The BIG Bus Show
The BIG Bus Show was established in 2022 through the vision of Richard Ward, a local bus enthusiast from Hadleigh, Suffolk. Working in partnership with Stonham Barns, the aim was to create a new rally celebrating buses and coaches across the East Anglia region. From the outset, the show welcomed vehicles of all kinds—preserved, semi-preserved, and operational—reflecting the diversity of the bus and coach community.
The inaugural event took place on Sunday 14 August 2022, with 35 vehicles originally booked to attend. Despite exceptionally high temperatures exceeding 30 °C, more than 20 buses and coaches participated, delivering a successful and enjoyable first show that laid the foundation for future growth.
Later in 2022, Jamie Vendy of The Eastern Counties Bus Preservation Group approached Richard Ward to explore opportunities for collaboration and expansion. This led to a formal partnership agreement in January 2023 following a planning meeting at Stonham Barns. The 2023 show, held on Sunday 13 August, exceeded all expectations—welcoming over 80 vehicles and more than 1,000 visitors, effectively tripling the scale of the inaugural year.
In recognition of this success, it was agreed that The Eastern Counties Bus Preservation Group would assume full organisational responsibility for The BIG Bus Show, working alongside Richard Ward, who now serves as a Trustee of the charity. The show continues to uphold its commitment to accessibility and community engagement, including free entry for members of The Eastern Counties Bus Preservation Group.
Following further growth to 109 vehicles on site in 2024, the 2025 event marked another major milestone, with around 140 buses and coaches showcased at Stonham Barns. The expanded display featured a broad spectrum of historic and contemporary vehicles—from classic AEC Routemasters and Bristol models through to modern Volvo and Alexander Dennis examples.
With each successive year bringing increased participation and public attendance, The BIG Bus Show continues to strengthen its reputation as one of East Anglia’s fastest-growing transport heritage events.
The organisers remain grateful for the ongoing support of sponsors whose partnership helps sustain and develop the show:
Dans Coach Travel
TTC Diecast.com
Network Bus & Truck
RJ’s Auto Electricals
