The local bus network in London is one of the most comprehensive bus systems in the world. There are over 6,500 scheduled buses that operate on over 700 different bus routes each day. Over the year this bus network carries over 1.5 billion passengers to their destinations.

Buses in the London Buses network accept both Travelcards and Oyster cards, as well as offering single cash fares and bus-only passes. Within the West End of London and on routes throughout London operated by 'bendy' buses, passengers must pre-purchase tickets prior to boarding a bus. In order to make things more convenient, bus stops in the area and on those routes are equipped with ticket machines which sell single tickets and one-day passes. In other places, tickets may be purchased from the bus driver.

The legal identity of London Buses is actually London Bus Services Limited or LBSL. This is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Transport for London. East Thames Buses is just the trading name of another wholly-owned subsidiary. The company lay dormant for some period. It was resurrected as a place for East Thames Buses to live within Transport for London is separate from LBSL. This is one of the greatest bus systems ever organized so you will likely be pleased with the service you receive.