The rabbit man, the wizard driver, and the boxes of chickens – memories of the legendary Magic Bus

Manchester: It was a wild ride, literally! The Magic Bus was the go-to for late-night adventures and cheap fares. It was a staple for students and locals alike.

But now, it’s gone. The iconic routes like the 142, 143, and 147 have been absorbed into the Bee Network, losing their unique charm.

Gone are the colorful wizard designs, replaced by the standard yellow buses. Sure, the new system promises easier fares and better connections, but it just isn’t the same.

The Magic Bus first hit the streets in 1996, quickly becoming a favorite with its £1 fares. It was a lifeline for many, especially those living along Wilmslow Road.

People are reminiscing about the quirky characters who rode the bus. Like the guy with the rabbits! He’d pull them out of his bag and set them on the seat next to him.

And let’s not forget the ‘man with the chickens’ who always had a box of live birds. Those memories are what made the Magic Bus special.

Social media is buzzing with nostalgia. “RIP Magic Bus,” one user said, recalling the good times. Early-morning rides were often a party, with music and laughter filling the air.

There were even games, like cramming as many people as possible on the backseat. It was all in good fun, and everyone had a story to tell.

Drivers got in on the fun too. Many remember the festive spirit when they dressed as Santa during the holidays. And who could forget ‘Wizard Wednesdays’? Drivers wore wizard costumes to raise money for charity.

Even former drivers have shared their fond memories. They loved the energy and the packed buses. It was a unique experience that many will miss.

Though the Magic Bus may have vanished from the streets, it will always hold a special place in the hearts of Mancunians.