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AECs in service

This page is intended to provide a register of where you can find, and travel on, AEC buses and coaches in service today.  You can help by sending any information you have on AECs in service.  If you like AEC buses, don't forget to add this page to your favourites and check it regularly.  Hopefully there will be new information added frequently.

The list is in two parts. Firstly a list of AECs which are with operators who run public services, including the service details so you can check the travel opportunities. Secondly a summary of AECs (mainly Reliance coaches) in use with smaller operators for contracts and private hire.

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Last updated: 26th January 2012

AECs in public service

Place Reg Type Notes
Cumbria
Kirkby Stephen
JTB 749
UTC 672
Regal III
Regent III
Cumbria Classic Coaces have been running 1948 Burlingham bodied Regal III JTB 749 on service 569 from Kirkby Stephen to Hawes and on private hire jobs since 2003. The ex Bamber Bridge Motor Services Regent joined the fleet from private preservation in 2009. Anyone is welcome to visit the depot to look at the buses or join us on our routes. For more information visit www.cumbriaclassiccoaches.co.uk. Updated September 2009.
Devon
Buckfastleigh
VDV 818
ALD 872B
OD 7497
KOD 585
Regent V
Routemaster
Regent
Regent III
VDV 818, a 1957 AEC Regent V 470 in Devon General colours is operated in the summer months on a circular tour around Buckfastleigh, Devon, based on the South Devon Railway. It shares these duties with Scania powered Routemaster RM1872 which is owned by the railway trust, and other heritage buses and coaches belonging to Ron Greet Nostalgic Transport - which include 1934 AEC Regent OD 7497 and 1949 Regent III KOD 585. A timetable and days of operation can be found at the SDR website. Updated October 2011.
Essex
Colchester
JJD 535D Routemaster Used by Talisman Coach Lines as a poor weather substitute on the Colchester City Sightseeing open top tour. June 2009.
Gloucestershire
Gloucester
SMK 657F Routemaster Stagecoach owned 12657 (RML2657) is running out of the Gloucester depot of Cheltenham & Gloucester. Details of its workings are awaited with interest. June 2007.
Hampshire
Portsmouth
793 UXA Routemaster Local Haunts are running RM994 on their guided tour of Portsmouth and Southsea, once a day on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday (including August Bank Holiday Monday) throughout the Summer from 20th April until the 29th September 2011. It is also available for private hire. Updated March 2011.
Hertfordshire
Knebworth
MXX 419 Regal IV RF442 is used to shuttle visitors on a 2 mile circular route, from Fort Knebworth to the house and Barns Restaurant area. It carries at least 20,000 visitors a year at week-ends and bank holidays during the season, Easter through to late September. Well worth a visit. Updated May 2003.
Kent
Dartford
CUV 322C
Routemaster
RML2322 joined the fleet of Redroute Buses in summer 2005 and makes occasional special appearances on the company's routes in the Dartford area. The company also regularly work rail/tube replacement services. Updated October 2010.

London
TfL tourist route 9

204 CLT
218 CLT
280 CLT
562 CLT
627 DYE
640 DYE
735 DYE
776 DYE
ALD 913B

Routemasters

Marshall refurbished RMs 1204, 1218, 1280, 1562, 1627, 1640, 1735, 1776, 1913 are operated by First London on tourist service 9 from Royal Albert Hall to Trafalgar Square until 1830 Monday to Sunday daytimes. They have Cummins engines and are owned by TfL. RM1562 is unique in having a Cummins ISBE engine rather than the B series fitted to the other Marshall/Cummins conversions.
RM1650 (SRM3) and RML2735 of First's special operations fleet (see below) sometimes make guest appearances. Updated September 2011.

London
TfL tourist route 15
RM871 outside St. Pauls Cathedral in April 2009
WLT 324
WLT 652
WLT 871
ALD 933B
ALD 941B
ALD 968B
ALM 50B
ALM 60B
ALM 71B
ALM 89B
Routemasters Marshall refurbished RMs 324, 652, 871, 1933, 1941, 1968, 2050, 2060, 2071, 2089 are operated by East London on tourist service 15 from Trafalgar Square to Tower Hill until 1830 Monday to Sunday daytimes.They have Cummins engines and are owned by TfL. RM1933 was painted in maroon and platinum commemorative livery in 2008, to celebrate 75 years of London Transport and the centenary of Bow garage. Some, including RM1968 and RM2060, have been painted in 1980s style livery with white band and roundel. Updated September 2011.
Norfolk
Holt
CUV 151C Routemaster RM2151, owned by Awaydays, is used on the "Holt Flyer" between Holt Station (of the North Norfolk Railway) and Holt town centre. Updated April 2011.
Northumberland
Alnwick
JJD 528D
SMK 732F
Routemaster
Routemaster
Dreadnought Buses of Alnwick, operator of summer vintage bus services around the Northumberland coast, is using RML2732 on stage carriage work, private hire and the newly started “Tyne Idols” tour of Newcastle Upon Tyne. It retains its original London livery. RML2528 is also owned and more are expected. Updated July 2010.
Northern Ireland
Belfast
JJD 560D Routemaster RML2560 is used by Allen's Tours on the Belfast City Tour on cold or rainy days. An open-top bus (not a Routemaster) is used on other days.
Scotland
Edinburgh

JSJ 729 (1)
VLT 163 (2)
VLT 235 (3)
JSJ 746 (4)
JSJ 747 (5)
JSJ 748 (6)
VLT 143 (7)
VLT 237 (8)
VLT 242 (9)
VLT 281 (10)
CUV 241C (11)
CUV 248C (12)
CUV 203C (18)

Open top Routemasters

13 open-top or part open-top Routemasters are in the fleet of Lothian Transport owned Mac Tours.

In use are numbers 1-10, ex Original London Tour extended length open top Routemasters, ex ERM94, ERM163, ERM235, ERM90, ERM84, ERM80, ERM143, ERM237, ERM242, ERM281; and part open top RCL2241 (11), RCL2248 (12) and RM2203 (18). RCL2241 and 2248 were originally Greenline coaches with platform doors. Updated June 2011.

Scotland
Hamilton area
VMP 10G Reliance bus WJC Buses of Chapelhall sometimes use this preserved Reliance/Alexander bus on services linked to Hamilton Academy, and have repainted it in their livery. More details of this fascinating vehicle can be found on the Preservation page. Updated October 2008.
Sussex
Brighton and Sheffield Park
CUV 317C Routemaster Scania engined Routemaster RML2317, now owned by Brighton & Hove and repainted into Tilling red livery, runs on Bluebell Railway service 472 Brighton - Sheffield Park on Sundays and some Saturdays during the summer. Timetable and days of operation are at http://www.bluebell-railway.com/event/vintage-bus-472/. Updated April 2011.
Sussex
Kingscote and Sheffield Park
NLE 882 Regent III The Bluebell Railway bought RT3775 from Ensignbus during 2007 for use alongside their steam train services. However it is not mentioned on their website so may not be running at present. Updated April 2011.
Yorkshire
York
MFF 578
792 UXA
Open and closed top Routemasters York Pullman are running ex-RM329 (MFF 578) and open-top RM787(792 UXA) on a tour of York. UXA was acquired in 2007 from Quantock of Somerset. Updated October 2007.
Yorkshire
Scarborough
ALM 65B Open top Routemaster East Yorkshire 812 (ex RM2065) runs on the Bowls Green - Promenade open-top service in high summer (end of July to end of August), alongside a Bristol VR, and ran again in 2011. Updated September 2011.

AECs in contract and private hire fleets

Operator and location Reg Type Status Date of last rep. Notes
Dick, Slough, Berkshire CUV 327C Routemaster (RML2327)
acquired 9/2011 Acquired ex RML Travel. Intended use unknown.
London Bus Bristol, Bristol XVS 830 (VLT 180) Routemaster (RM180) in service 12/2007 For wedding and private hires (one of the Marshall rebuilds)
AlphaBus, Milton Keynes, Bucks KXW 495
CUV 106C
SMK 666F
SMK 700F
SMK 711F
MXX 481
Regent III (RT1396)
Routemaster (RM2106)
Routemaster (RML2666)
Routemaster (RML2700)
Routemaster (RML2711)
Regal IV (RF504)
in service
in service
in service
in service
in service
in service
2/2009
2/2009
2/2009
11/2008
7/2009
11/2011
Available for wedding and private hires. Also used at running days. RML2700 is ex Memory Lane. RT1396, RML2711 and RF504 were bought from preservation.
Carousel Buses, High Wycombe, Bucks CUV 198C
WLT 896
Routemaster (RM2198)
Routemaster (RML896)
in service
in service
10/2011
10/2011
The two RMs are for private hires and special events.
Also owned is unlicensed AEC Regent RT981 (CSL 498 ex JXN 9) and preserved RT2553 (LYF 278).
Daves Buses, High Wycombe, Bucks 448 UXS (ex WLT 848) Routemaster (RM848) in service 11/2011 For wedding and private hires.
ThisBus.com, Haddenham, Bucks
RML2261 passes Windsor castle during a running day in May  2009
840 DYE
CUV 261C
CUV 278C
CUV 335C
JJD 394D
JJD 408D
NML 634E

Routemaster (RM1840)
Routemaster (RML2261)
Routemaster (RML2278)
Routemaster (RML2335)
Routemaster (RML2394)
Routemaster (RML2408)
Routemaster (RML2634)

in service
in service
acquired
under preparation
in service
in service
in service

11/2011
11/2011
12/2011
12/2011
11/2011
11/2011
11
/2011

For wedding and private hires. Also used at running days. RML2278 and RML2335 were acquired from preservation in 2011. A Leyland Titan is also owned.
A1bus.co.uk, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire KVS 601
CUV 213C
Routemaster (RML471)
Routemaster (RML2213)
in service
in service
7/2011
7/2011
Wedding and private hire vehicles
Regency Road Tours, Northwich, Cheshire EUU 117J Reliance/Plaxton in service 6/2011 Used for European tours. will run a 29-day tour to Scandinavia in 2011 and to the Russian States in 2012.
Routemaster Buses, Crewe, Cheshire 490 CLT
ALM 59B
JJD 418D
JJD 513D
Routemaster (RMC1490)
Routemaster (RM2059)
Routemaster (RML2418)
Routemaster (RML2515)
in service
in service
in service
in service
10/2008
10/2008
10/2008
10/2008
Wedding and private hire vehicles
King Harry Coaches (Falmouth Coaches), Falmouth, Cornwall AFJ 77B
KGH 230G

Reliance/Harrington
Reliance/Plaxton
in service (semi preserved)
in service (semi preserved)
11/2010
11/2010

For private hire use.

Western Greyhound, Newquay, Cornwall 783 DYE
62 CLT
NMY 648E
MLL 528 (ex MLL 589)
Routemaster OT (RM1783)
Routemaster (RM1062)
Routemaster (RMA11)
Regal IV (RF141)
for special events
for special events
for special events
preserved/special evants
7/2010
7/2010
8/2008
6/2011
All in heritage fleet for special events, which include some running days on Newquay services. Greenline Regal RF141 was reregistered some time in the past and is officially preserved but available for special events. Preserved RML2737 is also owned.
Bowmans Coaches, Carlisle, Cumbria JVY 516
YEW 380T
Regal III/Barnaby
Reliance/Plaxton
in service
in service

1/2011
1/2011

JVY for weddings, private hire
YEW for mainly school contracts
Midland Classic Coaches, Church Gresley, Derbyshire 798 UXA (168 CLT)
Routemaster (RM1168)
in service
8/2008
Used for wedding hires and tours.
Route 24 Buses, Bournemouth, Dorset VLT 24 Routemaster (RM24) in service for private hire and weddings 1/2008 Still AEC engined and in original condition
Shaftesbury & District, Shaftesbury, Dorset 654 DYE
KGJ 403D
OLD 564
MXX 398
Routemaster (RM1654)
Routemaster (RMA29)
Regent III (RT4777)
Regal IV (RF421)
in service for private hire
in service for private hire
in service for private hire
in service for private hire

6/2008
7/2011
7/2011
7/2011

RMA29 is numbered RME1 by S&D. All in service for private hire and weddings.
Blueline Travel, Southend, Essex Unidentified Routemaster (unidentified) in service for wedding hire 11/2010 A Routemaster is owned for wedding hire

Ensignbus, Purfleet,
Essex
RT3232 at Brentwood ona special service in April 2009



DLU 92
FXT183

JXC 194
JXC 432
KGK 758
KYY 961
NXP 775
MXX 261
VLT 25
LDS 279A (VLT 54)
WLT 371
WLT 882
VYJ 808 (361 CLT)
485 CLT
CUV 220C
CUV 226C
JJD 405D
NMY 634E
FPT 590C
MLL 952

Regent O661 (STL2093)
Regent III (RT8)
Regent III (RT1431)
Regent III (RT624)
Regent III (RT1499)
Regent III (RT3232)
Regent III (RT4421)
Regent III low height (RLH61)
Routemaster (RM25)
Routemaster (RM54)
Routemaster open-top (371)
Routemaster (RML882)
Routemaster (RM1361)
Routemaster (RMC1485)
Routemaster (RCL2220)
Routemaster (RCL2226)
Routemaster (RML2405)
Routemaster (RMA50)
Routemaster
Regal IV (RF315)

preserved
preserved/special duties
preserved/special duties
preserved/special duties
preserved/special duties
preserved/special duties
preserved/special duties
preserved/special duties
heritage fleet
private hire
preserved/special duties
heritage fleet
heritage fleet
heritage fleet
heritage fleet
heritage fleet
private hire
heritage fleet
heritage fleet
preserved/special duties

4/2009
8/2011
8/2011
4/2009
8/2011
4/2009
4/2009
8/2011
2/2011
8/2011
8/2011
11/2009
12/2009
12/2009
8/2011
7/2006
5/2008
12/2009
6/2010
4/2010

Prewar RT8 (FXT 183) was restored to PSV status in 2010. Cravens bodied RT1499 is in green livery. RT1431 also has a Cravens body. The ex Memory Lane RF has returned to use in country green. The STL was acquired from the Cobham Bus Museum in 2009.

RMC1485, RMA50 and open-top RM371 are three of seven former Lothian Buses (Mac Tours) Routemasters which were bought in 2009.
Ex Northern General Routemaster FPT 590C was bought from preservation for the heritage fleet.
RM1361 is privately owned and operated on loan by Ensign.
RM54 was the last RM to run on route 159 and has a low-emission LEZ compliant engine so is the regular private hire RM.
Updated September 2011.

Imperial, Rainham,
Essex
RM1641 on service 339 at Epping station
JXC 149
641 DYE
254 CLT
CUV 239C
WLT 884
VFV 907R
Regent III (RT786)
Routemaster (RM1641)
Routemaster (RMF1254)
Routemaster (RCL2239)
Routemaster (RML884)
Reliance/Plaxton
wedding/private hire
wedding/private hire
wedding/private hire
wedding/private hire
stored out of service
stored out of service
1/2008
1/2008
1/2008
1/2008
5/2008
5/2008
Also owned are RT lookalike Leyland PD2s RTL1256 and RTW KXW 435


Ex TWH (Hunn)
London Heritage Travel, Collier Row, Essex ALM 989B
CUV 299C
JJD 411D
JJD 588D
SMK 714F
Routemaster (RML1989)
Routemaster (RML2299)
Routemaster (RML2411)
Routemaster (RML2558)
Routemaster (RML2714)
wedding/private hire
wedding/private hire
wedding/private hire
wedding/private hire
wedding/private hire

12/2011
8/2010
8/2010
8/2010
8/2010


replacement for RMC1462
named Judith
named Danielle
named Trudy
Talisman, Great Bromley, Essex JJD 535D Routemaster (RML2535) in service 10/2007 special duties
Layer Marney Transport, Layer Marney, Essex JJD 398D Routemaster (RML2398) acquired 10/2007 use unknown
Stagecoach Cheltenham & Gloucester, Gloucs NML 659E Routemaster (RML2659) in service 10/2007 Heritage vehicle, occasionally works contract/special services
Warners Bus and Coach, Gloucs WLT 713 (SMK 721F) Routemaster (RML2721) in service for private hire 7/2009 Info from proprietor. To hire telephone 01684 292108.
Mervyns, Innersdown, Hampshire AOW 383 Regal/Harrington coach acquired 12/2009 Built 1937. Intended use unknown.
Xelabus, Eastleigh, Hampshire SMK 679F Routemaster (RML2679) in service 1/2012 Private hire
Routemaster Hire, Knebworth, Hertfordshire JJD 374D
JJD 390D
JJD 548D
Routemaster (RML2374)
Routemaster (RML2390)
Routemaster (RML2548)
in service
in service
in service
12/2011
12/2011
12/2011
For weddings and private hire. RML2374/2390 acquired from First Devon & Cornwall.
Sullivan, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire/London 215 UXJ (WLT 889)
69 CLT
CUV 272C
JJD 428D

Routemaster (RML889)
Routemaster (RM1069)
Routemaster (RML2272)
Routemaster (RML2428)

in service
in service (LT red livery)
in service (1980s livery)
in service (Lincoln green)

8/2010
8/2010
8/2010
8/2010

In the heritage fleet for promotional work and hires. A Regent (RT1107) is also owned but not in service. RMC1487 and RML2429 were owned but withdrawn in 2011.
Autocar, Five Oak Green, Kent 123 CLT
ALM 11B
EAS 543 (WLT 752)
Routemaster (RM1123)
Routemaster (RM2011)
Routemaster open-top (RM752)
in service
in service
in service
4/2010
7/2010
4/2011
For private hire, and also appear at running days.
Gilkes, West Kingsdown, Kent WKG 287
LCX 159W
Reliance/Willowbook bus
Reliance/Plaxton
acquired
acquired
1/2005
12/2004
bought from Quantock
Go-coach Hire, Swanley, Kent SMK 699F Routemaster (RML2699) in service 1/2010 sometimes runs on the company's service 420 to Bluewater
Redroute Buses, Northfleet, Kent 255 UXO (WLT 888)
799 DYE
JJD 402D
Routemaster (RML888)
Routemaster (RM1799)
Routemaster (RML2402)
acquired
acquired
acquired
10/2006
7/2009
11/2007
acquired from Arriva London
acquired ex preservation
acquired ex Blue Triangle
Routemaster Travel South, Gillingham, Kent

WLT 898
WLT 357

Routemaster (RML898)
Routemaster (RM357)
in service for private hire
in service for private hire
6/2008
6/2008

ex Blue Triangle
ex Watford & District
both retain AEC engines

Travelmasters, Sheerness, Kent SMK 725F Routemaster (RML2725) acquired 6/2009 ex Bath Bus Company
London Bus Company Ltd (London Truck and Bus)
Kent/London
RT3062 at Gt. Warley village in April 2009

RMC4 at Great Warley village in August 2011

JXC 77
KGU 235
KGK 938
KXW 171
KYY 527
KYY 957
LLU 670
LYF 247
LYR 854
NXP 778
OLD 559
OLD 768
MXX 289
SLT 59
VLT 268
VLT 298
462 CLT
254 UXO (ex WLT 897)
215 UXJ (ex WLT 899)
WLT 900
WTS 418A (WLT 909)
371 CLT
620 DYE
ALD 989B
CUV 260C
NML 621E
SMK 729F
NMY 631E
HKL 836

Regent III (RT714)
Regent III (RT961)
Regent III (RT2129)
Regent III (RT3062)
Regent III (RT1700)
Regent III (RT3228)
Regent III (RT3871)
Regent III (RT4188)
Regent III open-top (RT3435)
Regent III (RT4424)
Regent III (RT4772)
Regent III (RT4548)
Regal IV (RF401)
Routemaster (RMC4)
Routemaster (RM268)
Routemaster open-top (RM298)
Routemaster (RMC1462)
Routemaster (RM897)
Routemaster (RM899)
Routemaster (RM900)
Routemaster (RM909)
Routemaster (RM1371)
Routemaster (RM1620)
Routemaster (RM1989)
Routemaster (RCL2260)
Routemaster open-top (2621)
Routemaster open-top (2729)
Routemaster (RMA48)
Regal open-top
acquired
acquired
acquired
preserved/special duties
preserved/special duties
preserved/special duties
preserved/special duties
acquired
wedding/private hire
acquired
acquired
acquired
wedding/private hire
preserved/special duties
preserved/special duties
wedding/private hire
acquired
private hire
preserved/special duties
wedding/private hire
acquired
acquired
acquired
acquired
preserved/special duties
preserved/special duties
preserved/special duties
preserved/special duties
wedding/special duties
5/2010
5/2010
5/2010
4/2009
7/2008
4/2009
4/2009
5/2010
8/2011
5/2010
5/2010
5/2010
12/2009
8/2011
7/2008
7/2008
5/1010
12/2009
7/2008
7/2008
2/2011
5/2010
5/2010
7/2010
10/2009
4/2010
1/2010
7/2008
8/2011

Seven more RTs joined the fleet in 2010 from Abegweit Tours, Prince Edward Island, Canada - increasing the operational fleet from 6 to 13. Two RMs came from the same source.
All operational vehicles are generally confined to special duties and running days, and also appear regularly at rallies.
RM298 (VLT 298), RM900 (WLT 900), open top RT3435 (LYR 854), Regal HKL 836 and Leyland Titan KGK 575 (which looks like an RT) form the Private Hire / Wedding fleet. RM897 is in a pink advertising livery. RMC4 is the prototype Routemaster coach.
They can also be seen at film set locations, often in the Blackfriars area.

Three preserved AEC Swifts are also owned, along with preserved RTs 1320 (KLB 569), 1389 (KXW 488), 2799 (LYR 969), 2911(MLL 658), 3198/3238 (KYY 967 ex KYY 927), 3933 (LLU 372) and tree lopper STL1470 (CXX 457). RTs 1240 (KGK 709), 1658 (KXW 304), 4823 (OLD 587) are used for spares. Preserved Routemasters are RML893 (WLT 893), RML902 (WLT 902), RM1009 (9 CLT), RM1936 (ALD 936B) and RML2649 (NML 649E). Routemasters RM85 (711 XUW ex VLT 85), RM111 (111 CLT), RM646 (WLT 646), RM1979 (ALD 979B) and RML2413 (JJD 413D) are in stock but not operational or officially preserved. Two more RTLs (Leyland Titans) came from Canada in 2010.
Updated September 2011.

Marshopper, New Romney, Kent JJD 532D Routemaster in service for private hire use and hire to other operators

12/2009


Old London Bus, Kent/London NLE 918
KYY 872
Regent III (RT3028)
Regent III (RT3413)
Both acquired for preservation and public service 6/2008
Classic Bus North West, Blackpool. Lancashire BNK 524A (564 CLT)
583 CLT
CUV 290C
SMK 734F
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster
unlicensed
in service
in service
in service
1/2011
1/2011
1/2011
1/2011
CBNW now operate three Routemasters on mostly Wedding Hire and Private Hire. Blackpool liverie RM1583 is being prepared for service in 2011.
Morecambe Heritage Bus, Morecombe, Lancashire KTF 591 Regent III open-top in service for heritage/p.h. work 8/2011 Ex Morecambe & Heysham RT style Regent, recently returned to service for scenic tours and private hire - worked a service in Morecambe in summer 2011.
South Lancs Travel, Leigh, Lancashire WWN 191
MMY 991C
Reliance/Harrington Cav.
Reliance/Harrington Gren.
both being prepared for heritage p.h. work
2007
2007
new Neath & Cardiff
new to Valliant
both still shown in fleetlist Nov 2007 but were for sale by auction in August 2007
Confidence Bus Company, Leicester WLT 655 Routemaster in service 6/2003 For schools and works contracts
Wilby, Hibaldstow, Lincolnshire

LCB 603G
SNM 77R
REK 925R
KBW 322S

Reliance/Plaxton
Reliance/Plaxton
Reliance/Duple
Reliance/Duple
withdrawn
withdrawn
withdrawn
withdrawn
4/2007
4/2007
4/2007
4/2007
were in service at the time of transfer of Wilby's operations from East Yorkshire in May 2006, but now out of use and reported derelict at Wressle

Dodd, Belton, Lincolnshire

AUA 435J Reliance/Plaxton in service 12/2001
Arriva London, London
RM6 at the Alton rally in August 2009

VLT 5
VLT 6
VYJ 806 (124 CLT)
CUV 217C
453 CLT
464 CLT
WLT 901
CUV 355C
CUV 360C

Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster

for special events
for special events
for special events
for special events
for special events
for special events
for special events
awaiting restoration
exhibition bus
5/2010
10/2009
10/2009
10/2009
10/2009
5/2010
10/2009
10/2009
10/2009
RMs 5, 6, 1124, 2217, RMC 1453/64 and RMLs 901, 2355 and 2360 are in the Arriva London heritage fleet. RM2217 ran the official "last Routemaster" journey on the 159. They often appear at rallies: RMC1453 and RML2360 are pictured at the Alton rally in July 2007, RM6 at Alton in 2009.
First London, London
First London special events vehicle RM1650 frequently appears at at running days in the SRM3 identity it carried during the 1977 Queen's silver jubilee.
510 CLT
650 DYE
SMK 735F
Routemaster open-top
Routemaster
Routemaster
for special events
for special events
for special events
5/2011
5/2010
5/2010
Open-top RMC1510, silver SRM3 (RM1650) and RML2735 are in the First London special operations fleet. They often visit rallies: SRM3 was pictured at the Slough/Windsor running day in May 2007 and RML2735 was at the same event in 2010.
International Coachlines, Thornton Heath, London VLT 259
SMK 710F
Routemaster (RM259)
Routemaster (RML2710)
in service
in service
10/2009
3/2007
For private hires and occasional use on school contracts
London Central and London General, London VLT 9
WLT 516 (CUV 283C)
CUV 305C
NML 604E
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster
for special events
for special events
for special events
for special events
9/2008
6/2010
8/2010
7/2010
RM9, DRM2516 (ex RML2283). RML2305 and RML2604 are in the commercial fleet for special events. WLT 516 is the former RML2283 with the platform doors and registration number from DRM2516 (ex RML2516, JJD 516D - now scrapped) and now carries that number.
London United, London WLT 880 Routemaster (RML880) for private hire 7/2006 The first RML, still known as ER880 and now in red following a spell in special livery.
Metroline, London

WLT 903
513 CLT

Routemaster (RM903)
Routemaster (RMC1513)
for special events
for special events
10/2010
4/2008
Both retain AEC engines and original tungsten lights and appear at rallies as well as special events
redroutemaster.com, London CUV 366C
NMY 655E
462 CLT
Routemaster (RML2366)
Routemaster (RMA58)
Routemaster (RMC1462)
in service
in service
in service
12/2011
12/2011
12/2011
In service for private hire and film work. RMA58 is a former BEA model that previously ran with Ensignbus. The RMC is on loan from a preservationist.
Traditional Travel, Bromley, London JJD 483D Routemaster (RML2483) in service 1/2012 For wedding and private hire
Timebus Travel,
London/St. Albans

MXX 223
MXX 468
WLT 450
WSJ 737 (WLT 479)
ALD 871B
KGD 612D
CUV 263C
CUV 310C
JJD 389D
JJD 404D
JJD 442D
JJD 527D
OYM 453A (VLT 29)
477 CLT
NMY 646E

Regent, ex RLH23
Regal IV, ex RF491
Routemaster (open-top)
Routemaster (open-top)
Routemaster (SRM7)
Routemaster (ex BEA RMA37)
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster
Routemaster (RM29)
Routemaster coach (RMC1477)
Routemater (ex BEA RMA9)
in service
in service
in service
in service
in service (silver)
in service
in service
in service
in service
in store
acquired
in service
in service
in service (red)
acquired

10/2008
10/2008
10/2008
10/2008
10/2008
10/2008
7/2006
7/2006
8/2007
7/2006
2/2008
7/2006
8/2007
10/2008
4/2009

All in service vehicles are available for private hire. RMA46 (numbered RMA9 here) is acquired from Mac Tours via Ensignbus.
Also owned is former RLH44 last used as a uniform store, RLH29 (undergoing rebuild), RLH32 and RLH48 (preserved and rallied), Routemaster coach RCL2221 (available for hire as a static vehicle), and a Leyland PS1, JXC 282 (TD89).
ACE Travel, Bootle, Merseyside 240 AJB
254 UXO (WLT 897)
Regent V/Park Royal
Routemaster (RML897)
on loan from preservation
for special events
5/2008
5/2008
for special use as heritage vehicles
Aintree Coachline, Liverpool, Merseyside HKF 151 (289 CLT) Routemaster (RM1289) status unknown 2/2011 RM1289 was in service on local routes with Aintree Coachline, but may be out of use. A second RM has been sold.
Fleetcar, Liverpool, Merseyside SVS 618 Routemaster (RM548) in service 10/2011 for private hire and advertising work
A Route 2 Hire, Northamptonshire 403 CLT
CUV 271C
Routemaster (open-top)
Routemaster (RM2271)
in service
in service
12/2011
12/2011
RM1403 returned to service by its preservation owner, and RM2271 recently bought from preservation to join it.
The Wedding Bus!
Northamptonshire
VLT 188
WLT 882
Routemaster (RM188)
Routemaster (ER882)
in service
in service
9/2008
9/2008
both for weddings and private hire
Chain Bridge Honey Farm, Berwick upon Tweed, Northumberland JJD 416D
JJD 554D
Routemaster (RML2416)
Routemaster (RML2554)
in service
in service
9/2008
9/2008
both for private hire in the Northumberland and Scottish Lowlands areas
Wright Travel, Newark, Nottinghamshire SVS 618 (WLT 548) Routemaster (RM548) acquired 9/2007
Exclusive Cars, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire ALM 33B
VLT 108
SSL 806 (VLT 121)
NMY 637R
Routemaster (RM2033)
Routemaster (RM108)
Routemaster (RM121)
Routemaster (RMA52)
in service
in service
in service
in service
11/2011
11/2011
11/2011
11/2011
all are available for wedding and corporate hire in the Nottingham area, RMA52 is a forward entrance ex BEA model
Thompson, Retford, Nottinghamshire NML 616E Routemaster (RML2616) acquired 3/2010 will be used for wedding and corporate work following refurbishment
Nostagia Travel, North Hinksey, Oxon JJD 430D Routemaster (RML2430) in service 6/2011 for wedding and private hire, often seen in Oxford
Hutt, Finstock, Oxon CUV 266C Routemaster (RML2266) acquired 5/2009 intended use unknown
Anderson, Langholm, Scotland 112 VMX (LME 413P) Reliance/Plaxton in service 4/2004
Kiwi Luxury, Newton Stewart, Scotland DKY 866V Reliance/Plaxton probably gone 4/2004
McCalls Coaches, Lockerbie, Scotland VPY 589 (WNP 444V) Reliance/Van Hool (rebody?) in service 4/2004 similar VFY 770 (EGS171T) scrapped in 2006
Shuttle Buses, Kilwinning, Scotland 875 YYA (DCH 359T) Reliance/Plaxton in service 5/2010 for school contract to Stewarton Academy
Stagecoach, Perth, Scotland EDS 50A Routemaster in service - private hire and heritage services 4/2009 Now repainted in Alexander livery. For hire, contact Allan Condie, Stagecoach Vintage Fleet Co-ordinator on 01738 446200.
The Red Bus, Lothian, Scotland WLT 875
353 CLT
Routemaster (RM875)
Routemaster (RM1353)
in service
in service
5/2011
5/2011
For wedding and private hire in Edinburgh and Dunfermline areas.
WJC Buses, Hamilton, Scotland VMP 10G Reliance/Alexander bus in service/preserved 10/2008 Sometimes used on contracts including Hamilton - Strathaven Academy, and painted in WJC livery. More details of this fascinating vehicle can be found on the Preservation page.
Wilson, Gourock, Scotland JJD 432D
SMK 697F
HSL 660
Routemaster (RML2432)
Routemaster (RML2697)
Routemaster open-top(RML890)
in service - private/wedding hire and occasional service use 10/2010 Open-top CUV 358C(ex RM2358) was destroyed by fire. The Glasgow sighseeing tour is no longer operated.
Bath Bus, Bath, Somerset SMK 665F Routemaster (RML2665) in service (City Sightseeing tour) 2/2011 Bath Bus company also run the Cardiff City Sightseeing tour, where RM1978 is based
Big Red Bus, Milborne Port, Somerset NMY 662E
NMY 665E
Routemaster
Routemaster
acquired
acquired
4/2006
4/2006
acquired from Shaftesbury & District
Crosville Motor Services, Weston Super Mare, Somerset ALD 977B Routemaster (RM1977) in service 7/2011 part of vintage private hire fleet
Quantock Motor Services, Wiveliscombe, Somerset ACH 441
JFM 575
Regal/Windhover
Regal/ECW
in service
in service
3/2007
5/2007
wedding hires etc.
wedding hires etc.
Nippy Bus, Yeovil, Somerset VLT 191 Routemaster (RM191) in service 1/2011 for private hires and weddings
David Coaches, Pontycymmer, South Wales YPL 64T Reliance/Duple in service 7/2001 ex Leisurelink in 2001
Hollinshead, Biddulph, Staffordshire EPM 127V Reliance/Duple in service 5/2002 new as Greenline RB127
Regency Road Touring, Northwich, Staffs WFR 167K Reliance/Plaxton in service 2/2003 ex Abbott, Blackpool, for tour work
Memory Lane, Dorking, Surrey KYY 628
VLT 216

Regent III (RT1790)
Routemaster (RM216)

in service
in service
12/2010
12/2010
Both for special events/private hire/ weddings.
Safeguard, Guildford, Surrey 200 APB Reliance preserved but in service for special events 10/2009 For special events/private hire/ weddings. Was new to Safeguard and repurchased by them in about 2003.
Routemasters for Hire, Tadworth, Surrey SMK 727F
JJD 445D
JJD 596D
CUV 107C
Routemaster (RML2727)
Routemaster (RML2445) Routemaster (RML2596)
Routemaster (RM2107)
in service
in service
in service
in service
06/2011
06/2011
10/2010
10/2010
RML2727 ex International Coach Lines and RML2445 ex Redroute Buses. RM2107 ex Countryliner. All available for private hire.
Red Baron Transport Services (Classic Country Bus), Surrey/West Sussex NLE 644 Regal IV (RF644) in service 4/2010 For wedding and private hires. Restored to service in 2008. Company seems to be associated with Memory Lane as a picture of RF644 also appears on that website.
Renown, Bexhill, E. Sussex CUV 324C Routemaster (RML2324) in service 1/2011 Was formerly with sister company Cavendish of Eastbourne prior to takeover by Stagecoach.
Pavilion Coaches, Hove,
E. Sussex
NLE 701 Leyland RTL in service for wedding hires etc. 6/2006 not actually an AEC but listed here for people looking for a wedding hire bus in Sussex
Promotion Buses, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear JJD 546D Routemaster (RML2546) in service 4/2007 used for wedding hires etc.
Silver Star Holidays, Caernarfon, North Wales LPT 328 Regal III / Burlingham coach in service for private hire 3/2011 Available for private hire and wedding transport. Company reformed Nov 2011 after going into administration Oct 2011 - continued ownership of LPT subject to confirmation.
LondonBus4Hire, Monmouthshire, South Wales 357 CLT
JJD 583D
Routemaster (RM1357)
Routemaster (RML2583)
in service for private hire
in service for private hire
12/2011
12/2011
Bath Bus, Cardiff, South Wales ALD 978B Routemaster (RM1978) in service (City Sightseeing) 2/2011 Ex Aintree Coachline, acquired from Ensign in exchanged for RM25
Midland Red South, Stratford, Warwickshire JJD 565D Routemaster (RML2565) in service, for Private Hire use 5/2010 Acquired with takeover of Stratford Blue from Ensign. In SB livery and also used for special events.
Wheels, Nuneaton, Warwickshire AFN 767B Regent V acquired 8/2004
Albion Coaches/ Wednesbury Coaches, West Bromwich,West Midlands OKY 63R
Reliance/Plaxton
in service 10/2002
Abbeyways, Halifax,
West Yorkshire
SIB 7882 (EBM 446T) Reliance/Plaxton acquired 12/2001
Elanton, Stourport,
Worcestershire
WJH 322M Reliance/Plaxton in service 1/2002
Baldry's Coaches, Holme Upon Spalding Moor, E. Yorkshire 1189 PP (BTH 365V) Reliance/Duple in service 5/2011 For private hire (light duties only). Was new to Eynons, Trimsaran as BTH 365V.
Red Bus Days, Keighley, N. Yorkshire JJD 475D Routemaster (RML2475) inservice 10/2011 For private hire and weddings.
Corbetts Travel,
Sheffield, S. Yorkshire
A197 PPU Reliance/Berkhof rebody currently out of use but planned to return to service 10/2009 New to East Kent (HFN 28L).
Yorkshire Heritage Bus Company (Halifax Joint Committee), Halifax, West Yorkshire LJX 198
PFN 858
MDJ 918E
214 CLT
BOW 503C
KOW 902F
Regent V/Weymann
Regent V/Park Royal
Regent V/MCW
Routemaster (RM1214)
Regent V/Neepsend
Regent V/Neepsend
heritage fleet
heritage fleet
heritage fleet
heritage fleet
acquired
acquired
12/2007
12/2007
8/2008
12/2007
2/2011
2/2011
The three Regents new to Hebble, East Kent and St. Helens, and RM1214 are in Halifax Joint Commitee livery alongside two Leyland PD2 open-toppers. The two ex Southampton Regents were bought from preservation in 2011.
Just Travel of York, York, Yorkshire EPM 150V Reliance/Plaxton in service for private hire and weddings 10/2009 Restored to service in JT livery (pictured in the livery of former owner Andersons). Was the last ever Greenline AEC.
KBMT, Keighley, West Yorkshire XYJ 418 (WLT 736) Routemaster (RM736) in service 2/2007 for private hire and weddings
Geldards, Leeds,
W. Yorkshire
SMK 702F Routemaster (RML2702) in service 10/2006 for private hire and weddings
Millenium Travel (Keats), Sheffield, S. Yorkshire TIL 8638 (A806 RNW) Reliance/Berkhof rebody withdrawn 5/2008 New to E. Kent (HFN 54L).
David Palmer Travel, Normanton, W. Yorkshire JJD 531D Routemaster (RML2531) acquired 9/2008 Previously with Saltaire Travel
First Eastern England reserve Routemasters JJD 480D
NML 623E
RML2480 (39480) is with Eastern Counties and RML2623 (39623) is with Essex Buses at Colchester. Neither have any regular work following sporadic summer use at Great Yarmouth in previous years. 7/2011
Stagecoach reserve Routemasters CUV 286C
NML 607E
NML 641E
SMK 738F
Not in service but with the potential to do so if required, Stagecoach has RML2286, 2607, 2641, 2738 stored at Workington, Carlisle and Stockton. 2/2011

Acknowledgements

Thanks to the following people for contributing information to this page and the Preserved AECs page: Geoff, Pat Avery (Big Red Bus Company), Jonathan Bale, Richard Alan Bell, Howard Berry, Gavin Bishop (South Devon Railway), Terry Blackman, Gavin Bowker, Martin Bott, Andrew Bowman (Bowmans Coaches), the late Julian Brinkworth, Keith Brown (Old London Bus), Ken Brown, Roger Brown (Shaftesbury & District), Dave Brundrit (RML Travel), John Burch, Paul Burgess, Philip Clarke, Arthur Clegg, Stacey Collins, Gerry Cork, Michael Creegan, Tom Cunnington (Classic Country Bus), Martin Detheridge (LondonBus4Hire), Alan Dobson (Regency Road Pullman tours), Richard Dodge, Phil Drake, John Emmens, David Ferguson (East Kent Heritage), Stuart Fleet (Timebus Travel), Tom (Foundry Coaches), Don Flockhart, George Fok, Richard Francis, Duane Fryer, Mike Fuller (The Wedding Bus!), John Gaff, Jerry Gibb, Andy Gilmour, Dave Godley, Terry Gower, Ewan Gray, Jason Hartley (CBNW), John Harvey, Mark Hastilow, Lawrence Hayward, Mac Head, Patrick Holder, Mark Howarth (Western Greyhound), Edward Jacobs, Colin Janes, David Kat, John Kennedy (Fleetcar), Chris Kilby (Route 24 Buses), Nigel Lamport, Peter Legg, Carl Lombardelli, Charles Looker, David Lord (Morecambe Heritage Bus), Bob Lunney (Nippybus), M&D and East Kent Bus Club, Scott McAvoy, Alasdair McFarlane, Ian McKinnnon, Chris Matthews (Red Bus Days), Chris Meads, P.D. Monk, Stephen Morriss (Cumbria Classic Coaches), Allan Morse, Keith Nason, Roy Naylor, Richard O'Leary, Maurice Orme, Marcus Perry, Mark Plant, Phil Platt, Bob Potter (Local Haunts), Jim Prescott, Harry Prew-Smith (Exclusive Cars), Colin Read, Simon Reed, Regent101, Dave Robinson, Vince Sayer, Craig Schofield, Suzy Scott, Richard Sharman, Kevin Simms, James Simpson (Just Travel of York), James Skeate, Ron Smart, Eric Speckman, Michael Spriggs, Tom Stanhope (Byeways), Barry Stockley, John Swift, Colin Swinson, Darryl Sullivan, Andy at TAG Publications, Mike Tamkin (Alphabus), Matthew Taylor, Steve Taylor, Sholto Thomas, Brian Thompson, Derek Thomson, Robert Turner, John Wakefield, Rikkie Wakelin (Saltaire Travel), Nick Warner (Warners Bus & Coach), Alan Warren, Martin Watts, Brian Way, James Weatherall, West Yorkshire UK buses, Phil Willson, Ian Wilson, Bob Wingrove, Andrew Withers, Andrew Wright... and anyone else I forgot to acknowledge.

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