London Tootbus Hop on Hop off Bus Tour and Thames River Cruise

If you’re looking for an easy, flexible way to see London’s highlights, the Tootbus Hop-on Hop-off Tour paired with a Thames River cruise offers a blend of land and water views that captures the city’s essence. For around $47, you get a 1-, 2-, or 3-day pass, giving you ample time to explore at your own pace, with multiple routes that crisscross the city. From the majestic Buckingham Palace to the historic Tower of London, this experience promises a comfortable, accessible way to tick off major landmarks.

What we love about this tour is its flexibility—you can hop off at any stop to wander or snap photos, then catch the next bus when you’re ready. The app feature that tracks buses in real time is a real help when trying to avoid long waits. Another highlight is the Thames River cruise, which offers a refreshing vantage point of the city’s skyline and iconic bridges—often with lively commentary that gives the sights some context.

A potential drawback is the inconsistency in bus frequency, as some reviews mention long waits or crowded buses, especially during busy times. Plus, the audio commentary has received mixed feedback, with some finding it lacking detail or syncing poorly with stops. Still, for those who value seeing the city from both land and water without the stress of navigation, this tour remains a solid choice—especially for first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule.

If you enjoy open-top sightseeing and want to get a panoramic sense of London’s sights with the flexibility to customize your route, this tour is ideal. It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with family, thanks to the bespoke children’s commentary and the chance to combine bus and boat experiences in one package.

Key Points

• Flexible multi-day options allow you to tailor your sightseeing schedule
• Real-time bus tracking enhances convenience and reduces waiting
• The combination of land and water views offers a comprehensive perspective of London
• Many stops are strategically placed near top attractions like Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and Buckingham Palace
• The river cruise provides a relaxing and scenic alternative perspective on the city
• Some reviews highlight bus frequency issues, so planning extra time for waits is wise

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

If you’re considering the London Tootbus Hop-on Hop-off combined with a Thames cruise, here’s what to expect based on detailed observations and genuine traveler feedback.

The Itinerary and Stops

The route is extensive, covering major landmarks from Westminster to Kensington, with stops that place you right at the doorstep of sights like Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace.

Starting at Coventry Street, you’ll have a bird’s-eye view of the bustling West End, with the chance to hop off near theaters or shopping districts. From there, riding through iconic areas like Trafalgar Square, Parliament Square, and the Westminster Pier, you’ll admire the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and the London Eye. The stops near Tower Hill and Tower Bridge allow for close-up visits to historic sites and the Tower of London.

The routes also extend into the neighborhoods of Kensington and Notting Hill, with stops near Kensington Palace and the Notting Hill Gate area, offering a more relaxed, upscale vibe of London. The tour then loops back through central areas, giving you a rundown.

What Does the Tour Feel Like?

Travelers report that the double-decker buses are comfortable and offer panoramic open-top views, especially valuable on sunny days. The audio commentary is intended to provide background info, but feedback suggests it sometimes doesn’t sync perfectly or lacks depth, especially at certain stops. Despite this, many appreciate the friendly staff and the convenience of hopping on and off as they explore.

The Thames River Cruise: An Extra Perspective

The cruise is a highlight for many. It’s a relaxing break from bus rides, giving you a different angle on landmarks like the London Eye, Houses of Parliament, and the Millennium Bridge. The crew’s commentary adds some informative flair, and the live narration is often praised for being engaging.

Real Traveler Experiences

While some reviews mention bus delays—waiting over 30 to 60 minutes—others have found the buses to be frequent enough and less crowded than other services. For example, one traveler notes, “It’s the best way to get around London. We loved it,” despite occasional waits. Conversely, others warn that bus frequency can be inconsistent, so patience might be needed during peak times.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Great coverage of London’s major sights
– Flexibility to hop on and off at your convenience
– Real-time bus tracking via app
– The river cruise offers a scenic, stress-free way** to see the city
– Good value for the price, especially when combined into multi-day passes

Cons:
– Some reports of long waits or bus overcrowding
– The audio commentary can be hit or miss for detail and synchronization
– No onboard restroom, which may matter during longer days
– Limited food and drink options on board, requiring planning

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits first-time visitors wanting a broad, flexible overview of London without the hassle of navigating public transit or booking multiple tours. It’s particularly appealing for families, thanks to the kid-friendly commentary and easy hop-on hop-off format. If you’re a photo enthusiast, the open-top buses provide excellent opportunities to snap stunning cityscapes.

Travelers on a tight schedule should note that waiting times can vary; planning for extra time or choosing less busy times might improve your experience. For those who value a scenic water perspective, the Thames cruise is a delightful addition. Conversely, if you’re seeking in-depth guided tours or exclusive access, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

The Tootbus Hop-on Hop-off combined with a Thames River cruise offers a cost-effective, flexible way to see London. It’s ideal for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground without the stress of planning individual tickets or navigating public transport. The scenic cruise adds an extra dimension, making it feel less like a busy bus ride and more like a leisurely sightseeing day.

While it has some variability in service quality—as with any large city tour—many visitors find it valuable and enjoyable, especially given the multiple routes and multi-day options. If you’re looking for an easy, convenient way to get your bearings and capture some iconic London shots, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the entire tour last?
The combined experience lasts approximately 3 hours if you do the full route, but your actual time depends on how often you hop on and off the buses and whether you include the Thames cruise.

Can I buy a ticket for just one day?
Yes, you can choose a 1-day pass, but many travelers prefer the 2- or 3-day options for more flexibility and to see more without rushing.

Is the Thames River cruise included in the ticket price?
Yes, your ticket includes a hop-on hop-off Thames River cruise, allowing you to explore London’s skyline from the water at your own pace.

How do I know where to catch the bus?
Use the Tootbus app to see real-time bus locations and find the stops closest to your location. The stops are well-marked and conveniently situated near major attractions.

Are there any facilities onboard?
No, there are no restrooms on the buses, so plan ahead if you might need one.

What’s the experience like during peak hours?
Bus frequency can sometimes be inconsistent—some travelers report waiting 30 minutes or more during busy times, so patience is advised.

Can I take the tour with children?
Absolutely. The bespoke children’s commentary and the family-friendly route make it suitable for kids.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most stops are accessible, but check with the operator if you have specific needs, as the buses are double-deckers and may have limited access.

What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and a water bottle. If you plan to hop off and explore, a backpack with essentials is helpful.

In summary, for anyone wanting to combine sightseeing, flexibility, and scenic water views without breaking the bank, the Tootbus Hop-on Hop-off with Thames cruise provides a practical, enjoyable way to experience London’s highlights. While service inconsistencies can occur, many find it a valuable, stress-free way to get their bearings on a first visit or to relax and enjoy a city they already love.