Double Decker Bus – Dimensions, Prices, Tours and History

Few vehicles are as instantly recognisable as the double decker bus. Whether it is the classic Routemaster navigating the streets of London or a modern electric coach carrying commuters in a busy city, this two-level vehicle has become a symbol of urban transport worldwide. But beyond its iconic silhouette, there is much to understand about its dimensions, cost, history, and the different roles it plays today.

This guide covers the key facts about double decker buses, from their size and price to the best tours and the manufacturers that build them.

What is a Double Decker Bus?

A double decker bus is a bus with two passenger decks, designed to carry significantly more people than a single-deck vehicle without occupying additional road space. According to Wikipedia, a double-decker bus is "a bus that has two storeys or decks." Modern examples can carry up to 90 passengers, while a standard single decker typically accommodates 40 to 60.

The most famous variant is the Routemaster, built by the Associated Equipment Company (AEC) and Park Royal Vehicles for London Transport. Designed in the late 1940s, it entered service in 1954 and remained in production until 1968, as noted by Guide London. Today, electric double decker buses from manufacturers such as BYD are increasingly common in cities aiming to reduce emissions.

Double Decker Bus at a Glance

Key Insights

• Double decker buses are primarily used for high-capacity public transport in dense urban areas such as London.
• The iconic Routemaster is a cultural symbol of London, but modern fleets are increasingly electric, with models like the BYD K9.
• Dimensions are critical for operators: typical height is 4.2–4.4 m, length 10–12 m, and width 2.5–2.55 m.
• Used double decker buses can be purchased for conversion into homes, mobile businesses, or event vehicles, with prices varying widely based on age and condition.
• London sightseeing tours remain the most common consumer touchpoint for double decker buses.

Key Facts at a Glance

What Are the Dimensions of a Double Decker Bus?

Dimensions vary significantly depending on whether the bus is a vintage Routemaster or a modern highbridge model. These measurements are essential for route planning, bridge clearance, and garage storage.

Height

Standard modern double decker buses are around 4.38 m tall. Highbridge versions, which feature a taller upper deck for increased headroom, can reach approximately 4.95 m (16 ft 3 in), according to Wikipedia. Vintage Routemasters from the 1950s are estimated at roughly 4.0 m.

Length

A standard Routemaster (RM model) measures 8.38 m, while the longer RML version reaches 9.12 m, as documented by the AEC Routemaster entry. Modern tour buses typically span 9.5 m to 11.1 m, with some coaches extending to 13.75 m. The maximum legal length for a 3-axle rigid bus in the UK is 15 m.

Width

Width is more consistent. Vintage Routemasters are 2.55 m wide, and modern double deckers fall between 2.4 m and 2.55 m, as reported by Wrightbus.

How Much Does a Double Decker Bus Cost and Where Can I Buy One?

Costs depend heavily on the bus type, age, condition, and whether it is a vintage model or a modern used vehicle.

Purchase Prices

A vintage Routemaster in the UK generally sells for £2,000 to £4,000, according to Guide London. Modern used double deckers vary more widely, typically ranging from £5,000 to over £30,000 depending on age, mileage, and drivetrain type. Electric models command a premium in the used market.

Where to Buy

Specialist bus dealers, online auction platforms, and direct sales from transport operators are the primary channels for purchasing a double decker bus for sale in the UK. Buyers should check for a valid MOT, service history, and any structural modifications if they plan to convert the bus.

Operating Costs and Licensing

Operating a double decker bus requires a commercial driver's license (CDL) or bus license in most jurisdictions. Fuel, maintenance, and insurance costs are significant and should be factored into any purchase decision.

What Are the Best Double Decker Bus Tours in London?

London offers a wide range of double decker bus tours, from vintage Routemaster experiences to modern open-top sightseeing services. Prices vary by operator, ticket type, and whether the bus is vintage or contemporary.

Tour Options and Pricing

Public transport fares in London are much lower, with a single bus journey costing £1.50 and a daily cap of £4.50. However, tour buses offer hop-on-hop-off flexibility with live or recorded commentary.

Evolution of the Double Decker Bus

1. 1820s: First horse-drawn double-decker omnibuses appear in Paris and London.
2. 1900s: Motorized double deckers begin to replace horse-drawn models.
3. 1954: Introduction of the iconic Routemaster bus in London, built by AEC and Park Royal Vehicles.
4. 1968: End of Routemaster production.
5. 2005: Retirement of the last Routemaster from regular London service.
6. 2010s: Rise of electric double deckers, including the BYD K9 and Volvo 7900 Electric.
7. 2025: Modern double deckers feature hybrid or electric drivetrains, WiFi, and enhanced accessibility features.

Clarifying Common Questions and Uncertainties

Why Double Decker Buses Remain Relevant

Double decker buses offer a space-efficient solution for high-density urban transport. Their iconic status, especially in London, has made them a tourist attraction in their own right. Modern manufacturers such as Volvo and Wrightbus focus on electric and hybrid models to meet sustainability goals, while the classic Routemaster endures as a symbol of British design. The market for used double deckers is growing among conversion enthusiasts and event planners who repurpose them as homes, cafes, or mobile venues.

Key Sources and Expert Insights

"A double-decker bus is a bus that has two storeys or decks."

— Wikipedia

"A double-decker bus is a two-level bus designed to carry more passengers than a single-deck vehicle without taking up extra road space."

— Wrightbus

"Known as a Routemaster, this bus was designed in the late 1940s and manufactured until 1968 when production stopped."

— Guide London

What's Next for Double Decker Buses?

The future of double decker buses is electric and increasingly autonomous. Cities such as London already deploy electric double deckers from manufacturers like BYD and Volvo to cut emissions. Autonomous double deckers are in early testing stages. The classic Routemaster will likely remain a tourist icon, while modern versions focus on efficiency, accessibility, and sustainability.

Frequently Asked Questions About Double Decker Buses