London will see a special event on Sunday 8th February 2026, as a fleet of iconic Routemaster buses take to the streets to commemorate the 70th anniversary of their entry into public service.
Organized by the Routemaster Association, with support from Transport for London (TfL) and London Transport Museum, the event will recreate Route 2, the very route on which the first production Routemaster, RM1, began its passenger service in 1956.
The day will begin with a gathering of RM1 and other buses at the Ace Café at 9:30am. From there, RM1 will lead a convoy to Golders Green Station and follow the historic Route 2 through London, ending at Crystal Palace. Here, members of the public can get a closer look at the vehicles, speak with owners and crews, and take photos of these beautifully preserved buses.
The Routemaster bus is a beloved symbol of London, known worldwide for its innovative design, durability, and contribution to public transport history. Many of the buses participating in the event are privately owned and maintained by enthusiasts who are passionate about preserving this important part of Britain’s transport heritage.
RM1, now cared for by London Transport Museum at its Depot in Acton, is part of the museum’s historic collection documenting London’s journey over the past 200 years.
This event is free to attend, with no tickets or booking required, making it a perfect day out for transport enthusiasts, families, photographers, and anyone interested in London’s history.
Speaking about the event, Routemaster Association Chairman David Lee said, “The Routemaster is more than just a bus, it’s a design icon and a symbol of London itself. Recreating the very first route it operated on, 70 years to the week after RM1 entered service, feels like a fitting and special way to mark this milestone. We’re delighted to welcome the public to join us.”
Matt Brosnan, Head Curator at London Transport Museum, emphasized the significance of RM1 and the anniversary, stating, “We’re delighted that RM1 can take part in this special Routemaster Association convoy marking 70 years since it first entered service. As the very first Routemaster, RM1 is an icon of London’s transport history, and we’re pleased to have recently completed its restoration at our Depot in Acton, where it continues to be carefully maintained by our team. It’s great to join up with the Routemaster Association and Transport for London for the opportunity to see RM1 back out on the road for this anniversary celebration. Members of the public will also be able to enjoy RM1 up close at our upcoming Depot open days in April, where it will be on display as part of our historic vehicle collection.”
The event will not be distributed by Pressat or pressat.co.uk.
