[4][5] Route 205 was introduced as part improvements in preparation for the introduction of London congestion charge in February 2003.

A route 705, linking stations on the southern section of the Circle Line, was also created but later withdrawn.

[6] It was extended from Whitechapel to Mile End tube station on 16 June 2007, and was converted into 24-hour service at the same time.

[6] On 31 August 2013, the night service on this 24 hour route was withdrawn and replaced by night bus route N205,[8] the existing night-time services on the 205 was simply re-numbered as N205 and extended to Leyton, Downsell Road via Stratford.

Upon being re-tendered the route was retained by Stagecoach London with a new contract to commence on 30 August 2014 with new Alexander Dennis Enviro400Hs.