Frequently Asked Questions about The Red Bus

How much does The Red Bus cost? 
Please outline your requirements on the booking form, and we will give you a price.

Is it really a proper old London bus?
Yes, our three Routemasters all worked in London for at least 25 years each!

Does it look the same as in your photos? 
It's even better in reality!  Call us to arrange to view in person.

How many people can you take? 
Each bus takes a maximum of 64 passengers. 

Where can you go?
We will check out your specific destination requests, so please get in touch. We cover an area within about 30 miles of our base in Edinburgh. Unfortunately Glasgow is out of our range as well as parts of the Borders.

How do I know if the venue is accessible?
If there is any doubt about low bridges or branches or narrow roads etc we will check out the venue and let you know as soon as possible. If you need dimensions, the buses are 14ft 6ins high and 8ft wide.

Can you serve drinks on board? 
Yes – if you supply the drinks in advance, we chill them at our base and our conductor helps serve them from a wicker hamper at a suitable stop or before we set off. There is an extra charge for this, which also covers disposal of empties.

Are there any added costs?
There is no VAT to pay on the price quoted. For weddings the price includes: bunches of fresh flowers on all the interior poles, a bunch on the front tied with a big white ribbon, WEDDING BUS sign changing to JUST MARRIED, or one of our local destinations, plus a personalised sign for the destination box on the side which we send to you afterwards.

Do you serve afternoon teas/burgers?

We are not connected in any way to Red Bus Bistro. It is a separate company.

 

Do you have a door for the back?
Part of the Routemaster's unique experience is the open platform at the back with the step and pole. There is no door but this area is kept safe for passengers by our conductor, who remains on board throughout. This is a great spot for the photos when stationary!

Do you have wheelchair access?
Unfortunately not. The platform was not designed for this access and it is still in its original condition. The conductor and driver will provide all assistance requested for helping passengers on board, including stowing a folded wheelchair when possible.

Where can the bus pick us up from?
We can pick up your party from multiple stops arranged in advance. This is fun for the party as each new group joins, and easy for guests as they can choose the easiest place for them. We can come to residential addresses and always try our hardest to arrange to collect the bride/groom from their own home if requested.

Can we bring children on board?
Yes, children love coming on the Red Bus. Safety is ensured by the conductor.

Can we play music onboard?
Yes. We can connect your iPod or phone etc into our portable speakers for your playlist for the journey if you let us know in advance. We have also had live music on board, from fiddle to bagpipes and a small jazz band.

Can you get married on the bus?
Yes, many couples have taken their vows onboard, with the bus parked somewhere spectacular or significant.

Do you do prom transport for primary and secondary school leavers?
We regret The Red Bus does not take on prom hires because of the open platform entrance.

Do you do tours of Edinburgh?
All our drivers know Edinburgh very well. We can take you on a tour of the city with or without commentary. We can arrange a Blue Badge guide in most languages at their hourly rate.