Irish Afternoon Tea on 1960s Vintage Bus in Dublin

Irish Afternoon Tea on 1960s Vintage Bus in Dublin: A Delightful Mix of Scenic Views, Savory Snacks, and Vintage Charm

A trip to Dublin isn’t complete without experiencing the city’s vibrant streets and historic sights, but what if you could do so while enjoying a traditional afternoon tea on a restored vintage bus? For around $98, this 1.5-hour tour offers a unique way to see Dublin’s highlights while indulging in delicious sandwiches, cakes, and pastries—served right on a lovingly preserved 1960s Routemaster double-decker.

What we love about this experience is how it combines scenic city views with tasty treats and engaging stories. Sitting comfortably upstairs, you’ll get to watch Dublin drift past your window—passing landmarks like Christ Church, Trinity College, and Phoenix Park—without the hassle of walking or navigating busy streets. The guides, especially the friendly hosts, add warmth and local insight, making the journey as informative as it is charming.

A potential consideration is the limited dietary options and the fact that the tour is semi-guided, so if you’re looking for a deeply historical or fully narrated experience, you might find it a bit light on detailed commentary. But for those wanting a relaxed, social outing with good food and great views, it hits the mark perfectly.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy light sightseeing combined with good company and quality food. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with a group, seeking something different from the usual walking tours, or want a fun, memorable way to see Dublin on a rainy day.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Combines afternoon tea with a scenic, city-wide tour on a vintage bus.
• Comfortable Ride: Fully restored 1960s Routemaster bus offers a nostalgic and smooth journey.
• Delicious Food: Freshly made sandwiches, cakes, and pastries served onboard, with special attention to quality.
• Informative and Friendly Guides: Hosts share stories and insights with warmth, making the experience personable.
• Great Views: Pass iconic sights like Trinity College, Christ Church, Phoenix Park, and more while enjoying your meal.
• Ideal for Groups: Limited to 36 travelers, making it intimate enough for friendly chats and personalized service.

A Detailed Look at the Irish Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

A Vintage Bus Journey with a Tasty Twist

The core of this experience is the fully restored 1960s Routemaster double-decker, affectionately called Pauline. We found the bus charming—an authentic piece of Dublin’s transit history that adds a nostalgic touch to your sightseeing. The upstairs seating area, where most of the action happens, offers a panoramic view of Dublin’s streets through large windows, making it perfect for watching the city unfold.

The tour starts at Stephen’s Green, a lush, centrally located park that’s a Dublin icon. From there, the bus meanders through the city, passing sights like Grafton Street, O’Connell Street, and Wood Quay. We appreciated how the route was thoughtfully designed to cover Dublin’s core attractions, giving us a broad sense of the city’s layout and architecture.

The Food: More Than Just a Snack

What sets this tour apart is the onboard afternoon tea service. Freshly prepared, the menu includes coronation chicken, plowman’s pickle brioche buns, red velvet cake, raspberry and vanilla choux pastries, and other treats. Several review comments praised the quality and deliciousness of the food, with one guest describing it as “so comprehensive and the food was delicious too.” The portions are generous enough to keep everyone satisfied without feeling overwhelmed, and the presentation is charming, matching the vintage vibe.

Guests are encouraged to bring their appetite, and most reviews agree that the treats are worth the price. The experience is more than just a sightseeing tour; it’s a social, food-filled event that transforms a simple city drive into a memorable outing.

Guides and Stories: Light, Friendly, and Informative

While not a fully narrated tour, the guides share favorite Dublin stories and insights, adding a layer of local flavor. Many reviews mention how friendly and knowledgeable the hosts are, making the experience welcoming and personable. One reviewer highlighted Orla as making the tour even more fun, showing how the guides contribute to the overall enjoyment.

Scenic Highlights Along the Route

As the bus glides through the city, you’ll see Dublin’s georgian architecture and historic sites. The route covers St. Stephens Green, Christ Church, Trinity College, Phoenix Park, and O’Connell Street, giving you a broad overview of Dublin’s rich architecture and lively streets. The windows provide great opportunities for photos, especially as the bus passes iconic landmarks.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 36 travelers, the group remains intimate enough for friendly chats and personalized service. Several reviews mention how the staff made everyone feel comfortable and engaged, creating a warm atmosphere that complements the leisurely pace of the tour.

Practical Details

• Meeting point: Stephen Court near St. Stephen’s Green
• Start time: 4:00 pm
• Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes
• Price: $98.30 per person, offering good value considering the food, transport, and local insights
• Reservation: Book 51 days in advance on average, so plan ahead to secure your spot
• Accessibility: The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with food restrictions should communicate their needs beforehand

The Value of This Experience

While $98 may seem steep for a short tour, it’s important to consider what’s included. You’re paying for a unique vintage transport experience, the delicious, freshly made food, and the chance to see Dublin from a comfortable, scenic perch. Many reviews note the excellent quality of both the food and the friendly service, suggesting it’s a worthwhile splurge for those looking for a memorable, relaxed way to enjoy Dublin.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who value authentic, relaxed experiences over fast-paced sightseeing. It’s perfect for food lovers, groups, or those seeking a fun twist to their Dublin visit. If you enjoy stories and local lore, the guides’ friendly approach will enrich the journey. It’s also a great choice if you’re traveling on a rainy day or prefer to avoid lots of walking—this is a light, scenic tour from start to finish.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, this tour is designed to be family-friendly and appropriate for most travelers, as long as you enjoy food and sightseeing from a comfortable seat.

What should I do if I have food allergies or dietary restrictions?
You should inform the tour provider in advance. The description notes that guests need to communicate any restrictions, so they can accommodate your needs if possible.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity that doesn’t take up your entire afternoon.

Where do we meet for the tour?
The starting point is at Stephen Court near St. Stephen’s Green. The exact address will be on your confirmation voucher.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour begins, ensuring flexibility if your travel plans shift.

Is this a guided tour with detailed commentary?
It’s a semi-guided experience—expect some stories and insights from your hosts, but plenty of time to relax, chat, and enjoy the views.

Will I be able to take photos?
Absolutely. The large windows and open upper deck provide excellent photo opportunities of Dublin’s streets and landmarks.

To sum it up, the Irish Afternoon Tea on a vintage bus offers a charming way to see Dublin that combines historic transport, scenic views, and delicious food. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy light, social experiences and want to enjoy Dublin’s sights without the hustle of walking or the formality of traditional tours. Friendly guides, stunning vistas, and tasty treats make this a memorable addition to any Irish itinerary—perfect for friends, families, or couples looking for a relaxed, authentic experience.