Ben, TfL Buses and the Challenge

In this episode, Kerrie welcomes father and son duo Tom Clowes and Ben Clowes to discuss Ben's remarkable journey: his personal challenge to ride every single London TfL bus route (excluding night and school-only routes). At just 16, Ben has already completed 302 out of 589 routes, documenting his progress with careful planning, spreadsheets, and a physical map.

Key Discussion Points

• Introducing Ben: Ben Clowes, 16, student at Kingston College studying Travel and Tourism and passionate about exploring London by bus (00:44).

• The Challenge: Ride every regular London bus route, at least two stops per bus, excluding night and school buses (01:30).

• Inspiration: Inspired by transport YouTuber Geoff Marshall (02:47).

• Progress So Far: Over halfway through, with over 300 bus routes completed in two years (04:01).

• Favourite Routes & Surprises: Highlights include the tiny H2 route and discovering how TfL buses go beyond London's borders (13:15).

• Planning & Logistics: Sophisticated tracking with spreadsheets and maps; trips range from short opportunistic rides to all-day adventures (08:27).

• Balancing Safety & Independence: Discussion on parental concerns and strategies for staying safe while exploring London (09:18).

• Time Management: How Ben fits his bus challenge around college and other commitments (11:13).

• Cost of the Challenge: Travels are mostly free thanks to a Zip card for under-18s, with occasional minimal costs (19:12).

• Community & Joys of the Journey: Making friends with bus drivers, the joy of seeing London overland, and fun family/friend involvement (15:32).

Notable Quotes

• "It makes me feel good. It makes me feel like I'm doing progress and I'm having fun doing it." – Ben Clowes (06:55)

• "The best way to see London, in my opinion, is by bus." – Ben Clowes (16:00)

• Super Loop Buses: New express routes that will soon be added, extending Ben's challenge even further (22:22).

• What's Next: Ben considers challenges abroad or in the travel industry after completing the TfL buses (5:10).

Thank you for listening to "Kerrie: That's Life…Or Is It?" Stay curious and keep exploring!