The Bus Journeys In London That Are Actually Quite Enjoyable! (Yes you read that right)

Some bus journeys are actually enjoyable.

When you actually take the time to look out the window they can be quite nice!

Some can be fun when you're passing through high streets or touristy areas, but the best ones are when you're passing through the London and English countryside!

So many routes penetrate the border of urban London and Surbubia, and I’ve found that the best routes in London to ride are the ones that actually leave London, funnily enough. You’d be surprised how many routes actually leave London. At that point, is it even a TfL bus? But over 40 people leave London, 20 of whom completely leave the M25.

Here are three of my favourites:

Starting off in the southeast of London, you have the 246.

1. Route 246: Bromley North - Westerham (Kent)

This route runs from Bromley North to Westerham in Kent. It’s such a lovely route and is actually the fastest route in London in terms of average speed—it’s the fastest by a mile (20 mph which is very high!) It goes through lots of suburbia within Bromley, including Hayes, Keston, and then Biggin Hill Valley, which is wonderful. Biggin Hill is so beautiful. You’ve got the valleys and even Biggin Hill Airport, where you can pop out and do some private plane spotting. It’s incredible, absolutely stunning.

From there, you make your way down winding country roads, which are amazing in the summertime or when the greenery is lush. You feel like you’re riding through a forest. It’s fantastic, and you end up in the wonderful Westerham, a lovely, idyllic little town—perfect for a nice Saturday morning switch-up from your usual London life.

Definitely a route to check out.

Next, I’d recommend the journey on the 313 route, specifically between Enfield and Potters Bar.

2.Route 313: Chingford - Potters Bar (Hertfordshire)

This route passes through the green, country-like suburbia of Enfield, which might surprise you that it’s still in London! It feels vast with greenery and has a country-like charm. You go through mini valleys and fast country roads; it’s such an incredible ride. Honestly, it brought a smile to my face when I rode it a couple of weeks ago. You end up in Potters Bar, which isn’t a terrible area, but there’s not much to do. You might as well do a 360 and head back into London. So, this one is great for the ride itself. 😂

Finally, we have the 370.

3.Route 370: Romford - Lakeside (Essex)

This is an incredible route, specifically between the outer London section of Upminster and Lakeside. It goes a fair bit out of London into Essex. It doesn’t have incredibly fast roads but goes through lots of country lanes, making for a nippy, fast route. You end up at Lakeside, which is nice. It’s the only completely out-of-town shopping centre in the UK. Lakeside has a lot going on and is a fun switch-up from your typical Westfield. If you’re in East London, this is one to check out.

A couple of honourable mentions: the 320, which runs from Biggin Hill to Catford. It’s a lovely route, similar to the 246, passing through Biggin Hill and Bromley’s greenery. Another shout-out goes to the 96. While it’s more industrial, the last section before Bluewater is incredible. It feels like you’re driving through a mountain, descending into Bluewater bus station, and you look back to see what feels like a cliff—it’s breathtaking.

So yeah, those are some journeys I’ve enjoyed in London over the last few months. If you have some free time and want to explore new areas, definitely check out these routes. There are so many beautiful countryside and inner-London routes, and I’ll be checking out more soon.

Until then, find a hidden gem near you! 💎