This page is intended to answer important and common questions about the minibus services we offer. If there is something not covered here that you would like to know, please get in touch, or to see our full booking T&Cs, please click below.
FAQs
All your questions answered
What is the best way to contact Lancaster Minibuses?
We are often out and about on jobs, so usually the best method of contact is via email or through Facebook. These accounts are checked regularly by several staff, and we always aim to provide a quick response. If you prefer the personal touch you can of course always give us a call on 01524 928 205 our office hours are 9am – 6pm Monday to Saturday. If we’re not available to answer, please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
How many passengers can you take?
We have 8-16 seater minibuses, so can carry up to 16 passengers with no luggage, or fewer with luggage. We can also offer a trailer service to allow for extra luggage, meaning more space for people on the bus. If you have more than 16 people in your group, we can use 2 vehicles to accommodate your journey requirements and your quote will be tailored to reflect this.
Do you offer self-drive minibus hire?
No, this is not currently a service we provide. Let us take the stress out of your trip for you; who would want to be designated driver anyway!
Do I need to pay a deposit?
Yes, we require a 20% deposit to secure your booking within 7 days of us sending a confirmation email. The easiest way to pay is via a bank transfer (you will find our details in your confirmation email), or alternatively, you can pay via PayPal, debit or credit card over the phone, or by special request we can collect cash.
When do I need to pay the remaining balance by?
You may pay the remaining balance at any time before your journey begins by any of the methods mentioned above. Alternatively, you can pay the remaining balance to the driver in cash before the journey commences.
Why does my confirmation email mention ‘RedRaw Travel’? Is this a different company?
No, RedRaw is our other more adventurous alter ego. Lancaster Minibuses is a trading name of RedRaw Travel Ltd and all bookings go through the same booking system. Lancaster Minibuses is to RedRaw as Clarke Kent is to Superman!
Do I need to ring/email to confirm my booking the day before my journey?
No, if you have paid your deposit you only need to contact us if your booking has changed. You should receive a final confirmation of your journey via email from us 48 hours before your journey.
Can I change my booking after I have paid my deposit?
We try to be as flexible as possible for any changes you need to make to your booking; however this is at our discretion. Please contact us as early as possible to increase the chances of us being able to accommodate your changes. We pride ourselves on our high standard of customer service, and are always happy to help where we can!
How does it work with pick-ups and drop-offs?
The guide price includes two pick-up and two drop-off points in the same area. If you require extra stops we can customise your quote to include these, at often little or no extra cost, however, we must know in advance. This helps us to plan our route and timings yo ensure there is no conflict with other bookings. We operate a fair pricing policy towards additional stops, and will only charge enough to cover the additional time and fuel on the journey.
Why are your prices cheaper than many other companies?
We are a smaller, local company with low overheads, and our prices reflect this. Whilst not totally brand new, our buses are modern, clean, reliable and comfortable. We care about our customers, and want you to return, so we always charge a fair price.
Can we drink alcohol on your minibuses?
Yes, of course. We even have a Bluetooth sound system which you can hook your own music up to; our buses are the perfect way to get your party started. We simply ask that you respect the driver and try not to leave too much mess for the next passengers.
Can we leave belongings on the minibus?
Usually you will be picked up by the same driver/bus that dropped you off, so feel free to leave your belongings on board but please do confirm this with your driver before the journey. The decision is totally at your driver’s discretion, however, we take no responsibility for anything you do leave, and strongly advise against leaving valuables.
Do you have wheelchair access?
Currently our buses don’t have wheelchair facilities, although this is something we are hoping to add in the future.
Do you offer tours or multi-day trips?
We are able to accommodate a variety of requests, simply contact us directly and we can put together a bespoke package for you. We offer illumination tours, sightseeing trips, as well as a whole range of adventure tours through our sister company RedRaw. To see what we can offer check out www.redrawtravel.com