Michael Gaylard Photography

The London Bus Museum traces its origins to the 1970s, when a group of transportation enthusiasts began collecting and preserving historic London buses. The collection grew over the years, and in 1991, the museum opened to the public at its current location in Weybridge, Surrey. The museum was founded with the mission of preserving the history of London’s public transportation and celebrating the iconic status of the London bus.

The history of London’s buses dates back to the early 19th century, when horse-drawn omnibuses first appeared on the streets of the city. These early public transport vehicles were a revolution in urban mobility, allowing Londoners to travel more easily and efficiently across the growing metropolis. The introduction of motor buses in the early 20th century marked another major milestone, as internal combustion engines replaced horse power, leading to faster, more reliable, and more comfortable transportation.

The London Bus Museum’s collection spans this entire history, from the horse-drawn omnibuses of the 1800s to the modern double-deckers that are still in service today. The museum highlights the evolution of bus design, from the early single-deck motor buses to the iconic Routemaster, which became a symbol of London in the 1950s and 1960s. The Routemaster, with its distinctive red color, open platform, and hop-on, hop-off design, is one of the most beloved and recognizable buses in the world.

The museum also celebrates the cultural impact of London’s buses. Buses have played a vital role in the life of the city, shaping its growth, development, and identity. They have been featured in films, literature, and art, and they have become a symbol of London’s resilience and adaptability. The London Bus Museum preserves this rich heritage, ensuring that the story of London’s buses continues to be told and celebrated for future generations.