Stagecoach Unveils Special Portsmouth100 Heritage Bus to Celebrate City’s Centenary

Stagecoach South is proud to announce the launch of a uniquely transformed double-decker bus, created in partnership with Portsmouth Museums, as part of the Portsmouth100 centenary celebrations.

The bespoke bus installation showcases a curated exhibition spanning the last 100 years of Portsmouth’s rich social and cultural history. Presented on one of Stagecoach’s signature gold buses, the display offers a striking and accessible way for residents and visitors to engage with the city’s heritage in a dynamic, public setting.

This initiative reflects a close collaboration between Stagecoach, Portsmouth Museums, and a wide network of local partners. Community groups, schools, and colleges from across Portsmouth—from Southsea to Hilsea—are contributing to shaping the exhibition, ensuring it represents the voices and stories of the city’s people.

A spokesperson for Portsmouth Museums said: “Portsmouth100 has been a remarkable opportunity to bring together the city’s shared history in a way that is visible, accessible, and meaningful to everyone. Working with Stagecoach has allowed us to take the collection beyond the museum walls and into the heart of the community. Seeing these objects displayed on a moving platform across the city is a powerful reminder that heritage belongs to everyone in Portsmouth.”

Marc Reddy, Managing Director at Stagecoach South, said: “We’re delighted to support Portsmouth100 with this innovative project. Transforming one of our buses into a mobile heritage space highlights not only our commitment to the communities we serve, but also the creativity and collaboration that define Portsmouth. This is a celebration built by the city, for the city.”

The exhibition will officially open to the public on 26 October and will serve as a moving tribute to Portsmouth’s past, present, and future. The project has been made possible thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with support from National Lottery players.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the bus and discover the collection of historical items and stories that bring Portsmouth’s century-long journey to life.

For more information and to explore featured items, visit: https://www.visitportsmouth.co.uk/portsmouth-100/your-museum-your-stories-your-city/