Analysis of rural mobility across Northern England: Summary Analytical Report

What is it?
This report looks at how people travel in rural areas across the North. It uses TfN’s analytical framework to bring together data on costs, access, distance and travel behaviour, giving a clear picture of rural travel patterns.

How is it useful?
It helps combined authorities and partners understand the challenges people face in rural areas. Use it to identify where transport and digital improvements are needed, support more inclusive planning and build stronger, evidence‑based funding cases.

Key findings

• As of 2025, Rural households spend more on transport, with higher costs affecting access
• Travel is car‑dependent, with around 90% of trips by private car

• People travel longer distances to reach jobs and services

• Limited public transport, EV infrastructure and digital connectivity create barriers