Ghost Bus Tour of London

If you’re craving an evening that mixes history, legend, and a dash of theatrical fun, the Ghost Bus Tour of London might just be your ticket. For around $38.40 per person, you’ll hop aboard a classic 1960s Routemaster bus—with a Gothic twist—and weave through the city’s most haunted and notorious sites. With an approximate duration of 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, this tour offers a lively peek into London’s darker stories, blending real landmarks with ghostly tales.

What immediately draws us to this experience is the nostalgic charm of riding a vintage bus, combined with the promise of spine-tingling stories told by guides who know how to entertain. The passage by top attractions like St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London, and Fleet Street makes it a great way to see the city at night, especially if you prefer your sightseeing with a little extra flair.

A potential consideration is the variable nature of traffic in London, which can sometimes disrupt the flow or cause delays—something mentioned by travelers who faced cancellations or traffic snags. Also, this isn’t a full-on theatrical scare show; rather, it’s a storytelling experience peppered with jokes, spooky legends, and historical anecdotes.

This tour suits adults and older children who enjoy a mix of history, humor, and ghost stories. If you’re curious about London’s darker side but prefer a relaxed, fun atmosphere rather than a hardcore haunted house, this ride will serve you well.

Key Points

• Unique vintage transportation: Travel in a classic 1960s Routemaster bus with a Gothic vibe.
• Haunted London sites: Pass by iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and London Bridge.
• Engaging storytelling: Guides share spooky legends and lesser-known historical facts, often with humor.
• Flexible evening start times: Choose a start time that suits your evening plans.
• Moderate length: About an hour, making it a manageable addition to your sightseeing.
• Great for adults and teens: Enjoy a mix of dark history, humor, and light theatrics.

An In-Depth Look at the Ghost Bus Experience

The Vehicle and Atmosphere

Traveling in a vintage Routemaster bus instantly sets this tour apart. The bus itself has a nostalgic charm, and the Gothic twist adds an eerie aesthetic that amplifies the spooky vibe. Whether you’re seated upstairs or downstairs, you’ll find yourself peeking out at London’s lit-up streets, feeling like a ghostly passenger riding through history.

Travelers often mention the entertaining guide, who not only recounts haunted tales but does so with a lively, humorous touch. As one reviewer noted, “Ben was an absolute delight and the tour was so fun!” The guides seem to strike a good balance between fact and fun, making the experience accessible for a wide audience.

The Route and Landmarks

The tour starts at 8 Northumberland Ave, a central, easy-to-find meeting point near Trafalgar Square. From there, the bus winds through the city’s streets, offering views of London’s most prominent landmarks:

• Tower of London: Known for its grim history of executions and imprisonments, this site has seen its share of ghosts and legends. As you pass, you might imagine the spirits lingering in the shadows.
• Tower Bridge: An iconic symbol of London, but also a place entwined with stories of murder and secret histories.
• St. Paul’s Cathedral: Its grand dome hides stories of royal funerals and ghostly sightings.
• Westminster Abbey and Houses of Parliament: Both sites are fraught with tales of royal deaths, mysterious apparitions, and dark deeds.
• London Bridge: Famous for its gruesome history, with stories of executions and hauntings that have persisted over centuries.
• Southwark Cathedral and Fleet Street: Places associated with infamous characters like Sweeney Todd add a theatrical flavor.

The Tales and Legends

The storytelling is what makes this tour stand out. The guide shares both well-known and obscure legends, such as the Whitehall Mystery—a grisly unresolvable murder case—and the Black Dog of Newgate Prison, often cited as a harbinger of doom. Several reviews praise guides like Stan and Cedric for their energy, humor, and storytelling skills.

Many guests comment on the mix of humor and horror. One noted, “It’s more of an entertainment with some ghost stories,” which is a good way to describe the tone. The guide’s jokes and playful interactions with the audience add a fun, unpretentious feel—perfect for those who want spooky tales without the scare factor overwhelming the fun.

The Practical Side

The tour lasts just over an hour, making it a perfect short evening activity. It’s a mobile experience—tickets are digital, and the tour runs rain or shine. Because the tour is in English and can accommodate up to 54 travelers, it’s suited for larger groups, but with enough personal attention to keep the stories engaging.

You’ll want to arrive 20 minutes early to ensure you find your guide and settle in—traffic delays are a common complaint, and the tour cannot wait for late arrivals. Food and drinks aren’t included, but the meeting point is near many pubs and eateries to grab a quick bite before or after.

The Value for Money

At around $38.40, this tour offers a good price for a fun, theatrical experience that combines sightseeing with storytelling. Reviewers like Sinead appreciated the “special effects” and “brilliant guide,” which enhanced the spooky atmosphere. Others noted that it’s not a “ghost tour” in the traditional sense but more of an entertaining narrative ride.

Some travelers, however, expressed disappointment when the tour was canceled due to traffic or illness, and didn’t receive refunds promptly. So, it’s prudent to consider the possibility of cancellations, especially during busy times.

Who Should Book This?

If you’re a history buff who enjoys a twist of theatrical storytelling, you’ll find this tour highly enjoyable. It’s great for adults and teens who appreciate a little spooky fun mixed with fascinating facts. It’s not suited for those seeking a serious haunted house experience or a deep dive into London’s dark past—think of it more as a lighthearted, spooky comedy.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the Ghost Bus Tour of London offers a unique way to see the city at night while indulging in some of its most chilling stories. The vintage Routemaster adds a nostalgic touch, and the guides’ lively storytelling makes it a memorable experience. It’s a good value for those who want a short, fun, and slightly spooky evening adventure without the over-the-top theatrics of more intense haunted tours.

While traffic can sometimes be a hiccup, most guests leave with a smile and a new appreciation for London’s darker stories. If you’re curious about the city’s haunted corners but prefer a relaxed, humorous approach, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQs

Is the Ghost Bus Tour suitable for children?
This tour is generally best suited for adults and older children who can enjoy storytelling and humor. Younger children might find the spooky stories a bit too intense or not engaging enough.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, making it a manageable addition to your evening plans.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 8 Northumberland Ave near Trafalgar Square and returns to the same spot at the end of the ride.

Is there a dress code or special attire needed?
No special attire is required, but the Gothic theme of the bus adds to the ambiance. Dress comfortably for an outdoor, moving vehicle experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for a refund.

Are the guides experienced storytellers?
Yes, reviews consistently praise the guides, mentioning their energy and entertaining storytelling style.

Is the tour accessible for mobility-impaired travelers?
The information provided doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the provider directly for specific needs.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. The meeting point is near many eateries for your convenience.

What should I bring or prepare?
Bring a sense of humor and an appetite for London’s spooky stories. Arrive early and dress comfortably for the weather.

In summary, the Ghost Bus Tour of London offers a lively, atmospheric journey through the city’s darker legends, perfect for those who enjoy a blend of history, humor, and a dash of the macabre. Whether you’re local or a visitor, it’s a fun way to experience London’s night-time magic with a spooky twist.