London is a city that is steeped in history, and one of the best ways to experience it is by taking a ride on one of its iconic red buses. The London Bus Route 1 is one such bus route that offers a unique perspective of the city. It runs from Canada Water to Tottenham Court Road, passing through some of London’s most famous landmarks and neighbourhoods.
The History of London Bus Route 1
The London Bus Route 1 is one of the oldest and most iconic bus routes in London, England. The route was first introduced in 1908 and has undergone several changes over the years.
In the beginning, the London Bus Route 1 operated between Victoria Station and Tottenham Court Road via Oxford Street. It was initially operated by the London General Omnibus Company (LGOC), which was the largest bus operator in London at the time.
The early buses on the route were open-topped, double-decker vehicles with solid rubber tires. They were powered by petrol engines and could carry up to 34 passengers. The buses were painted in a bright red livery with gold lettering, which became the iconic colour scheme of London buses.
First World War
During the First World War, the London Bus Route 1 was used to transport troops and munitions to the front lines. Many of the buses were requisitioned for military use, and their drivers were sent to serve in the armed forces.
After the war, the route was extended to reach Highgate and Muswell Hill in north London. In the 1920s, the LGOC was taken over by the London Transport Board (LTB), which introduced new, modern buses to the route.
Second World War
During the Second World War, the London Bus Route 1 played a vital role in the evacuation of children from London to the countryside. The buses were also used to transport troops and supplies during the Blitz.
In the post-war years, the route was extended further to reach Stamford Hill and Leytonstone in east London. In the 1960s, the famous Routemaster buses were introduced to the route, which became a symbol of London transport.
1980’s & Beyond
In the 1980s, the route was cut back to operate only between Tottenham Court Road and Canada Water, following the construction of the Jubilee Line on the London Underground. The route has undergone several other changes since then, but it still remains a popular and important bus route in London.
Today, the London Bus Route 1 is operated by the Go-Ahead Group under contract from Transport for London. The route operates 24 hours a day and runs every 5-8 minutes during peak hours.