Advertising on top of London buses is gaining serious momentum. Brands are exploring new outdoor formats that reach busy audiences across the capital. Rooftop ads sit in a league of their own. They turn the highest points of London’s bus network into a fresh media space that carries long sightlines and city wide visibility.
This format supports brands that want to advertise on London buses with a creative twist. It offers height, reach and novelty. With more than 5.5 million daily bus journeys, the rhythm of city movement makes rooftop ads a compelling choice for impact at scale.
Why Brands Are Moving Upwards
Brands choose bus rooftops for several reasons.
High visibility from elevated viewpoints
- Perfect for reaching offices above ground level
- Strong exposure near flats and balcony walkways
- Consistent visibility along raised road networks and bridges
Strong impact across central London
Traffic in the centre often moves slowly. This increases dwell time and makes rooftop ads even more effective. Locations such as Oxford Street, Waterloo, Holborn and Shoreditch offer concentrated footfall and heavy bus movement. These areas give brands time in front of audiences.
A creative space with instant stopping power
This format stands out because people do not expect ads on the roof of a vehicle. The novelty produces a reaction. The format attracts attention when seen from above.
Gymbox Shows How Rooftop Ads Spark Curiosity
Gymbox used a rooftop placement to promote its aerial classes. The message sat boldly on the top of a London bus. The campaign line “If You’re Reading This, You’re a Natural, Aerial Classes Available at Gymbox” played perfectly with the ad’s position. The creative was shared across social platforms when spotted from higher floors.
Gymbox has become a leader in aerial style fitness. It introduced a range of classes including Aerial Pilates, Aerial Yoga, Trapeze and the Cocoon sessions where participants chill out and relax in the comfort of the hammock Cocoon. Rory McEntee, Marketing Director at Gymbox, highlighted the thinking behind the placement. He explained that the feeling of suspension inspired the idea to place the advert on the roof. The placement connected the message with the product experience.
The concept offered a moment of surprise. It pushed the boundaries of outdoor media and showed how rooftop formats can deliver personality and conversation. This type of campaign supports a broader trend where brands want more than visibility. They want cultural impact.
The Advantages of Advertising on Top of Buses
Rooftop formats carry measurable benefits for brand visibility across London.
Fresh creative territory
Few formats deliver the same level of novelty. This helps brands break through visual clutter and command attention.
City wide reach along key routes
- Strong exposure along commuter corridors
- Consistent visibility in high density boroughs
- Ideal for multi zone coverage in a single campaign
Extended viewing angles
People see rooftop ads from offices, hotels, walkways, multi storey car parks and tourist buses. This widens the audience far beyond street level.
Social media ready creative
Unexpected placements prompt organic sharing. Gymbox achieved this naturally with its rooftop concept. This gives campaigns added value at no extra media cost.
Where Rooftop Ads Work Best
Central London office districts
Zones packed with tall buildings amplify this format. Viewers watch buses pass beneath them all day. Shoreditch, Aldgate, Victoria and Canary Wharf all offer strong potential.
Tourist heavy areas
Open top bus routes create the ideal sightline. Westminster, the South Bank and the West End remain some of the busiest visitor zones in Europe.
Residential high rise neighbourhoods
Areas with balcony blocks and dense housing give local brands consistent visibility. Rooftop ads stay within view of residents during regular bus movement.
Creative Tips For Rooftop Bus Advertising
Short headlines
Keep text minimal. People view this format from a distance. Clean, bold fonts perform best.
High contrast colours
Top down views require strong visual impact. Bright palettes cut through London’s skyline.
Clear product or message focus
Audiences see ads quickly. A tight message produces stronger recall and better brand association.
Consideration of aerial viewpoints
Think about offices, rooftop bars and elevated walkways. These sightlines should shape the creative direction.
Planning a Bold Rooftop Bus Campaign in London
If rooftop visibility is your next move, we can support you from planning to delivery. London Bus Advertising specialises in high impact formats across the entire bus network. Whether you choose bus sides, bus rears, full wraps, interiors or rooftops, we ensure your message reaches the right audiences. Speak to us today to get started.
FAQs
Why is rooftop advertising effective in London?
London has tall buildings, slow traffic and high footfall. These conditions give rooftop ads strong visibility and extended viewing time.
Can rooftop ads support a wider London bus advertising campaign?
Yes. Brands can run rooftop placements alongside bus sides, rears and full wraps for broader coverage.
Which brands benefit from this format?
Fitness, fashion, tech, entertainment and lifestyle brands can use this format to gain attention and spark conversation.