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Magic Bus Takes Its Final Bow in Manchester

Well, that’s that. After clocking up an unbelievable 65 million miles over 25 years, Manchester’s much-loved Magic Bus has made its last stop.

Four double-decker buses parked in a row in a lot. Each bus is painted in different colors: blue, red, orange, and white, with various signage visible on the front. The ground is wet, indicating recent rain.
Stagecoach Manchester

Earlier this month, Stagecoach Manchester officially handed over the reins to the Bee Network, Transport for Greater Manchester’s ambitious integrated transport system. It’s a big step for the city, marking the start of a new chapter while waving goodbye to a proper legend of the roads.

A Legacy Built on Wheels

Introduced in 1996, the Magic Bus wasn’t just a cheap way to get about—it was a lifeline for students, commuters and anyone watching the pennies. Reliable, affordable and instantly recognisable, it became part of daily life for Mancunians.

And it wasn’t just about getting from A to B. Who could forget Wizard Wednesdays? Students in fancy dress, drivers joining in with costumes and all of it raising cash for charity. It was daft, but it worked.

The Magic Bus also played a part in some of Manchester’s biggest moments. It ferried fans to and from the Commonwealth Games in 2002, introduced hybrid buses long before they were trendy and led the charge on cutting carbon emissions.

Keeping the Magic Alive

While the buses might no longer be trundling up and down Wilmslow Road, they won’t be forgotten. Stagecoach is donating one of its iconic low-floor double-deckers to the Museum of Transport, cementing its place in the city’s history.

The Buzz of the Bee Network

As the Bee Network gets into gear, Stagecoach Manchester’s 1,600 drivers and staff are sticking around to keep things running smoothly. The Bee Network promises exciting changes, but Stagecoach remains an important operator within the system.

Looking Back, Moving Forward

Rob Jones, Managing Director of Stagecoach Manchester, said:

“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. As we transition to the Bee Network, we remain committed to delivering the same excellent service customers know and trust.”

Claire Miles, Stagecoach Group CEO, 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. Its legacy lives on as we continue to serve Greater Manchester under the Bee Network.”

A Timeline of Magic Moments

  • 1996: Magic Bus hits the road on Wilmslow Road.
  • 2000: The Beach Ball livery rolls out, becoming a local icon.
  • 2002: Magic Bus provides shuttle services during the Commonwealth Games.
  • 2010: Wizard Wednesdays kick off, raising funds for prostate and testicular cancer charities.
  • 2012: Stagecoach wins the North West Carbon Reduction Award.
  • 2013: Named Bus Operator of the Year at the UK Bus Awards.
  • 2020: Manchester’s first double-decker electric buses hit the streets.
  • 2023: Celebrated 25 years with a special livery featuring long-serving staff.

The Magic Bus might be off the road, but it’ll not be forgotten in a hurry. Farewell to a Manchester legend—here’s to what’s next with the Bee Network!

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