction in anti-social behaviour and violence.

“It’s a win-win for communities and people out in the night-time economy, so helping this to continue for 2026 was a very easy decision for my office to make.”

Temporary Chief Superintendent Antony Hart of Devon and Cornwall Police said: “The night bus service offers people living outside of the city centre an efficient and cost-effective mode of transport home which helps to keep people safe and prevent violence against women and girls.

“Data from night buses operating in other areas across the force area suggests we will also see a drop in drink-driving and antisocial behaviour which will have a positive impact on our communities.”

Devon County Council cabinet member Cllr Jacqi Hodgson (Green, Totnes and Dartington) added: “There are so many benefits to these night buses, from safety to affordability as well as helping people to make changes to their travel habits and reduce their carbon footprint.

“We are pleased to be among the partners helping to make these services possible.”

Single tickets cost £3. If you make multiple journeys after 7pm, you can buy a Stagecoach Niterider ticket for £4.50.

You can find the night bus timetables online by visiting: stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/south-west/night-buses.