London is known for its iconic red double-decker buses, which have become a symbol of the city. These buses are featured on various merchandise and are a popular tourist attraction. However, like all things, these buses eventually retire.
Many of these retired buses end up at the Transport for London bus scrapyard, owned by Geoff Ripley in Barnsley. The six-acre site is home to various types of buses, including the famous red London buses. These buses are often used for spare parts or eventually scrapped.
YouTube is filled with videos of bus enthusiasts exploring the bus cemetery. One user, Soi Buakhao, shared footage from 1985 showing Routemasters and other buses being dismantled. The video describes how many Routemasters met their fate at the scrapyard, with around 1000 of them being scrapped.
While some bus fans appreciate the recycling of these buses, others are saddened by the loss of these iconic vehicles. Some believe that the Routemasters were well-built and could have been refurbished for a longer lifespan. Despite the fate of many buses in the past, nowadays, more buses are being saved and repurposed for events like weddings or even transformed into homes.
It’s fascinating to see how these retired buses are given a second life after years of service on the bustling streets of London. The history and legacy of these iconic red double-deckers live on in various forms, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of these beloved vehicles.