What Is the Shortest London Bus Route?

By Robert Palmer

London is a sprawling metropolis with a vast network of buses that criss-cross the city every day. With its iconic red double-decker buses, London’s bus system is not only a convenient way to get around the city but also a popular tourist attraction.

However, have you ever wondered which is the shortest London bus route? Let’s find out!

Route 389

The shortest London bus route is the Route 389, which runs from Barnet to London Bridge station. The total distance covered by this route is just 11.1 kilometers (6.9 miles), and it takes approximately 40 minutes to complete the journey.

Route Overview

The Route 389 starts from Barnet High Street and runs through East Finchley, Highgate, Tufnell Park, Camden Road, Kings Cross Station and terminates at London Bridge station. The bus operates every day of the week, with services running every 10-15 minutes during peak hours and every 20 minutes during off-peak hours.

Why Is It So Short?

You might be wondering why this route is so short compared to other London bus routes which can be much longer. One reason for this is that it operates in an area where there are already several other transport options available such as the Northern Line on the London Underground and Overground trains.

Another reason could be due to traffic congestion in central London. With traffic in central London infamous for being slow-moving at times, it makes sense for Transport for London (TfL) to keep this route short so that passengers can reach their destination faster.

Bus Fleet

The Route 389 uses standard double-decker buses with a capacity of around 80 passengers per vehicle. These buses are operated by Arriva London North Bus Company on behalf of TfL.

Fares

The fare for Route 389 is the same as other London bus routes and is charged according to the distance traveled. Passengers can use their Oyster cards or contactless payment methods such as credit or debit cards to pay for their journey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the shortest London bus route is Route 389, which covers a distance of just 11.9 miles). Despite its short length, it plays an important role in providing transport links between Barnet and central London and serves as a convenient option for commuters and tourists alike. So next time you’re in London, why not take a ride on this iconic red double-decker bus and experience the city like a local!