Vintage buses offer free rides on historic 106 route
A heritage day celebrates 45 years of Stagecoach at Ash Grove garage with a special service.
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The London Bus Museum is organising a special heritage day on Saturday, October 3, where residents can experience a free journey on vintage buses. The service will run between 10am and 5pm on the 106 route, connecting Finsbury Park in north London with Ash Grove bus garage in Hackney, east London.
Celebrating Stagecoach and historic routes
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This event marks 45 years of Stagecoach operating from the Ash Grove garage. It coincides with an open day at the garage, which will include behind-the-scenes tours with admission fees supporting Macmillan Cancer Support. The 106 route itself has a long history, with its origins dating back to the late 19th century when horse-drawn omnibuses were in use.
Buses operating on the heritage service will span models from the 1950s to the 1970s. This includes the iconic Routemaster, which entered service in the late 1950s and 1960s, and its predecessor, the RT-type bus from the 1950s. Conductors will be present on the buses.
Accessibility and vehicle limitations
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While the event aims to offer a trip back in time, the vintage vehicles have limitations compared to modern transport. The buses are not equipped with modern low-floor access. Due to the design of the vehicles, including space constraints under stairs, wheelchairs cannot be accommodated on this special service. The museum stated that conductors will assist passengers with mobility challenges and families with young children where possible. Well-behaved dogs on leads are permitted on board, provided they do not sit on the seats.
The evolution of the 106 route
The 106 route has seen numerous changes since its inception. Initially, it ran from Colney Hatch Lane through Muswell Hill and Archway. Over the decades, it has been renumbered and extended, serving areas such as Clapton Pond and Hackney. In 1912, horse power was replaced by motor buses, and the route was renumbered as 106 in 1914. Further expansions occurred in the 1920s, reaching Barking and Becontree. By 1971, the route was withdrawn east of Blackwall Tunnel. In 2001, the 106 was converted to double-decker buses. Stagecoach London currently operates the route, primarily with single-deckers, from Ash Grove.
Questions this report answers
+When and where can I ride the vintage buses?
The free vintage bus service will run on Saturday, October 3, between 10am and 5pm. The route covers the historic 106 line, operating between Finsbury Park and Ash Grove bus garage in Hackney.
+What kind of buses will be running?
The heritage service will feature buses from the 1950s to the 1970s. This includes iconic models like the Routemaster and its predecessor, the RT-type bus, offering a glimpse into past public transport.
+Is the vintage bus service accessible for everyone?
Unfortunately, the vintage vehicles used for the event are not equipped for wheelchair users due to their design. Modern buggies may also have difficulty fitting. Conductors will offer assistance to passengers with mobility needs where possible.
+What is the significance of this event?
The event celebrates 45 years of Stagecoach operating from the Ash Grove garage and coincides with the garage's open day. It also highlights the long history of the 106 bus route, which dates back to the late 19th century.
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