London Vintage Bus Tour and Cream Tea at Harrods

Imagine weaving through London’s bustling streets aboard a beautifully restored 50-year-old vintage bus, capturing iconic sights like Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London while enjoying the charm of a classic double-decker. Afterward, you’ll unwind with a refined cream tea at Harrods, complete with freshly baked scones and a glass of Prosecco, in an environment that oozes sophistication. This tour, priced at about $135 per person and lasting roughly four hours, offers a delightful combination of sightseeing, history, and indulgence.

What we love most about this experience is how the vintage bus brings history to life, with many reviews praising the knowledgeable guides who make the sights truly memorable. Plus, the inclusion of a Thames river cruise adds a relaxing, scenic element that complements the busy city streets. The luxury cream tea at Harrods is another highlight, giving you a taste of refined English tradition.

However, a potential consideration is that because it’s a half-day tour, if you’re looking to explore London in more depth, this might feel a bit compressed. Also, as with all open-top tours in London, be prepared for the possibility of rain, which can sometimes dampen the experience. But overall, this tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed overview of London with a touch of elegance.

If you’re after a fun, informative, and delicious way to see the city, and enjoy some of London’s finest traditions, this experience strikes a good balance. It’s especially perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to tick many iconic sights off their list.

Key Points

• Iconic Sights: See Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament, London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London.
• Authentic Transportation: Travel on a vintage double-decker bus that adds charm and character.
• Scenic Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing river cruise along the Thames passing famous landmarks.
• Gourmet Experience: Indulge in a luxurious cream tea at Harrods, including scones, clotted cream, jams, and a glass of Prosecco.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like John and Lisa, make the experience lively and informative.
• Flexibility & Value: The tour offers a great mix of sightseeing and leisure for a reasonable price, with a full refund option if canceled early.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Includes and How It Unfolds

This half-day adventure combines transportation, sightseeing, and indulgence into a well-curated experience that takes you through the heart of London’s most famous sights. It begins at Victoria coach station, where you’ll meet your guide—usually lively and knowledgeable, as reviews highlight. You’ll start by climbing aboard a restored vintage double-decker bus, which immediately sets a nostalgic tone.

From here, you’ll meander through Westminster, with plenty of opportunities for photos of Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. Several travelers mention that the guides do a great job explaining the history behind each site, often sharing stories that add context beyond what you see from the window. Jasmille’s review sums this up: “The tour guide John was the best. He took pictures for us, explained everything, and had a lot of fun.”

Sightseeing Highlights

• Westminster and Big Ben: Your route takes you past the symbolic heart of London’s government and history.
• St. Paul’s Cathedral: As you pass by, you get a glimpse of Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece. The guide might tell you about Princess Diana and Prince Charles’ wedding at this iconic church.
• The Tower of London: Built nearly a millennium ago, it’s a fortress, prison, and home to the Crown Jewels. You’ll also hear about Traitors’ Gate and be introduced to the famous Beefeaters guarding the fortress.
• Thames River Cruise: After the bus tour, you’ll step aboard a boat for a scenic ride passing Shakespeare’s Globe, Cleopatra’s Needle, and London Bridge. Several reviews, like Ryszard’s, praise this part: “The bus guide and driver were excellent, very informative and considerate of the group,” emphasizing how the cruise adds a calming, scenic dimension.

The Harrods Cream Tea

Post-cruise, you’ll arrive at The Georgian Restaurant at Harrods for a luxurious cream tea. Since opening in 1911, Harrods has been synonymous with elegance, and this experience doesn’t disappoint. The tea includes warm scones served with clotted cream and house-made jams, and over 35 teas to choose from. The addition of a glass of Prosecco (exclusive to Premium Tours guests) makes this feel special without breaking the bank.

Many travelers, like Laura, describe the tea as “brilliant,” praising the superb service, the elegant surroundings, and the live music that adds to the atmosphere. The setting is as much about enjoying the environment as the food, and it’s clear that Harrods delivers a refined, memorable experience.

The Experience in Practice

More Great Tours Nearby

The Vintage Bus

Traveling on a classic double-decker adds a layer of nostalgia and fun. It’s a perfect way to see the sights from above, with open sides allowing for unobstructed views. Be prepared for weather variability—some reviews mention that the open-top bus might switch to a closed version if it rains. Bringing comfortable shoes is advisable, as you’ll be walking a bit during some stops.

The River Cruise

The Thames cruise gives a different perspective, offering a peaceful break from city noise. You’ll see landmarks like Shakespeare’s Globe, Cleopatra’s Needle, and Tower Bridge from the water, which many find an ideal way to slow down and enjoy the scenery. The cruise is also a good way for photos, with many travelers capturing memorable shots of London’s skyline.

The Walk at Key Stops

While the main focus is on the bus and boat rides, some walking is involved, especially exploring areas like St. Paul’s Cathedral or the Tower of London. The guides usually take care with timing, but if you have mobility issues, this is worth considering as the tour isn’t suited for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments.

The Food & Drink

The cream tea at Harrods is more than just a snack; it’s a culinary experience steeped in tradition. The warm scones, the creamy clotted cream, and the variety of teas make it a highlight, especially if you enjoy refined, classic English fare. The live music and elegant décor elevate the experience, making it feel like a special occasion rather than just a meal.

Pricing & Value

At $134.70 per person, this tour presents good value considering the inclusions: a guided vintage bus tour, a river cruise, and a luxury cream tea with sparkling wine. Reviews highlight the friendly guides and the well-paced itinerary as strengths, with many expressing satisfaction with the overall experience given the cost.

Some travelers, like Stephen, note it’s great value for money and appreciate the friendly staff. When you factor in the cost of separate tickets for similar activities—like a bus tour, river cruise, and afternoon tea—this combined experience offers a more affordable and seamless day out.

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to London who want a broad overview of the city’s most iconic sights in a relaxed, enjoyable way. It suits those who appreciate a touch of history, scenery, and luxury all rolled into one. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a partner and want to enjoy some authentic British traditions, this tour hits many of the highlights in a fun, manageable format.

It’s particularly good for those who value guided commentary—as reviews praise the guides—and for anyone looking to combine sightseeing with a memorable culinary treat. However, travelers with mobility issues or those prone to rainy weather should weigh the open-top bus factor and plan accordingly.

This London Vintage Bus Tour combined with a cream tea at Harrods offers a charming and refined way to see the city. The vintage bus adds a nostalgic touch, the Thames cruise provides a scenic break, and the afternoon tea delivers a taste of classic English luxury. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and indulgence.

If you’re after an experience that’s both fun and informative, with the bonus of a luxurious meal, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s best suited for travelers who want a rundown without the rush, and those eager to enjoy some of London’s most beloved traditions.

For anyone seeking a delightful, picture-worthy day of exploration and elegance, this is a tour that delivers—reminding you that sometimes the best way to see a city is through its stories, its water, and its tea.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, the focus on sightseeing and the luxury tea experience may appeal more to older children or teenagers who enjoy history and scenery. It’s best to check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are advised since there is some walking involved. As it’s an open-top bus, be prepared for possible rain—bring an umbrella or raincoat just in case.

How long is the boat cruise?
The cruise along the Thames is part of the overall 4-hour tour, providing a relaxing scenic break after the bus ride.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes. You can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour departs from Victoria coach station at Gate 0. You will need to make your way there independently.

Is the cream tea at Harrods included in the price?
Yes, it includes the tea, scones, clotted cream, jam, and a glass of Prosecco, all part of the package.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
No, the tour is conducted in English only, and there is no mention of other language options.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on the tour.

Is there any walking involved at the sightseeing stops?
Some walking is involved, especially at stops like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London, so be prepared if mobility is an issue.

What if the weather is bad?
The open-top bus may switch to a closed-top version in case of rain, so bring appropriate clothing for weather changes. The cruise is outdoors but scenic, so consider if you’re comfortable in less ideal weather.

This tour strikes a great balance between sightseeing, comfort, and a taste of British tradition. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a memorable way to see London, it offers a slice of the city’s charm in just a few hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: