Hatton, located on the southeastern edge of London Heathrow Airport, straddles the London boroughs of Hillingdon and Hounslow. This area, encompassing Hatton Cross, serves as a vital public transport point for both airport operations and local communities.
🚌 Bus Services and Operators:
Hatton Cross is a significant hub in West London's bus network, with several operators providing extensive services:
Transport UK: Formerly called Abellio, operating franchised routes on behalf of Transport for London such as the 90 to Northolt and the 285 to Heathrow Central.
First Bus London: Operates franchised routes for Transport for London including the 423 to Heathrow Terminal 5 and the H25 to Hanworth.
Metrobus: Part of Go-Ahead London, running franchised routes on behalf of Transport for London like the 482 to Southall and the SL7, the only Superloop route that serves Hatton Cross.
Metroline: Part of the ComfortDelGro group, also providing franchised bus services on behalf of Transport for London.
White Bus: An independent operator that runs the 446 service to Woking and 555 service between Heathrow and Whiteley Village.
These operators facilitate travel to destinations such as Feltham, Staines, Butts Farm, and West Croydon.
🕰️ Historical Overview:
Hatton Cross Station opened on 19 July 1975 as part of the Piccadilly line extension towards Heathrow Airport. Initially serving as the terminus, it connected London to the airport until the line extended to Heathrow Central in 1977. The station's design reflects the 1970s aesthetic, featuring distinctive tiling and the British Airways 'Speedbird' logo on central columns.
In terms of bus services, Route 285 commenced operation on 9 May 1962, connecting London Airport Central to various destinations, including Hatton Cross.
📷 Bus Spotting Popularity:
Hatton Cross is a favored location for bus enthusiasts due to its diverse range of services and proximity to Heathrow Airport. The bus station accommodates multiple routes, offering opportunities to observe various bus models and liveries. Additionally, the area's infrastructure allows for clear vantage points, making it ideal for photography and bus spotting activities.
📝 Summary:
In summary, Hatton stands out as a significant and appealling location for bus spotting, combining historical significance with a dynamic array of modern bus services.
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