London Afternoon Tea Bus and Panoramic Tour on Lower Deck

London Afternoon Tea Bus and Panoramic Tour on Lower Deck

Imagine cruising through London’s bustling streets on a classic double-decker bus, with delicious finger sandwiches, scones, and cakes in hand, all while soaking in some of the city’s most famous sights. For just over an hour and a half, this unique blend of sightseeing and afternoon tea offers a charming way to see London from a different perspective. At a price of around $67, it’s a surprisingly good deal, especially considering the included Prosecco or soft drinks.

What we love about this experience is how it combines the visual thrill of London’s landmarks—from Buckingham Palace to the London Eye—with the relaxing pleasure of a traditional high tea. The lower deck seating provides a cozy, intimate setting with great views, making it easier to focus on the sights rather than the traffic. Plus, the friendly staff seem to add a welcoming touch that makes the experience feel more personal.

However, a couple of considerations might influence your decision. Some reviews mention loud music and lack of narration, which could detract if you’re hoping for a detailed guided experience. Also, restroom access is not available onboard, so plan accordingly if that’s a concern for you. This tour best suits guests who want to combine sightseeing with a charming, informal teatime — especially if you enjoy a relaxed pace and a fun, social atmosphere.

If you’re after a lighthearted way to see London’s highlights while enjoying delicious treats, this tour can be just right. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate informal outings, want a memorable photo opportunity, or are looking for a bit of indulgence amidst sightseeing.

Key Points

• Unique experience combining sightseeing on a double-decker bus with afternoon tea
• Great views from the lower deck of landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey
• Value for money with included food, drinks, and panoramic views
• Limited narration—music and lack of guided commentary may reduce the educational element
• No restrooms aboard—perfect to plan accordingly
• Ideal for relaxed social outings and those who enjoy a casual, fun atmosphere

A Detailed Look at the London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

This tour offers a surprisingly charming way to see London. Starting just a short walk from Victoria Station, it’s easy to access, and the initial check-in is straightforward. The departure point at Bulleid Way is conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible whether you’re coming from the city center or a nearby hotel.

The Itinerary and Sightseeing Stops

The core of this experience is the 90-minute scenic ride around central London, but what exactly will you see? The route takes you past some of the most iconic landmarks: Buckingham Palace, where you might imagine yourself as part of the Royal Guard; the Coca-Cola London Eye, offering sweeping views of the city’s skyline; Trafalgar Square, with its historic statues and fountains; and Westminster Abbey, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Each of these stops offers a visual feast, and since the bus is a double-decker, you get an excellent vantage point. As one reviewer noted, the views from the lower deck are especially good, providing a cozy and accessible way to admire the city’s grandeur without the crowd up top.

Food and Beverage Offerings

The star of the tour is, of course, the afternoon tea service. The menu includes homemade finger sandwiches—ranging from classic smoked salmon and cream cheese to hummus with falafel—and an assortment of mini pastries and desserts. The scones with clotted cream and jam are described as the highlight for many, giving that true British twist.

Most guests find the food to be delicious and plentiful. Staff members are friendly and welcoming, creating a relaxed environment. You’re also offered a glass of Prosecco or a soft drink, which adds a celebratory touch. One review mentions that additional drinks need to be ordered in advance, so it’s worth planning if you want more than the included drinks.

Views and Atmosphere

The views from the bus are generally praised, especially from the lower deck. The experience is designed to be more about visual enjoyment than detailed narration, which some travelers find refreshing. However, a few reviews mention that lack of guided commentary can be disappointing for visitors hoping to learn more about the sights. One traveler expressed that it would be nicer if a guide shared more about the landmarks, rather than just music playing in the background.

The Experience and Group Size

The shared seating arrangement means you might have to share tables with other guests, which can be fun or awkward depending on your company. The bus can carry up to 32 travelers, keeping the group relatively intimate but lively. Guests often mention the friendly attitude of the staff and the relaxed pace as highlights.

Practical Aspects and Considerations

A few practical points are worth noting. No restrooms are onboard, so hydrate carefully beforehand. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to secure your preferred seating on the lower deck, as seats are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The route can change due to traffic, which might slightly alter what you see or how long it lasts.

Because the tour is un-guided in terms of commentary, it’s mostly a visual experience with some delicious food. If you’re someone who enjoys walking tours with detailed narrations, this may not meet your expectations. Also, children under 5 aren’t permitted, and 13 and 15-year-olds need to be accompanied by an adult.

What Do the Reviews Say?

Overall, reviews are fairly balanced, with many guests praising the delicious food and friendly staff. Several mention it as a great way to relax and enjoy the sights with a treat in hand. For example, one traveler called it a “perfect for an afternoon” that combines sightseeing and good food.

Conversely, some reviews highlight disorganization, poor food quality, or lack of narration as drawbacks. One negative review specifically pointed out loud music and a disorganized service, which can spoil the ambiance. But even among less favorable reviews, many still appreciated the overall experience as a fun, informal outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy casual sightseeing and are looking for a lighthearted, social outing. It’s ideal if you want to combine visual impressions of London’s landmarks with some delicious British treats. If you’re interested in guided commentary or detailed history—you might find the lack of narration disappointing.

It’s also a good fit for groups or couples seeking a romantic or fun afternoon, especially if you enjoy sipping Prosecco while taking in the scenery. But if you’re more of a history buff or need a restroom on board, you might want to consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 are not allowed, and those aged 15 or under must be accompanied by an adult. It’s a relaxed environment, but mainly geared towards older children and adults.

What’s included in the price?
You get afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, scones, mini desserts, and a choice of Prosecco or soft drinks. The tour itself takes about 90 minutes.

Can I choose a specific seat or menu?
Seats on the lower deck are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. You can confirm your menu choice (general or vegetarian) at least 72 hours before the tour, but specific seating preferences aren’t guaranteed.

Is there a guide explaining the sights?
No, the tour does not include a live guide or narration. The emphasis is on the visual experience and enjoying the food.

Are there restrooms onboard?
No, there are no toilets on the bus, so plan accordingly before boarding.

What if I am late or need to cancel?
Arriving at least 15 minutes early is recommended. Cancellation is free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Late cancellations or no-shows cannot be refunded.

How long does the tour last?
The scheduled duration is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, but traffic conditions might extend the trip slightly.

Final thoughts

This London Afternoon Tea Bus and Panoramic Tour offers a charming way to see key landmarks while indulging in a classic British experience. It’s especially appealing for those who value visual impressions over detailed commentary, enjoying a relaxed atmosphere with delicious food in hand. The lower deck seating and friendly staff make it a cozy, memorable outing in the heart of London.

For travelers seeking an entertaining, social way to take in London’s sights—perhaps with friends, family, or a romantic partner—this tour delivers a delightful combination of views and treats. While it might not satisfy those craving deep historical insights or luxury amenities, it does excel as a light, fun, and reasonably priced experience that captures a bit of Britain’s tradition with a modern twist.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a relaxed, enjoyable afternoon with great views and good food, this tour is worth considering. Just arrive early, keep expectations in check about narration, and prepare to enjoy a memorable and tasty journey through London.