London HOHO Route Map: All Lines & Stops Explained

Navigating London is easier when you understand the color-coded Hop-On Hop-Off bus network. Each line serves a different purpose—from ticking off the big bucket-list icons to exploring deeper into royal parks and museums.

Here is your detailed guide to the paths, stops, and monuments along each route.

The Big Three Routes

Most major operators (Big Bus, Tootbus, City Sightseeing) follow a similar logic, though route names might vary slightly.

• Red Route (Classic/Essential): The core loop. Hits 90% of the famous landmarks.
• Blue Route (Royal/Museums): West London focus. Palaces, parks, and world-class museums.
• Green/Orange Links: Connectors to train stations like King’s Cross or specific hotels.

🔴 The Red Route: The "Day One" Essential

This is the route you see on postcards. It hugs the River Thames and circles the absolute center of London. If you only have one day, this is the line to ride.

Key Monuments & Venues

• Buckingham Palace: The King's London residence.
• Big Ben & Houses of Parliament: The iconic clock tower and seat of government.
• Westminster Abbey: The coronation church.
• London Eye: Giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views.
• St Paul’s Cathedral: Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece with its massive dome.
• Tower of London: Home of the Crown Jewels and the Beefeaters.
• Tower Bridge: The most famous bridge in the world (often confused with London Bridge!).
• Trafalgar Square: Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery.
• Piccadilly Circus: The "Times Square" of London with neon lights.

Best For

• First-time visitors.
• Photographers wanting classic shots.
• Families who want to see the main sights efficiently.

Tip: The section along the Thames Embankment offers uninterrupted views of the skyline. Sit on the left side of the upper deck when traveling towards the Tower for the best river views.

🔵 The Blue Route: Royal Parks & Museums

Head West! This route is leafier, grander, and perfect for a more relaxed pace. It often overlaps with the Red Route at key hubs (like Victoria or Marble Arch) allowing you to switch easily.

Key Monuments & Venues

• Kensington Palace: Official residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
• Harrods: The world’s most famous luxury department store in Knightsbridge.
• Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs and stunning architecture.
• Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A): Art and design powerhouse.
• Science Museum: Interactive fun for all ages.
• Hyde Park: Massive green space, great for a picnic.
• Notting Hill: Colorful houses and the famous Portobello Road Market.
• Marble Arch: The gateway to Oxford Street shopping.
• Paddington Station: Link to Heathrow Express and Elizabeth Line.

Best For

• Museum lovers (South Kensington is a goldmine).
• Shoppers (Harrods & Oxford Street).
• Fans of Royal history.

🟢 The Green/Link Routes: Connectors

These shorter routes are designed to shuttle people from major transport hubs into the main sightseeing loops. They are functional but still pass interesting spots.

Key Stops

• King’s Cross / St Pancras: For Eurostar and Harry Potter’s Platform 9 ¾.
• Euston Station: Major rail hub.
• British Museum: Home to the Rosetta Stone (often a stop on these connector loops).
• Covent Garden: Street performers, markets, and theatres.

Best For

• Arriving or departing by train.
• Staying in hotels around Bloomsbury or King’s Cross.
• Visiting the British Museum explicitly.

Interchange Points: Where paths cross

To maximize your ticket, you'll want to switch routes ("hop") at these major hubs where lines intersect:

Pro Strategy: Start your day on the Red Route to see the big sights before crowds peak. Around lunchtime, switch to the Blue Route as crowds thin out in the west, and spend your afternoon in a museum or Hyde Park.

Summary of Options

• Classic Ticket (24h): Usually Red Route only or Red + Blue. Good for a sprint.
• Premium Ticket (48h): All routes included based. Ideal for thorough exploration.
• Night Tour: A separate non-stop loop (usually Yellow or Purple) showing the city illuminated.

Remember to download the provider's app for the live version of this map to track buses in real-time!