Southcoast Motor Services

About us and our vehicle collection


Founded in 1915, the old ‘Southdown Motor Services’ company was a name synonymous with reliable and luxurious bus and coach travel in and around Sussex. Whilst the old Southdown is sadly no more, we are following in their tradition by offering a selection of our unique vintage buses and coaches for hire. Painstakingly restored to the highest standard, these fine vehicles will add a touch of class to any special occasion.


Our restoration group was formed in 1988 with the intention of saving and preserving buses and coaches from a golden age. After successfully obtaining a licence in 2000, we now operate some of our collection for the pleasure of others. Here you will find the current selection with a full description of the type and size of each bus or coach. For further information or to obtain a no obligation quote, please contact us and we will be happy to assist.


37 Seat, 1961 Southdown Coach

The 1961 coach

Inside the 1961 coach

Fleet number 1722

When delivered new in 1961, 1722 was used on nationwide tours and still features the original curved roof windows giving unparalleled views of the passing countryside. 1722 has 37 well spaced luxury coach seats with headrests. It has a large rear boot and side lockers for luggage or picnic hampers and the unusual curved-glass roof windows let the light flood in.!


The coach is ideal for slightly longer trips where passenger comfort is important - such as to a sporting event like the Epsom Derby or Glorious Goodwood. For smaller groups and wedding parties requiring more luxurious and intimate surroundings than provided by double-deck buses, this vehicle is a must. To obtain a quote or book this vehicle, please contact us.

Seat plan (pdf)

More pictures of 1722


69 Seat, 1964 Open-Top Southdown Bus

Fleet number 406

406 was built in 1964 as one of a batch of 25 convertible open/closed-top vehicles - the detachable roof making this is a particularly unusual bus. We operate 406 'open top' as we have other traditional 'closed top' buses available. The bus seats 69 in total, with 39 places on the upper deck and 30 on the lower.


It is the ideal vehicle for an exciting and unique outing and is also a firm favourite for shorter wedding journeys. May we suggest you consider limiting the size of your party to 30 people (lower deck capacity) to allow for any unexpected showers. Please contact us for a quote or to book this vehicle,

More pictures of 406


69 Seat, 1967 Traditional Southdown Bus

The lower saloon

The upper saloon

Fleet number 350

Built in 1967, bus 350 is quite revolutionary as the body manufacturer, with an eye to the future, introduced a new design with large side windows and a curved-glass front. These wider ‘Panoramic’ windows give an unparalleled view of the passing countryside, particularly from the upper deck. 350 is now truly unique, as it is the last surviving example of its type which is still available for public hire.


This bus has 69 seats in total, with 39 on the upper deck and 30 on the lower and is a firm favourite with groups and larger wedding parties.

Please bear in mind that bus 350 is 14½ feet high and not suitable for many country lanes or where height restrictions apply. You will need to consider your route very carefully, so do please contact us and we will be happy to assist you in this matter.

More pictures of 350


Important notes

Please note that our vehicles normally undergo restoration and refurbishment during the winter months and so are generally ONLY available late spring, through the summer months to mid-autumn.


Please also note that our vehicles were built in the 1960s and as such are not equipped to take mobility impaired people. We will, however, do our best to help as far as the law and practicalities allow.


Whilst our administrative address is in Croydon, our buses are based on the West Sussex coast. As a result, if any long distance empty running is involved this will be reflected in the quotation.


All vehicles are subject to availability, and we reserve the right to substitute a vehicle from our collection at short notice. In the unlikely event of this happening we would inform you immediately.


Southcoast Motor Services Ltd. A company registered in England - number 03678297.