London: Classic Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

London: Classic Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers a charming mix of sightseeing and indulgence, all from the comfort of a classic double-decker bus. For around 1.5 hours, you’ll glide through the heart of London, passing major landmarks like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Downing Street while savoring a traditional High Tea. Priced reasonably, this tour provides a delightful way to combine two quintessentially British experiences—sightseeing and afternoon tea—without having to move from your seat.

What we love about this experience is how it transforms a simple sightseeing trip into something cozy and memorable. The delicious food and drinks are thoughtfully served, with many reviewers mentioning the generous portions and tasty cakes, sandwiches, and excellent teas. Also, the relaxed atmosphere—with music and the chance to sit back on a comfortable, decorated bus—makes this a perfect treat for families, friends, or even a romantic afternoon outing.

One potential consideration is the outdated commentary some travelers mention, which can make the tour feel a bit less current. Also, the visibility and audibility of the narration might be limited at times, especially if the bus gets crowded or noisy. It’s not ideal for those who want a detailed historical guide, but for many, this is more about the fun and food than a deep dive into London’s history.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a light-hearted, social experience that combines sightseeing with a traditional British meal. It works well if you’re short on time, want a memorable photo-op, or simply want to enjoy London’s sights from a cozy vantage point. Families with older children, groups of friends, or couples seeking a special afternoon will find this a charming outing.

Key Points

• Unique combination of sightseeing and afternoon tea in one experience
• Comfortable double-decker bus with festive decor and good ambiance
• Delicious food and drinks, with a range of teas, sandwiches, and sweets
• Great views of iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Hyde Park
• A relaxed, social atmosphere with music and limited narration
• Potential limitations: outdated commentary, no onboard toilets, limited top deck availability

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and Sights

This tour starts at Victoria Coach Station, a central point easy for most visitors to reach. Once onboard, you’ll settle into a decorated, comfortable double-decker bus, which many reviews describe as cozy and festive, especially around the holidays or with a bit of seasonal decor. The route takes you past some of London’s most recognizable landmarks, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.

Some of the highlights include Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and the scenic St James’s Park. As you cruise along, your driver will maneuver through the busy streets, giving you a chance to savor London’s vibrant cityscape without the hassle of walking or navigating public transport. The bus also passes notable spots like Hyde Park, The Royal Albert Hall, and Marble Arch, giving a well-rounded tour of central London.

Food and Drink

The heart of this experience is the afternoon tea service. Many reviews praise the generous portions—a mix of delicate sandwiches, sweet cakes, and pastries—all served on traditional tiered stands. The tea selection is notable, allowing a variety of options, including herbal and classic blends.

Staff members are frequently described as helpful and attentive, ensuring you’re comfortable and refilling your beverage as needed. Some reviews mention that the food exceeded expectations, with some calling it exceptional and delicious. The inclusion of refills and the ability to sample different teas adds to the value, especially given the overall price.

Atmosphere and Commentary

The music and festive decorations contribute to a cheerful, laid-back vibe. The narration, offered via an audio guide, provides context about the sights, though some reviews note it can feel a bit outdated—mentioning Prince Harry still living at Kensington Palace, for example. As the commentary isn’t continuous, it leaves room for socializing and enjoying the scenery.

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Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, making it ideal for a relaxed afternoon activity. The check-in process at Victoria Coach Station involves finding the correct gate, marked with “Brigit’s bakery afternoon tea bus tour,” which can be a bit confusing if you’re not early. The tour ends back at the starting point, so no additional transport is needed.

While the bus is decorated to enhance the experience, availability of the top deck isn’t guaranteed, and some travelers—especially those with mobility issues—should note that only foldable wheelchairs are permitted, and there are no onboard toilets.

Value for Money

For the price, many travelers feel this tour offers good value. The combination of sightseeing, good food, and a cozy atmosphere makes it a memorable experience. Several reviews mention that the food quality and service exceeded expectations, and many would gladly do it again.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience really suits those who enjoy a relaxed, social vibe—families with children over 5, groups of friends, or couples celebrating a special occasion. It’s also perfect if you’re seeking an easy way to see London’s sights without the walking or crowded streets. However, if you’re after in-depth historical commentary or have specific dietary restrictions like coeliac disease or nut allergies, you might find the experience less tailored to your needs.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a fun, light-hearted way to enjoy London’s landmarks, combined with a delicious afternoon tea, this tour hits the mark. It’s not about deep history or expert narration but about creating a memorable, social experience in a picturesque setting. The delicious food, friendly staff, and great views make it a worthwhile treat, especially during festive seasons or a rainy day when you want to stay dry but still see the city.

For those who value comfort, good food, and a bit of whimsy, this tour offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle, blending sightseeing with a traditional British pastime. Just be prepared for some outdated commentary and limited top deck views, and you’ll have a charming afternoon in London’s most iconic locations.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 5 years old are generally welcome. Keep in mind there are no toilets onboard, and children should be able to sit comfortably for 1.5 hours.

Can I bring my pet?
Pets are not allowed on the bus, so this experience is best suited for humans only.

Is the bus accessible for wheelchairs?
Only foldable wheelchairs are permitted, and you should mention your needs when booking.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Vegetarian, pescatarian, halal, vegan, and gluten-free options are available—please specify your requirements at booking. Coeliac and nut-free options are not guaranteed.

What should I do if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The process is straightforward through the booking platform.

Does the tour include a detailed commentary?
It includes an audio guide, but some reviews find it somewhat outdated. The narration is intermittent, allowing for socializing and sightseeing.

What is the duration of the tour?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Where do I meet the tour?
At Victoria Coach Station, near the gate marked “Brigit’s bakery afternoon tea bus tour.” Arrive early to avoid confusion.

Is there a restroom on the bus?
No, there are no toilets onboard, so plan accordingly.

What is the route like?
The bus covers central London, passing key sights, parks, and historic landmarks, providing excellent photo opportunities and scenic views.

In the end, this London: Classic Afternoon Tea Bus Tour combines the charm of a vintage double-decker with the pleasure of a traditional tea, making it a refreshing way to see the city differently. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a cozy way to enjoy London’s sights, it’s a charming and tasty choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: