Routemaster buses have been regularly operated in London for nearly 50 years. Many of the buses received engine replacements and other upgrades that allow them to serve when others had to be retired. The open platform boarding and conductor operation made these buses a unique London institution.
Since 2005, articulated “bendy” buses have replaced Routemasters on many lines. To outsiders, articulated buses are nothing special and are common in cities around the world. However, many Londoners feel that articulated buses don’t fit well in their city.