They say the number 11 bus is so long, by the time you finish the route, you’ll have aged a year! Jokes aside, it’s actually the longest urban bus route in Europe. So, if you hop on, make sure you’ve got snacks, maybe a pillow, and perhaps a calendar to track the days. They say the number 11 bus is so long, by the time you finish the route, you’ll have aged a year! Jokes aside, it’s actually the longest urban bus route in Europe. So, if you hop on, make sure you’ve got snacks, maybe a pillow, and perhaps a calendar to track the days.
They say the number 11 bus is so long, by the time you finish the route, you’ll have aged a year! Jokes aside, it’s actually the longest urban bus route in Europe. So, if you hop on, make sure you’ve got snacks, maybe a pillow, and perhaps a calendar to track the days. | LTV

Are you really a Brummie if you haven’t experienced these 14 things while travelling by bus in Birmingham?

Rushana Miller
By Rushana Miller

Digital Journalist

Published 28th Mar 2024, 12:40 BST

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here are the things you need to know about travelling by bus in Birmingham

If you’re planning to explore the vibrant city of Birmingham, nestled in the heart of the United Kingdom, you’re in for a treat!

Birmingham boasts an extensive public transport network, including buses, trams, and trains, making it easy to get around. The city is conveniently located near other cities like Wolverhampton, Walsall, and Coventry, as well as towns like Solihull and Sutton Coldfield.

From the picturesque canal sides of Brindleyplace to the wide, restaurant-lined streets around Birmingham Cathedral, and the impressive, modern spaces inside Grand Central and the Bullring. But to truly experience it all, you’ll want to hop on a bus and journey across Birmingham all day long.

As a seasoned Birmingham bus traveller, let me take you on a delightful ride through the quirky world of Brummie buses. Buckle up, because we’re about to explore the ins and outs of Birmingham’s public transport.

So whether you’re a local or a visitor, here’s the 14 things you need to know about travelling by bus in Birmingham:

Forget social media; the real networking happens at the bus stops. There’s the eternal complainer who swears he’s been waiting since the '70s. Then there’s the gossip queen who knows everyone’s business (including yours). And let’s not forget, the guy who insists on sharing his conspiracy theories. Embrace it—these conversations are the real city tour.

5. The Unofficial Bus Stop Chat Room

Forget social media; the real networking happens at the bus stops. There’s the eternal complainer who swears he’s been waiting since the '70s. Then there’s the gossip queen who knows everyone’s business (including yours). And let’s not forget, the guy who insists on sharing his conspiracy theories. Embrace it—these conversations are the real city tour. | william87 - stock.adobe.com

Boarding a Birmingham bus has a few steps. First, the graceful nod to the driver—acknowledging their existence without making eye contact (it’s a Brummie thing). Next, the seat selection: Avoid the one with the suspicious stain, claim the window seat, and pretend the person next to you doesn’t exist. Finally, the exit, exit swiftly, avoiding the dreaded “Sorry, babs, you’re blocking the way.”

6. The Bus Etiquette

Boarding a Birmingham bus has a few steps. First, the graceful nod to the driver—acknowledging their existence without making eye contact (it’s a Brummie thing). Next, the seat selection: Avoid the one with the suspicious stain, claim the window seat, and pretend the person next to you doesn’t exist. Finally, the exit, exit swiftly, avoiding the dreaded “Sorry, babs, you’re blocking the way.” | Flickr

Who says you need a gym membership? Just run for the bus! It’s a full-body workout, especially when you sprint like an Olympian only to watch the bus pull away as you reach the stop.

7. The Commuter’s Workout

Who says you need a gym membership? Just run for the bus! It’s a full-body workout, especially when you sprint like an Olympian only to watch the bus pull away as you reach the stop. | Juando González - stock.adobe.com

They’re so fancy with their comfort seats and chargers, you half expect a butler to greet you with a towel and a selection of fine teas. Instead, you get a nod from the driver and the alluring scent of fast food – equally charming.

8. The Ultra-Modern Platinum Experience

They’re so fancy with their comfort seats and chargers, you half expect a butler to greet you with a towel and a selection of fine teas. Instead, you get a nod from the driver and the alluring scent of fast food – equally charming. | Flickr

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