Step Back in Time: Rediscovering the Iconic Edinburgh Buses of the 1970s

Do you remember the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh streets in the 1970s? The vibrant cityscape filled with iconic red double-decker buses, their engines roaring, as they weaved through the narrow lanes and carried passengers to their destinations. Let's take a nostalgic journey back in time to the era when these buses ruled the roads and hold a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

1. The Transformation of Edinburgh's Bus Network

In the 1970s, Edinburgh's transportation system underwent a significant overhaul, resulting in a notable transformation of the bus network. New routes were introduced, and existing ones were altered, offering improved connectivity across the city. As a result, the red buses became an integral part of the daily lives of residents, ferrying them to work, school, and leisure activities.

The iconic Alexander-bodied Leyland Atlantean double-decker buses were the stars of the show. Painted in striking red livery adorned with the city's crest, these buses were a sight to behold. With their sleek design and towering presence, they left an indelible mark on the streets, capturing the imagination of those who encountered them.

Edinburgh Buses of the 1970s

by Byron Babbish(Paperback – February 15, 2016)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	41036 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	208 pages
Paperback	:	96 pages
Item Weight	:	10.7 ounces
Dimensions	:	6.5 x 0.3 x 9.21 inches

FREE

2. The Magnificence of the Alexander-bodied Leyland Atlantean

These remarkable vehicles boasted a unique blend of functionality, comfort, and aesthetics. The Alexander-bodied Leyland Atlantean was a work of art on wheels. With its spacious interior, featuring high-backed seats and ample legroom, passengers could relax as they embarked on their urban voyages.

The unrivaled view from the top deck became a sought-after experience. From this vantage point, passengers could witness the splendid architectural wonders that Edinburgh had to offer - the enchanting Edinburgh Castle, the majestic Arthur's Seat, and the historic Royal Mile, all unfolding before their eyes as they traveled through the city.

Driven by skilled and experienced conductors, these buses offered an exemplary level of service. The conductors, often sporting smart uniforms, provided assistance to passengers, maintained order, and ensured that everyone had a pleasant journey. The personal touch they added to the experience of traveling by bus made it all the more enjoyable.

3. Exploring the Routes Less Traveled

One reason why the red buses of Edinburgh were so beloved was their ability to venture into areas that were less accessible by other means of transportation. They offered a lifeline to remote communities, connecting them to vital services and urban hubs. These buses were lifelines for students, elderly, and families alike, providing a sense of connection and belonging.

Imagine hopping onto one of these buses and embarking on a journey through the picturesque surroundings of Dean Village or the historic Grassmarket. These hidden gems became more accessible as the buses traversed the winding roads and reached parts of the city that may have been off the beaten path for many.

4. Edinburgh's Buses: A Symbol of Unity

The red buses of the 1970s became more than just a mode of transportation. They were a symbol of unity in a city rich with history and diversity. People from all walks of life shared these journeys, engaging in conversations and forging connections that transcended social and cultural boundaries.

Passengers would often strike up conversations with strangers, sharing stories and experiences as they moved through the bustling streets. It was on these buses that friendships were formed and relationships blossomed, contributing to the strong sense of community that still exists in Edinburgh today.

5. The End of an Era

As time moved forward, the iconic red buses gradually made way for newer models. The advent of modern technology and the changing needs of the city led to their retirement. However, their memory lives on, cherished by those who experienced the magic of riding the buses in the 1970s.

If you happen to come across an old photograph or a relic from that era, take a moment to reflect on the role these buses played in shaping the history and culture of Edinburgh. They stand as a testament to an era of community, camaraderie, and the spirit of exploration.

6. Reliving the Nostalgia

Despite the passage of time, it is still possible to relive the nostalgia of Edinburgh's buses from the 1970s. The preservation efforts of various organizations have allowed some of these iconic vehicles to remain in operation, offering enthusiasts and curious bystanders alike a chance to ride on a piece of history.

Step aboard one of these beautifully restored buses and take a journey back to a time when the streets of Edinburgh were buzzing with energy and excitement. As you hear the engine roar and feel the gentle sway of the bus, you will be transported to an era that continues to captivate the imagination of all those who seek to uncover the city's rich past.

7.

The red buses of Edinburgh in the 1970s were more than just a means of transportation. They were a symbol of unity, a source of nostalgia, and a witness to the city's remarkable transformation. Today, as we look back at these charming vehicles, we are reminded of the connections they fostered and the memories they created.

If you ever find yourself strolling through the vibrant streets of Edinburgh, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and heritage embedded within its transportation system. The red buses may have vanished from the streets, but their legacy remains etched in the hearts of Edinburgh's residents and visitors.

Edinburgh Buses of the 1970s

by Byron Babbish(Paperback – February 15, 2016)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	41036 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	208 pages
Paperback	:	96 pages
Item Weight	:	10.7 ounces
Dimensions	:	6.5 x 0.3 x 9.21 inches

FREE

In 1928, Edinburgh Corporation Transport was formed as the corporation increasingly began to run buses as well as trams in the city. Edinburgh Corporation Transport continued to run Edinburgh’s buses until 1975, when Lothian Regional Transport was set up. In this book, George Fairbairn, who grew up in Edinburgh in the 1960s and 1970s and who was a keen amateur photographer of the city’s buses, documents the changeover.This book provides a wonderful colour portrait of Scotland’s capital city and its buses in the 1970s, a period of great change in Britain.