A Brighton and Hove Bus route has been named as the second most scenic in the UK.

Research was carried out by analysing Instagram hashtags of 40 different bus routes throughout the country by insurance company SunLife.

It comes as no surprise to see the Brighton Buses’ 12 and 12a route picked among the most beautiful.

Although the research did not take into account celebrity vicar Richard Coles’ proclamation that it was the “best bus in the world”.

The route goes between Brighton and Eastbourne, following the coastline which provides beautiful views of the Downs to one side and sea views out the other.

Brighton and Hove Buses' 12 service (Image: Grassrootsgroundswell)

Mark Screeton, CEO of SunLife said: “Buses are a great way to get about and see the beautiful sites of the British coastline and countryside, especially in later life.

“There have been numerous studies which show that taking the bus leads to improved mental health, less isolation and improved safety.

“These bus routes allow you to experience breath taking scenery at close quarters, at a relaxing pace and often for free with an older person’s concessionary card.”

The highest rated route was the Coastliner 840 Transdev Bus which goes from Leeds and York to Whitby.

The 12 service passes through the coastal areas of Rottingdean, Saltdean, Peacehaven, through Newhaven and Seaford.

It then goes into the Cuckmere Valley and through the countryside to a stunning view of Eastbourne.

The top ten is as follows:

1. Coastliner 840 – Transdev Bus – Leeds and York to Whitby

2. Coaster 12 and 12a – Brighton and Hove Bus Company – Brighton to Eastbourne

3. Clyde Flyer 901-906 – McGills – Glasgow to Greenock and Largs

4. Toon Tour – Go North East – Newcastle and Gateshead

5. Route 36 – The Harrogate Bus Company – Leeds and Harrogate and Ripon

6. Route X46/X47 – East Yorkshire – Hull to Pocklington and York

7. Bluestar 1 – Bluestar – Lancaster to Kendal and Keswick – Southampton to Lymington

8. Lakes Connection 555 - Stagecoach in Cumbria – Lancaster to Kendal and Keswick

9. Bluestar 6 – Bluestar – Southampton to Lymington

10. Route 69 – Stagecoach South – Winchester to Bishops Waltham and Fareham

For more information on Sunlife, click here.