What happens when a bus full of over 60s hits the road?
Community, connection and chatter!
Yes, you heard that right. 30 strangers, all over 60, hopped on a bus for a day out around London. No, it wasn’t the start of a joke, but it sure felt like one, in the best way possible!
This April, we hosted a special bus tour. With 4 GCP staff and volunteers, a fantastic tour guide, and a skilled driver, the day was set up to be memorable, and it certainly was.
The entire bus tour was planned by our steering group. After feedback highlighted a desire for more fun, shared activities, they chose the idea of a bus tour. The planned every aspect, from the route and snacks to accessibility and risk assessments.
Their dedication and thoughtfulness were clear in the result. The tour was fully booked within 24 hours of being announced. It was a fantastic success, and a real testament to the group’s energy, creativity, and commitment.
Before the bus even arrived, something special happened. While waiting for the bus, which had accidentally gone to the wrong place and was rather late, the group began to chatter, sharing stories, smiles, and a few laughs over snacks and water handed out by the team.
People that may have never previously crossed paths began to connect. Turns out, sometimes all it takes is a little waiting time to break the ice.
Once on board, the group took part in a mindfulness activity that helped people arrive, settle in, and set the tone for the day. The tour guide brought London’s sights to life with fun facts and stories, making the experience engaging for everyone.
The bus passed famous places like St Paul’s Cathedral, Chancery Lane, Trafalgar Square, the Bank of England, and the London Eye. The tour guide shared interesting facts about each one, like how the Bank of England started, and stories about the Amphitheatre.
One participant said, “It’s been a delightful tour and a really good chance for us to learn something about the place we live. I’ve been googling this evening and Aldgate has so much history. I’m sure I will walk all the way back to the amphitheatre soon.”
The bus tour not only offered a beautiful way to explore the city but also created a safe space for people to connect. Sharing a meal together afterwards was another highlight, creating a sense of community.
Another said: “Thanks again for all your hard work and thoughtful arrangements. Especially the food and the yummy lunch which is better than the restaurants I have tried.."
This bus ride wasn’t just about sightseeing. It was about reminding us all how important connection is, especially for our mental health.
Often connection is something we may take for granted, a phone call with a loved one or a chat with our neighbours. But these pockets of interaction may be far and few between for some in our community. Often they may go hours, days or weeks with little to no interaction, creating a sense of isolation.
Sometimes all it takes is a smile, a meal shared together, or a day out to bring warmth. It’s the little things that we might think nothing of which can change the course of someone's day, their whole week, or even their life.
With Mental Health Awareness Week falling in May, we’re here to highlight how feeling connected, sharing stories, and spending time with others can be a real lifeline.
Feeling inspired by the power of connection on this special bus ride? You can keep the journey going:
Volunteer to help create more events that bring people together
Get involved in upcoming activities and make new friends
Donate to support our work connecting communities across East London
If you or someone you know is looking for local connection or a sense of community, here are some welcoming grassroots groups in Tower Hamlets and East London to explore: