London Trolleybus
From 1931 to 1962, London ran what was at its peak the largest trolleybus network in the world — 68 routes, 1,811 vehicles, 255 miles of overhead wires. Today the system is gone, replaced first by diesel buses and now increasingly by battery-electric and hydrogen vehicles. This guide covers the full history and where to see preserved examples.
Key facts
Timeline
Trial begins
Three trolleybuses enter service on the Twickenham–Teddington–Hampton Court tram replacement route on 16 May. London United Tramways orders 60 vehicles.
Rapid expansion
London Transport begins systematic tram-to-trolleybus conversion. By 1940 the network reaches its peak: 68 routes, 255 miles of overhead wires and over 1,700 vehicles, making it the largest in the world.
Replacement decided
London Transport publishes the Bus and Coach Replacement Programme — an eight-year plan to replace all trolleybuses with diesel motor buses, principally the new AEC Routemaster.
Stage-by-stage closure
Routes close in 14 numbered stages. North London routes go first; South London routes around Wandsworth, Wimbledon and Sutton last. Routemaster RM and RT-class buses take over.
Last day
Route 297 (Wimbledon–Fulwell depot) runs the final trolleybus service. A ceremonial last vehicle, L3 1521, completes the closure parade. Overhead wires are removed within 18 months.
Where to see London trolleybuses today
- London Transport Museum Depot, Acton — static preserved examples on selected open weekends.
- Trolleybus Museum, Sandtoft (Lincolnshire) — the largest collection in Britain, with ex-London vehicles running on demonstration wires.
- East Anglia Transport Museum, Carlton Colville — operational ex-London trolleybus rides on a dedicated wired loop.
FAQs
Does London still have trolleybuses?
No. London's trolleybus network closed on 8 May 1962 when route 297 ran for the last time. The fleet was replaced by diesel motor buses, primarily AEC Routemasters. The infrastructure (overhead wires and substations) was dismantled within a few years.
Why did London close its trolleybuses?
London Transport judged diesel buses cheaper to operate, more flexible (no overhead wires required), and able to be redeployed easily. Trolleybus fleets were ageing and rewiring streets to support new traffic schemes was expensive. The 1954 Bus and Coach Replacement Programme set out an eight-year closure plan.
When did London trolleybuses run?
From 16 May 1931 (Twickenham trial) until 8 May 1962. The system grew rapidly between 1935 and 1940 as London's tram routes were converted, then declined steadily after the 1954 replacement decision.
Where can I see a London trolleybus today?
Preserved examples are at the London Transport Museum Depot (Acton), the East Anglia Transport Museum (Carlton Colville) and the Trolleybus Museum at Sandtoft. The Sandtoft museum runs ex-London vehicles on demonstration wires several days a year.
Will London get trolleybuses again?
TfL has no plans to reintroduce trolleybuses. Modern equivalents — battery-electric and hydrogen buses — give the same zero-tailpipe-emission benefits without overhead infrastructure. Around 1,800 zero-emission buses now operate across London (2025).
What were the London trolleybus route numbers?
Routes were numbered 500–699. The system began with route 1 (Twickenham–Teddington) but renumbered in 1935 to slot above tram and bus services. Notable routes included 521 (Holborn–North Finchley), 543 (Wood Green–Holborn) and 654 (Crystal Palace–Sutton).