London buses are a brilliant and affordable way to see the city’s iconic landmarks. With your Visitor Oyster card, a single ride costs just £1.75, making this a budget-friendly way to explore. We’ve curated three fantastic bus routes that cover many of the city’s must-see attractions.
Route 24: A Journey Through History and Culture
Hop aboard the Route 24 at Victoria Station and get ready for a delightful journey through time. You’ll first encounter the Westminster Cathedral and the magnificent Westminster Abbey, two architectural wonders that represent London’s rich history.
The bus continues down Whitehall and passes Downing Street, the Prime Minister’s residence. Soon, you’ll arrive at the vibrant Trafalgar Square – a hub of activity where you can admire Nelson’s Column and the iconic lion statues.
As you continue, you’ll pass through London’s historic theatre district, known for its numerous theaters. Denmark Street, also known as Tin Pan Alley, is renowned for its music shops and is a must-visit for music lovers.
The Route 24 ventures further into London’s vibrant music scene, taking you to Camden Town. Known for its eclectic street markets, you can find everything from vintage fashion and books to antiques, delicious street food, and souvenirs.
Finally, the route concludes at Hampstead Heath, a sprawling green space that offers a tranquil escape from the city bustle. Ascend the hill for stunning views of London – a perfect ending to your sightseeing tour on a sunny day.
Route 11: A Blend of History, Culture, and Modernity
The Route 11 takes you through a mix of London’s past and present. You’ll start by passing the luxurious King’s Road in Chelsea and the chic streets of Belgravia, before reaching historic landmarks such as Westminster Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament.
Next, the bus ascends Whitehall and makes its way to Trafalgar Square. Continuing along the historic Strand, you’ll pass the Royal Courts of Justice before turning onto Fleet Street, which leads you to the City, London’s financial district.
Look out for the disused Strand tube station on your way – closed in 1994, this station has appeared in numerous films and TV shows such as Atonement, 28 Days Later, and Sherlock.
The magnificent St Paul’s Cathedral greets you as you enter the City. Other historical landmarks include the Royal Exchange, the Bank of England – the world’s second-oldest central bank, and Mansion House – the London Mayor’s official residence.
The Route 11 ends its journey at Liverpool Street station, a bustling hub for commuters and tourists. Nearby attractions include Spitalfields market, the famous Brick Lane, and trendy Shoreditch, each filled with vibrant coffee shops, street art, and street food stalls.
Route 9: A Glimpse of London’s Affluence
The Route 9 is one of London’s oldest and “richest” bus routes, passing through some of the city’s most affluent areas.
The journey starts at Aldwych, near the Somerset House, a cultural hub. The bus travels along the Strand to Trafalgar Square, then down Piccadilly, where you can see Green Park and the world-famous Ritz Hotel.
The route continues through Knightsbridge, home to the luxurious department store Harrods, a must-visit for discerning shoppers. You’ll then pass the Royal Albert Hall and Kensington Gardens, where Kensington Palace, once the home of Diana, Princess of Wales, is located just a short walk away.
Next, the bus reaches Kensington High Street, a popular shopping street offering a quieter alternative to Oxford Street. Just before it ends in Hammersmith, the route passes the beautiful Holland Park. This charming park, with its Japanese garden, tennis courts, and peacocks, offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Tips for Riding London Buses
London has hundreds of bus routes, and most bus stops display a map of all the routes that stop there. Remember that you can only board buses from designated bus stops.
The Transport for London website offers downloadable bus maps grouped by area, which are linked to nearby tube stations. You can also use their journey planner to find your way around by bus – simply select ‘bus only’ as your mode of transport.
The three bus routes we’ve highlighted use new Routemaster buses, offering a comfortable and enjoyable ride as you explore the city.
