London: Royal Tour with Afternoon Tea at the Rubens

If you’re visiting London and want a balanced mix of sightseeing, history, and a taste of British tradition, this tour offers a solid choice. Priced at around $173.76 per person and lasting about 5 hours, it combines a scenic drive through the city’s most famous landmarks with a regal afternoon tea at The Rubens at the Palace. Led by a knowledgeable blue badge guide, you’ll get a lively commentary on London’s highlights, topped off with the quintessential experience of afternoon tea overlooking the Royal Mews.

What we love about this experience is how it offers a relaxed yet comprehensive glimpse of London’s most celebrated sights, paired with the indulgence of a proper British tea service. The panoramic bus ride is comfortable, with Wi-Fi and USB charging, making it easy to enjoy the views without fuss. Plus, the tea at The Rubens is genuinely an upscale treat—delicious sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an inviting atmosphere.

A potential consideration is the tour’s reliance on punctual timing, especially for the afternoon tea reservation. As some reviews point out, the schedule can be a little tight, so being on time at each stop is key. Also, the tour doesn’t include entry to attractions, so if you’re eager to step inside places like Westminster Abbey or Buckingham Palace, you’ll need to plan those visits separately.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of guided sightseeing, storytelling, and a touch of luxury. It’s perfect for those who want to see the city’s highlights without the stress of navigating on their own, and it’s especially appealing if you’re keen on experiencing a classic British tradition like afternoon tea in historic surroundings.

Key Points

• Comprehensive overview: Covers key London sights like Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace.
• Guided commentary: Led by a professional blue badge guide who shares engaging stories.
• Comfortable transportation: Modern coach with Wi-Fi, USB charging, and personal headsets.
• Authentic experience: Afternoon tea at The Rubens at the Palace, overlooking the Royal Mews.
• Limited attraction entries: Tour doesn’t include entrance fees, so plan additional visits if desired.
• Timing matters: Be punctual—especially for the afternoon tea, which is booked at a specific time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at the Evan Evans kiosk located across from Gate 1 inside Victoria Coach Station. This spot is central and easy to find, especially if you’re staying nearby or arrive via train or underground. The coach itself is modern and spacious, equipped with Wi-Fi and USB ports—conveniences that make the roughly hour-long drive through London’s streets quite pleasant.

Your guide, often a blue badge guide with a wealth of local knowledge, sets the tone with lively commentary that balances historical facts and interesting stories. For many, this is a highlight—learning about London’s landmarks from someone who knows their history but can also share amusing anecdotes.

Scenic Bus Tour of London

The bulk of the tour is a scenic drive through Westminster, with stops at iconic sites like Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament**. The guide points out the key features and shares tidbits—like the odd fact that Buckingham Palace has been home to British monarchs since 1837 and hosts the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony.

While the bus offers fantastic views, it’s worth noting that, as one reviewer mentioned, the schedule can be tight. The one-hour drive includes the opportunity to see London’s skyline and historic districts without the crowds or fatigue of walking all day. The commentary is delivered via personal audio headsets, so even in a busy city environment, you’ll hear every detail.

Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard

The highlight for many is the stop at Buckingham Palace, where you may witness the Changing of the Guard—a spectacle of British tradition that happens on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday (subject to availability). Dressed in their iconic bearskin caps and scarlet tunics, the soldiers marching in unison evoke a sense of pageantry that’s truly emblematic of the UK.

This stop lasts around 1.5 hours, giving you enough time to soak in the atmosphere, take photos, and listen to your guide’s commentary about the royal residence, its history, and the ceremonial guard change. Some travelers, however, note that the timing can be unpredictable, especially since the ceremony isn’t daily, and the experience can be brief if you arrive late or if the ceremony is canceled.

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Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at the Palace

The final segment takes you to The Rubens at the Palace, a luxurious hotel just steps from the Royal Mews. Here, you’re treated to a traditional afternoon tea—a quintessentially British ritual that includes delicious sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and preserves, and an assortment of pastries.

The ambiance is elegant yet inviting, with views overlooking the Queen’s stables, which adds a special royal touch to the experience. The service is often praised—“wonderful and well worth it,” as one review puts it. The tea is booked at a specific time (around noon or early afternoon), so being on schedule is important. Some visitors have found the timing a little confusing, as the booking doesn’t specify the exact afternoon, but it’s generally a pleasant, unhurried experience.

Authenticity and Value

One of the real strengths of this tour is how it balances guided sightseeing with a genuine taste of British tradition. The cost includes the services of a professional guide, the coach ride, and the afternoon tea, making it a worthwhile package for those wanting a hassle-free day with a touch of luxury.

However, since the tour does not include entrance fees to attractions, those eager to go inside Westminster Abbey or other sites will need to plan separate visits. The value lies in the combination of sights, storytelling, and the memorable tea experience, rather than in admission to specific venues.

Real-World Insights from Travelers

A notable review mentions a frustrating experience with the tour operator’s pick-up location, which caused a missed tour. This highlights the importance of clarity in meeting points and arriving on time. Conversely, many travelers praise the guides’ knowledge and the delicious food, making the overall experience worthwhile despite minor hiccups.

Another traveler appreciated the well-organized nature of the coach ride and the delicious food, suggesting that the value for money is good if you’re looking for a guided overview of London with a luxurious finish.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of London’s most famous sights without the hassle of navigating public transportation. It’s particularly suited for history buffs, royal enthusiasts, or anyone looking to combine sightseeing with a classic experience like afternoon tea.

If you prefer to skip the crowds and enjoy a comfortable ride with expert commentary, this tour fits the bill. However, if you’re eager to explore inside attractions or prefer a more flexible schedule, you might want to supplement this experience with additional visits.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a well-rounded introduction to London, this tour offers a good balance of sightseeing, storytelling, and indulgence. The professional guide enriches the experience with engaging commentary, while the coach makes it easy to see London’s highlights without tiring your feet.

The highlight for many is undoubtedly the afternoon tea at The Rubens—an experience that feels both elegant and authentic. While the schedule can be tight, and some logistical issues have been noted, the overall value remains solid, especially if you appreciate combining guided narratives with a taste of British tradition.

In sum, this tour is best for those who want a convenient, informative, and delicious way to get a taste of London’s history and royal culture. It’s especially suited for visitors who plan to stay nearby Victoria Station and are comfortable with scheduled timings.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at Victoria Coach Station. You’ll need to make your way there independently.

How long does the whole tour last?
Approximately 5 hours, with the main sightseeing and the afternoon tea included.

Do I need to pay for attraction entries?
Yes, entrance fees to attractions like Westminster Abbey or Buckingham Palace are not included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes for the stops, plus a jacket if the weather is cool. The coach provides Wi-Fi and USB charging, so bring your devices.

Can I join the tour if I arrive late?
It’s best to arrive on time at the meeting point, as the schedule is tight and the afternoon tea is booked at a specific time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind the schedule and seating might suit older children better. It’s a relaxed, scenic experience overall.

What if I want to visit inside Buckingham Palace?
This tour does not include inside visits. You would need separate tickets or tours for that experience.

This tour offers a charming glimpse into London’s royal and historical heart, paired with a quintessentially British meal. Whether you’re in town for a short visit or simply want a comfortable, informative day out, it’s a memorable way to experience what makes London special.

You can check availability for your dates here: