Doe – BRITAINS BEST TIMETABLES 1989

Description

The author runs the Bus & Coach Council’s Directories Service, compiling and updating timetables from virtually every UK operator and public authority so members gain free publicity and editors can include comprehensive bus information from a single source. This service supplies material for the National Trust Handbook, YHA hostels and a Bus/Rail Guide for British Rail covering over 1,000 routes. The author obtains timetables even from non-participating operators via contacts and claims to be the country’s sole clearing-house for bus schedules. With a background teaching mathematics, he argues that conventional timetables and maps are understandable and that 24‑hour time is not inherently confusing. He criticises “easy‑read” formats that omit intermediate times and warns against needless redesigns that confuse multi‑timetable users. He recommends choosing between dated books or frequently updated leaflets according to need, and sets out five criteria for good timetables: conventional layout, place index, system maps, local maps/route details, and enquiry/ticket information. He notes many publishers fail to meet these standards and names several exemplary authorities and operators.