Two English tram networks publish very different levels of detail about pushchairs. West Midlands Metro sets out numbered clauses on folding, space and wheelchair priority, while Sheffield Supertram’s conditions contain a single short clause on luggage and pushchairs. This guide summarises both, for tram travel in England, and shows how to plan around them. It complements the site’s comparison of Manchester Metrolink and Edinburgh Trams. Operators update their conditions, so the current version applies on the day of travel.
West Midlands Metro: pushchairs can stay unfolded
West Midlands Metro’s Conditions of Carriage, in the version dated 1 August 2026 that was reviewed, contain the following pushchair provisions:
- Clause 10.2: pushchairs can be wheeled straight on without being folded down, subject to available space.
- Clause 10.4: unfolded pushchairs are permitted when space allows and they do not obstruct gangways or pose a safety risk, and they cannot use the wheelchair spaces if a wheelchair user needs them.
- Clause 10.6: when a wheelchair user wants to board, a customer with a pushchair may respectfully be asked to fold it.
- Clause 12.3: folded pushchairs will be carried subject to available space.
The operator’s FAQ answers the question "Can I travel with a buggy or pram?" with a yes, saying that with 100% low floor accessibility there is plenty of room for buggies and prams onboard. A pram that must stay unfolded is therefore workable on this network in principle, though the space-available wording means it is not guaranteed at busy times.
Wheelchair spaces and priority
Clause 10.3 says two wheelchair spaces are provided, designed for a standard reference wheelchair with a maximum width of 700mm and length of 1200mm. Clause 10.8 says wheelchair users have priority over other customers using the designated bay, and that customers must vacate the bay if a wheelchair user requires it. For pushchair owners this is the practical rule: the wheelchair bay is a convenient place to park a pram, but it has to be given up on request. The legal background to wheelchair priority on buses in Great Britain is explained in the guide to Paulley v FirstGroup.
Luggage and children
Clause 12.2 prohibits individual luggage items, other than suitcases, over 15kg, and clause 12.6 says luggage must not obstruct any gangway or be placed on seats. A pushchair carrying heavy bags therefore needs to keep the walkway clear. Under clause 6.7, up to three children under the age of five can travel free provided they are accompanied by a responsible fare-paying customer or pass holder. The operator’s FAQ adds that passengers aged 16 and over must buy adult tickets unless they hold a valid 16-18 photocard.
Sheffield Supertram: one short clause
Sheffield Supertram’s conditions of carriage, published by Travel South Yorkshire, have a single clause on the subject. Condition 32 says passengers shall ensure that any luggage, pushchair or similar does not obstruct any door or passageway, or cause any inconvenience to other passengers, and that the operator, South Yorkshire Future Trams Limited, will not accept liability for loss or damage to them unless it is caused by its negligence. The page does not set out dimensions, folding requirements or wheelchair space priority, and the version reviewed carried no date.
The result is a duty on the passenger rather than a detailed policy. A pushchair should be parked so that doors and gangways stay clear, and anything left unattended is at the owner’s risk unless negligence by the operator is proved. It is sensible to keep valuables with you and to hold the pushchair by its brake while the tram moves. The site’s guide to pushchair brakes explains how to check them.
Choosing a pushchair for tram travel
- On networks that allow unfolded pushchairs, a narrower frame makes it easier to keep gangways clear.
- On a network where the rules say little, expect the driver or staff to use their judgement on obstruction.
- Have a fold that can be done quickly, in case a wheelchair user boards and you are asked to fold.
- Keep heavy bags in the basket, not hanging from the handles, and read the guide to overloading a pushchair.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to fold my pushchair on West Midlands Metro? Not routinely. Clause 10.2 says it can be wheeled on unfolded, subject to space, but you may be asked to fold it if a wheelchair user boards.
Can I use the wheelchair space for my pram? Only if a wheelchair user does not need it. Clause 10.8 says customers must vacate the bay if a wheelchair user requires it.
Does Sheffield Supertram have a folding rule? The published conditions only require that pushchairs do not obstruct doors or passages or inconvenience other passengers.
The bottom line
West Midlands Metro allows unfolded pushchairs when there is space, with wheelchair users having priority over the bay, while Sheffield Supertram’s conditions only require that pushchairs do not obstruct doors or passageways. Buy a pushchair that folds quickly, keep gangways clear and be ready to move if a wheelchair user boards.