Old London bus converted into Scots B&B

A BUS which spent most of its life ferrying weary passengers around London has been transformed into luxury bed and breakfast accommodation.

Scots farmers have transformed an old London bus into a B&B. Picture: PA Photo

Innovative farmers at Bankrugg Farm in Gifford, East Lothian, have spent several years converting a 20-year-old automobile into a holiday destination.

The bus, which used to run between Feltham and Heathrow, now boasts four beds, a log-burning stove, bathroom and even a hot tub.

And intrigued Scots are queuing up for the chance to stay over - for £100 a night.

The vehicle, which still retains its original doors, steps and wheels, was completely gutted to make room for bed and breakfast facilities.

The idea was born two years ago, when Elaine Lamont and her partner Balfour Stewart decided to diversify their farm.

They shelled out £2,000 for the old London bus, and together with Balfour’s son and son-in-law, set about giving the single-decker a new lease of life.

One of the most unique features is an in-built glass roof over the double bedroom, allowing guests to star-gaze from the back of the bus.

Large windows also allow visitors to look out over the farm to the hills beyond, possibly catching sight of the family’s resident alpacas.

An extended wooden deck with barbecue and hot tub means that holidaymakers can make the most of the Scottish summer sun.

The in-built bunk beds are generally recommended for youngsters, but are large enough for adults who don’t mind reverting back to their childhood.

There is even wifi for those who want to check their emails while away.

The accommodation, aptly named ‘The Bus Stop’, is now listed on AirBnb and guests can pay £100 per night to stay.

It has already caused such a stir that the bus is fully booked until the end of August.

Elaine, 59 said: “It was Balfour’s idea. We wanted to diversify the farm and thought that this would be something different for the next generation.

“We actually bought three buses - two singles and a double-decker - but this is the first that’s open for business.

“The bus gives a glamping experience alongside the stunning views that this area offers. Visitors can walk around our farm and also visit our small herd of alpacas.”

She added: “The whole family chipped in to make it work. The renovations cost more than we expected but it was well worth it.

“Our other single-decker bus will hopefully be finished in October, and we’ve got our fingers crossed the double-decker will be done by the start of next year.”

Despite spending much of its life in London, the bus also spent some time ferrying passengers around Scotland’s capital.

For several years it was used as a spare bus for service 13 between Restalrig and Craigleith, and during that time carried several vinyl wraps to promote the Dean Art Galleries which are situated on the route.

It was eventually withdrawn from service in early 2014 when it was purchased by Elaine and Balfour and towed up to their farm.

Elaine and Balfour are also in the process of transforming a smaller bus into a hen house, meaning visitors will soon be able to choose their own fresh eggs in the morning.

Elaine said: “It started as a dream a few years ago and now we’re there. The adventure begins.”

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