What Color Is London Coach?

By Alice Nichols

Welcome to this in-depth article about the color of London Coach! London Coach is a well-known and iconic mode of transportation in the bustling city of London. It is an integral part of the city’s public transportation system.

The Color of London Coach

London Coach is primarily painted in a distinct shade of red. This vibrant red color has become synonymous with the city’s iconic double-decker buses, making them easily recognizable and a symbol of London’s transport network.

The History Behind the Color

London Coach was first introduced in 1956, and it was then that the decision was made to paint them red. The choice of red was not random; it had historical significance. In the early 1900s, London’s buses were mainly painted in various colors depending on their ownership.

However, in 1907, the London General Omnibus Company (LGOC) took over most of these independent bus companies. As part of their branding strategy, LGOC decided to paint their buses red to make them stand out from their competitors. This distinctive color also helped passengers easily spot a bus from a distance.

The Evolution of Red

Over time, there have been variations in the exact shade of red used on London Coach. Initially, a darker shade known as “pillar box red” was used. However, with advancements in technology and changes in paint formulations, the shade has evolved slightly over the years.

  • In recent years, Transport for London (TfL) has adopted a brighter shade called “TfL Red,” which is used across all its transport modes to create consistency.
  • This vibrant red color not only makes the buses easily recognizable but also adds a sense of vibrancy to the city streets.

Other Colors and Variations

While red is the dominant color of London Coach, there have been some variations and special liveries used for specific events or campaigns.

For example, during the London 2012 Olympic Games, a select number of buses were painted in a unique livery featuring Olympic-themed designs. This added a touch of excitement and celebration to the city during that special time.

In addition to these variations, London also has a fleet of hybrid buses that are green in color. These eco-friendly buses are an important step towards reducing emissions and promoting sustainability in the city.

Conclusion

The color of London Coach is an integral part of its identity. The vibrant red shade has become iconic and instantly recognizable, making it a symbol of London’s transportation system. While variations and special liveries may occasionally appear, the primary color remains red.

Next time you visit London, keep an eye out for these red buses as they zip through the city streets, adding a touch of charm and nostalgia to your journey!