The La Fée Bus, A Rolling Absinthe Icon
The La Fée Absinthe Bus is one of the most unique and recognisable symbols of the brand’s playful and unconventional spirit. Built from a classic 1960s Routemaster, this iconic double-decker has been transformed into a travelling absinthe experience, bringing La Fée to festivals, events, and city streets across the UK.
As every absinthian knows, one should never drink and drive, one should take the bus.
To learn more about the origins and revival of absinthe, explore the story of La Fée.
What Is the La Fée Bus?
The La Fée Bus is a vintage London Routemaster RM255, reimagined as a mobile absinthe venue. Painted in distinctive absinthe green and featuring the unmistakable La Fée eye branding, it has become a moving centrepiece at festivals, private events, and cultural gatherings.
Originally acquired to transport the La Fée team to events across the country, the bus quickly evolved into something far more memorable, a fully immersive absinthe experience on wheels.
The Upstairs Lounge Bar
La Fée Bus
Big Brother Charity Bash
La Fée Founders
Inside the La Fée Absinthe Bus
From the outside, the bus maintains its nostalgic 1960s charm. But step inside, and the experience becomes something entirely different.
Downstairs:
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Classic Routemaster seating for up to 28 passengers
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Traditional hop-on, hop-off layout inspired by vintage London transport
Upstairs:
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Fully equipped absinthe lounge bar
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Chrome bar stools and stylish interior
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High-quality Technics/Indigo sound system
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A relaxed social space designed for events and entertainment
The contrast between vintage exterior and modern lounge creates a unique atmosphere that perfectly reflects La Fée’s blend of tradition and innovation.
Guests can enjoy a range of La Fée Absinthe while relaxing in the upstairs lounge bar.
The La Fée Bus at Festivals and Events
Over the years, the La Fée Bus has appeared at a wide range of festivals, parties, and high-profile events, often becoming a standout attraction wherever it goes.
It has been spotted in locations such as: Piccadilly Circus, Brighton, Scotland, Vinopolis, London
The bus has also been featured in media and festival coverage, including appearances with MTV during live events.
The bus has played a role in celebrating absinthe culture at events such as World Absinthe Day.
Vinopolis London
Scotland
Piccadilly Circus
Brighton
The Famous Reading Festival Story
One of the most legendary appearances of the La Fée Bus took place at Reading Festival in 2000.
At the time, Bacardi held exclusive spirits sponsorship rights, meaning no competing brands were permitted inside the arena. However, the La Fée Bus found a creative way in doubling as the official transport for the band Black Box Recorder, which included La Fée director John Moore alongside Luke Haines and Sarah Nixey.
Once inside, the green Routemaster quickly became a focal point backstage. Parked alongside other artist vehicles, it transformed into a buzzing VIP lounge where musicians, artists, and industry figures gathered between sets.
During the weekend, members of the Black Eyed Peas were drawn to the bus’s unique presence. After being invited aboard, they spent time relaxing, enjoying La Fée cocktails, and even recording ideas inspired by the moment.
The bus became more than just transport it was a creative hub, a social space, and a symbol of La Fée’s rebellious and imaginative approach to absinthe culture.
Will.I.am & Black Eyed Peas
MTV use the bus during festival coverage
Where Has the La Fée Bus Been Seen?
The La Fée Bus has made appearances across the UK, often turning heads wherever it travels.
From busy city centres to festival fields, sightings have included:
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Brighton seafront
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Central London and Piccadilly Circus
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Major music festivals and private events
Its distinctive green design ensures it never goes unnoticed.
A Symbol of La Fée’s Spirit
The La Fée Absinthe Bus perfectly captures the essence of the brand, bold, unconventional, and rooted in both heritage and creativity.
It represents more than just a marketing vehicle. It is a celebration of absinthe culture, music, and the unexpected moments that happen when people come together.
The bus often creeps up on us here at the La Fée office…