Open-top bus service to return to Hastings

Bus operator Stagecoach South East said they will be making a return this bank holiday weekend.

The number 66 service will operate in the town from Saturday, May 1.

The colourful open-top bus first operated in Hastings in 2019, but the transport operator placed the special service on hold last year as a result of lockdown and travel restrictions.

But now, locals and visitors will once again be able to enjoy the nostalgic thrill of the seaside ride along the coastline initially at weekends and bank holidays.

Operating every hour between Harley Shute and Hastings Old Town, passengers will be able to hop on and off at bus stops all along the seaside route.

Then from July 26 to September 5, the popular attraction will operate daily for families to enjoy during the summer break.

The illustrated double-decker bus will also serve Bulverhythe and Rock-A-Nore Beach.

Customers can travel on the service all day long for £4.50 or £4.20 on the Stagecoach App. Up to four children can travel for as little as £1 each with any adult ticket holder.

Government capacity restrictions are currently in place on all public service buses in England, including open-top services. Passenger numbers will remain limited and customers will be advised to avoid sitting immediately behind or in front of another passenger – even on the top deck. Face coverings are also required to be worn at all times, unless exempt.

Katherine Jones, operations manager at the company’s Hastings depot, said: “We’re really excited that our hugely popular open-top route 66 bus will return to the coast this weekend.

“The service was really well-received when we first began operating it back in 2019 and we are proud to be able to offer a fun activity for people of all ages – while also supporting the local economy.”