Buckingham Palace and Vintage Bus Tour of London

Buckingham Palace and Vintage Bus Tour of London: A Practical Look

A quick snapshot of this tour shows it’s an inviting way to see some of London’s most iconic sights in one manageable package. For $59, you get roughly five and a half hours of sightseeing that combines classic transportation with a chance to peek inside Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms — a rare experience as they are only open to the public for three months each year.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of perspectives: riding aboard a vintage Routemaster bus offers an authentic, open-top experience, giving you panoramic views, while the Thames River cruise provides a relaxing way to see the city’s skyline from the water. Plus, walking up to Buckingham Palace to explore the luxurious State Rooms adds a regal touch to the day.

On the flip side, some travelers noted that the scheduling can be a bit tight — with a few hours break between parts and some days when the bus might switch to a closed top due to weather. This tour is best suited for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of London’s landmarks without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. If you’re keen on a comprehensive, value-packed experience, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Multiple Sights in One Day: Combines bus, river cruise, and walking tour for a well-rounded overview.
• Historical & Iconic Stops: Includes Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, and more.
• Authentic Transportation: Vintage Routemaster bus adds charm and good photo opportunities.
• Access to Buckingham Palace State Rooms: Limited opening, making this a special chance to see royal opulence.
• Expert Guide: Provides insider facts and stories enhancing your understanding and enjoyment.
• Good Value: At $59, it offers a lot of sights and experiences packed into a half-day.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point & Overall Structure

The tour begins at Victoria Coach Station around 7:45 am. From there, you’ll meet your guide and hop aboard a classic red Routemaster bus — a symbol of London’s public transport. This open-top vehicle is not just a mode of transportation but also a moving photo opportunity. As we settled into our seats, the guide started sharing witty stories and historical tidbits, setting a lively tone for the day.

The bus route covers several major landmarks including Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Nelson’s Column. These are all recognizable sights, but what makes this approach appealing is the easy, unhurried viewing from the open deck, especially when compared to trying to see everything on foot or in a crowded bus.

The Landmark Tour

Our guide, whose engaging storytelling kept everyone interested, pointed out interesting facts like how Westminster Abbey has been the coronation church since 1066, and the history behind Nelson’s Column. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of each location, making the sights more meaningful.

While the bus ride gives a good overview, some reviews mentioned that the city can be quite busy, and the route can be affected by traffic, so the timing might vary slightly. Still, the flexibility of the open-top bus allows for quick stops and photo opportunities.

Thames River Cruise

After about an hour on the bus, we disembarked at the Tower of London and then boarded a scenic boat cruise along the Thames. This 30-minute journey offers a relaxed view of London’s skyline, highlighting landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye.

Travelers often praise this part as a highlight. One reviewer mentioned, “The cruise was mostly a waste because it was rushed,” but most found it a lovely, peaceful break with excellent photo opportunities. The cruise is included in the ticket price, making it a good value, and it’s a different perspective that complements the bus tour nicely.

Buckingham Palace & the State Rooms

The final leg takes you to Buckingham Palace, where you’ll explore the State Rooms during their limited three-month opening. You walk with your guide to the entrance, and while guides don’t go inside with you, you’ll receive a pre-booked ticket to enter independently. Inside, you’ll see sumptuous furnishings, glittering chandeliers, and priceless royal treasures.

The reviews highlight how stunning the State Rooms are, with one mentioning, “The palace was amazing, and the changing of the guard was so dramatic.” Be aware that photography and filming are not permitted inside, which some travelers found a bit disappointing, but understandable given the Royal Collection’s value.

Flexibility & Timing

The tour schedule includes a two-hour visit at Buckingham Palace, starting around 2:30 pm. This allows you to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. The morning part ends with enough time to explore on your own afterward or continue your London adventure.

Some reviewers pointed out that the schedule can leave a few hours between activities, which may require you to plan accordingly. One suggested that it’s a good idea to have a flexible plan for that break — perhaps a café or a quick stroll in nearby St. James’s Park.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour is limited to 50 travelers, fostering a more intimate atmosphere. The vintage bus is open-topped, which is great for sightseeing but means you should be prepared for rain or shine. Some reviews mentioned that the bus may switch to a closed top if the weather turns sour, so packing a raincoat is wise.

Cost & Value

At $59, this tour offers excellent value given the combination of transportation, sightseeing, and the inside tour of Buckingham Palace. Comparing it with other options in London, it’s a cost-effective way to see a large chunk of the city’s highlights in one day.

Authentic Experiences & Insider Info

Our guide was praised for being knowledgeable, witty, and caring, making the tour both informative and fun. The stories about London’s history, royal traditions, and iconic landmarks added depth to the sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals to first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of London’s top sights. It’s perfect if you prefer a structured day with transportation and insider stories. It suits travelers with moderate physical fitness because of walking at Buckingham Palace and some standing outside landmarks, but it is manageable for most.

If you love authentic transportation experiences and enjoy photos from open-top buses, this tour delivers. It’s also well-suited for those who want to save time while soaking in multiple perspectives — land, water, and close-up views.

However, if you’re seeking a deep dive into specific sites or prefer to explore at your own pace, you might find this tour a bit rushed, especially with the scheduled time at Buckingham Palace.

Final Thoughts

This Buckingham Palace and Vintage Bus Tour of London offers a well-rounded, engaging way to see London’s main sights without breaking the bank. The combination of a classic double-decker ride, a scenic river cruise, and a chance to peek inside the Crown Jewels makes it a memorable experience.

The tour’s highlights—knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and good value—are what stand out for most travelers. It’s a fantastic way to introduce yourself to London, especially if time is limited or if you’re looking for a snapshot of the city’s most famous landmarks.

While some may find the schedule a little tight or the weather unpredictable, the overall experience balances fun, education, and convenience. For those wanting a structured, memorable introduction to London with a touch of regal glamour, this tour fits the bill.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most reviews don’t specify age restrictions, but the sightseeing and walking parts are manageable for older children, especially if they enjoy history and photos.

Do I need to print my ticket?
No, it’s a mobile ticket, so you can show it on your phone when you meet the guide.

What happens if it rains?
Because it’s an open-top bus, be prepared for rain. The bus may switch to a closed top if weather conditions worsen—just pack a raincoat or umbrella.

Is the Buckingham Palace tour guided?
No, guides are not permitted inside the State Rooms. You’ll be given a pre-booked ticket and an audio guide to explore on your own.

How long do I have at Buckingham Palace?
Approximately two hours, which is enough time to see the State Rooms and enjoy the surroundings.

Are the river cruise and bus tour included?
Yes, both are included in the $59 ticket price, making it good value.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 50 travelers, helping keep the experience intimate.

Is there a lunch break?
The tour ends with your free time at Buckingham Palace, so you can grab lunch afterward if you wish.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Victoria Coach Station and ends near Buckingham Palace Road in central London.

In the end, this tour provides a practical and lively way to see London’s highlights, especially if you’re eager to combine sightseeing with a taste of royal grandeur. It balances fun and education at a price that makes it accessible, perfect for travelers who want a taste of everything without the stress of planning every detail themselves.