This page is devoted to London Transport buses, trams, and trolleybuses up to the withdrawal of the last Routemasters.
There are a few pictures of their replacements, the DM, SMS, etc classes
Welcome to the London Transport Buses webpage, where I take you on a nostalgic journey through the past of the various classes of buses that have shaped the city's public transport history, especially the iconic RT, RF, and Routemaster classes, which I extensively photographed during the 1970s and 1980s.
The RT Series:
Discover the legendary RT series, which became a symbol of London's streets in the mid-20th century. Introduced in the 1930s, the RT buses revolutionized urban transport with their spacious design and reliable service. When the class was introduced, doubts were cast upon their reliability, but the last members of the class were withdrawn in 1978.
The RF Series:
Delve into the fascinating world of the RF series, the single deck buses and coaches that graced London's roads, especially the country area. These single-deck buses were also designed to navigate the narrower streets of suburban areas, including a local folly, the Chislehurst Arch, or the narrow lanes around Totteridge Explore their unique features, including comfortable seating, large windows, and charming exterior styling, which made them a favorite among passengers and drivers alike.
The Routemaster:
No exploration of London's transport heritage would be complete without celebrating the world-famous Routemaster buses. Launched in the 1950s, these double-deckers, with their instantly recognizable design and open rear platform.
Initially replacing trolleybuses, as the RTs did with London's last trams, the Routemaster appeared in coach and London Transport Country Area Green. Perhaps one of the remarkable occurrences which concerned the Long Routemaster coaches, was that the class was purchased back from the National Bus Company, which took over the operation of the Country Area routes in 1970, repainted red and worked routes 279 and 279A.
Historical Insights:
Immerse yourself in the rich history of these iconic buses through an extensive collection of photographs. Some depict the replacement classes, the SMS and DMS.
Whether you are a transportation enthusiast, history buff, or simply curious about the heritage of London's buses, join me on this captivating ride through time as I celebrate the history of London's buses, especially the RT, RF, and RM classes that continue to hold a special place in the heart of London's public transport story.
RT 2130 at Golders Green station.
London Transport country RF at Luton
London trolleybus 1471 at North Finchley
In 1971, following the withdrawal of RTs from my local route, the 125, I decided to cover all RT and RF routes, including photographs, and this collection is the result. Although I have taken some photographs, I was never a fan of their replacements, especially as they provided an inferior service and were being withdrawn before the buses they were supposed to replace.
STL
RT
SRT
RLH
RM
Q
T
RF
GS
