Locations > South West





Bristol

Nearby: North: Chepstow, East: Bath, South: Wells, West: Weston-super-Mare

First 32254

FIRST 32254 ON BOND STREET

Bristol, located in South West England, is a vibrant city known for its rich maritime history, diverse culture, and significant contributions to public transportation. Situated on the River Avon, it serves as a major hub connecting various parts of the region.​

🚌 Bus Services and Operators:

Bristol boasts an extensive bus network operated by several companies:

  • First West of England: The primary operator in the city, First West of England runs the majority of local bus services, including the Metrobus rapid transit routes. The company has a fleet of over 550 buses and operates from multiple depots across the region.

  • Stagecoach West: Provides services connecting Bristol to surrounding towns and cities, offering both local and regional routes.

  • The Big Lemon: An independent operator that began services in Bristol in 2022. They run the X91 route.

🕰️ Historical Overview:

Bristol's public transport history dates back to 1875 with the establishment of the Bristol Tramways Company, which began horse-drawn tram services. In 1906, motor buses were introduced, marking the city's transition to more modern forms of transport. The Bristol Omnibus Company, formed in 1957, became a dominant force in the region's bus services.

A significant event in the city's transport history is the 1963 Bristol Bus Boycott. Led by civil rights activist Paul Stephenson, the boycott protested against the Bristol Omnibus Company's refusal to employ Black and Asian bus crews. The successful campaign led to the company reversing its discriminatory policy and contributed to the UK's Race Relations Act of 1965.

📷 Bus Spotting Popularity:

Bristol is a popular destination for bus enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of vehicles and services to observe. The city's commitment to sustainable transport is evident in the introduction of natural gas-powered and electric buses, adding to the variety for bus spotters.

📝 Summary:

In summary, Bristol's rich transport heritage, combined with its diverse and modern bus network, makes it an attractive location for bus spotting enthusiasts.​

Last updated: April 2025


Photo Locations


Bond Street


First West of England 39454, registered YN20 CCF, a modern Scania ADL Enviro400 City CBG double-decker in smart dark blue livery, captured in service on Bond Street, operating a Y1 service into the city

Stagecoach West 11233, registration SN69 ZDP, an Alexander Dennis Enviro400 MMC, travelling along Bond Street in Bristol city centre, operating a route 9 service to Portway Park & Ride


Broadmead



First West of England 32553 (SF54 OSR), a Volvo B7TL with Wright Eclipse Gemini bodywork, pictured on Bridewell Street in Bristol

First West of England 39462, registered YN20 CCZ, a Scania ADL Enviro400 City CBG in the striking South Glos Lynx livery, on Bridewell Street operating a T1 service heading into the city centre

HCT Group 2924, registered YN68 EUR, a Scania ADL Enviro400 City CBG captured in Metrobus livery and branded for the m1 route, on Bridewell Street, operating an m1 service to Hengrove Park


The Centre


First West of England 32331 (LK53 LYP), a Volvo B7TL with Wright Eclipse Gemini bodywork, operating in Bristol city centre on Colston Avenue

First West of England 32347 (LK53 LZH), a Volvo B7TL / Wright Eclipse Gemini, captured on Anchor Street in Bristol


The Haymarket


First West of England 39488, registration YN69 DTK, a Scania ADL Enviro400 City CBG in striking Metrobus livery, complete with branding for the m1 route, on The Haymarket operating an m1 service to Hengrove Park


The Horsefair & Penn Street


First West of England 35108, registered SO15 CUH, a Wright StreetDeck double-decker on The Horsefair, operating a 72 service to Temple Meads

Stagecoach West 11234, registration SN69 ZDR, an Alexander Dennis Enviro400 MMC double-decker captured in the heart of Bristol on Penn Street, heading out on a route 9 service to Brislington


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