The iconic £1 Magic Buses, a student favorite, make their final runs in Manchester, marking the end of an era for local transport.
Manchester: The Magic Buses have been a part of life in south Manchester for nearly 30 years. Since 1996, they’ve been the go-to for students heading to university and nights out.
These double-deckers were cheap and reliable, making them a favorite among students. But just yesterday, the last of the Magic Buses took their final trips, marking a bittersweet goodbye.
While the 142, 143, and 147 services will still run, they’ll now be under the Bee Network umbrella. The Magic Bus first hit the streets of Manchester in 1996, using older Stagecoach vehicles.
They quickly became essential for students, connecting areas like Withington, Fallowfield, and Rusholme to the city center. For many, riding a packed Magic Bus was part of the fun of a night out.
With their blue and yellow colors and the iconic wizard logo, these buses were a common sight along Wilmslow Road, known as one of the busiest bus routes in Europe.
For years, fares were kept low to help students save money. Tickets started at just £1, then went up to £1.50 in 2017, and later to £1.80.
While many have fond memories of the Magic Buses, not everyone was a fan. The buses have seen upgrades over the years, but the name stuck around.
In 2019, Stagecoach switched to electric buses, replacing the old double-deckers with a new fleet. The classic blue and yellow design was updated to a fresh azure look.
Now, the Magic Bus brand is officially retired as all Stagecoach services in Greater Manchester transition to public control under the Bee Network, which started in September 2023.
Fares will align with other buses in the Bee Network, which capped adult single fares at £2 since September 2022 to help with the cost-of-living crisis.
Rob Jones, Managing Director at Stagecoach Manchester, shared, “This is a landmark moment for Manchester’s transport. Our services have been part of the city’s story for decades, and we’re immensely proud of what we’ve achieved.”
Claire Miles, CEO at Stagecoach Group, added, “For over 25 years, Stagecoach Manchester has connected communities and delivered dependable, affordable travel, with the Magic Bus becoming an iconic symbol of the city.”
As we move to the Bee Network, the legacy of the Magic Bus will always hold a special place in the hearts of Manchester residents.
