London Afternoon Tea Bus and Panoramic Tour on Lower Deck

Imagine cruising through London’s bustling streets on a classic double-decker, savoring finger sandwiches and scones, all while soaking in breathtaking views of landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey. That’s exactly what this London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers—a blend of sightseeing, good food, and a touch of British tradition. While it’s not a guided historical narrative, it promises a relaxed, picture-worthy experience with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to combine sightseeing with a traditional high tea—a quintessentially British experience that’s rarely offered in such a casual, scenic setting. The included Prosecco or soft drinks elevate the moment, making it feel special without breaking the bank.

However, a key consideration is that this isn’t a guided tour in the classic sense; there’s no live narration or detailed commentary on the landmarks. Instead, it’s primarily a scenic ride with plenty of time for enjoyment and photos. This makes it ideal for visitors who already have some familiarity with London’s top sights or those simply wanting a relaxing afternoon with delicious bites.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a fun, laid-back way to see London’s highlights while indulging in a traditional afternoon tea. It’s perfect for groups, couples, or anyone who appreciates a leisurely pace, good food, and great views.

Key Points

• Unique combination of sightseeing and traditional British high tea on a double-decker bus.
• Great views of landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, London Eye, and Trafalgar Square.
• Inclusive fare includes finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, mini pastries, and a glass of Prosecco or soft drink.
• Shared seating with no specific seat reservations, which can mean sharing tables with other travelers.
• No live narration during the ride, so you might need to recognize landmarks yourself or bring a guidebook.
• Approximate duration of 90 minutes, with some reviews mentioning that traffic can extend the ride slightly.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Arrival

The tour kicks off at Golden Tours, Bulleid Way, conveniently located near Victoria Station. Travelers are advised to arrive about 15 minutes early to settle in—because as some reviews point out, seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, and you might want to aim for a lower deck seat for better views.

The Route and Landmark Highlights

Once aboard, you’ll cruise through central London, catching glimpses of some of its most famous sights. The bus passes by Piccadilly Circus, where you’ll see the bustling square connecting Regent Street, Shaftesbury Avenue, and more. Several reviews note that this is a vibrant meeting point and a lively spot for photos.

Next, you’ll glide past Charing Cross and Trafalgar Square, the heart of London’s political and cultural life, featuring the iconic fountains and statues. From the South Bank, you’ll see the London Eye, a giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic city views, which many reviewers have appreciated for its impressive backdrop.

The route also includes a view of Westminster Abbey, a Gothic masterpiece with over 700 years of history, and Buckingham Palace, where the changing of the guard or royal balcony moments are world-famous. These landmarks are what many travelers consider must-see, and the bus provides a nice vantage point—though note that traffic, as some reviews mention, can sometimes extend the duration or limit window for sightseeing.

The Food and Service

The main feature—afternoon tea—is served on the lower deck, with seating arranged on a shared basis. The menu includes delicious finger sandwiches with options like hummus and falafel or smoked salmon and cream cheese, catering to various tastes. The mini pastries and traditional scones with clotted cream and jam are praised for their quality.

A glass of Prosecco or a soft drink is included, adding a celebratory flair. Many reviews highlight that the staff is friendly and welcoming, making the experience more enjoyable despite some reports of inconsistent service.

Authenticity and Value

One of the most contentious points from reviews revolves around the lack of guided commentary. Several travelers felt disappointed that there was no narration explaining what they were seeing. Instead, music often played, and some visitors had to recognize landmarks on their own or bring their own guidebooks.

Pricing at roughly $67.21 per person is generally considered reasonable given the experience—combining sightseeing with a sit-down tea service. Many reviewers felt they received good value, especially considering the included drinks and the unique setting. Still, some felt the experience was somewhat disorganized, citing issues like slow service, shared tables, and cleanliness concerns.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Great vantage point from the lower deck for photos
• Enjoyable British high tea with a variety of tasty treats
• The inclusion of Prosecco or soda adds a celebratory touch
• Convenient starting point near Victoria Station
• Some reviews praise friendly staff and delicious food

Cons:

• Lack of live narration or guided commentary
• Traffic congestion can cause longer ride times
• Seating is shared and on a first-come basis
• No restroom facilities on board
• Some reports of bus cleanliness issues and loud music
• Not suitable for young children (under 5) or those requiring facilities

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed way to see London’s most iconic sights without the pressure of a guided tour, this experience fits the bill. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a lighthearted, scenic afternoon with tasty food. It’s also a charming way to combine sightseeing with a classic British treat.

However, if you’re seeking detailed historical commentary, a more traditional guided experience, or a tour with dedicated commentary, this might not meet your expectations. The absence of a guide means you’ll want some prior knowledge or a guidebook to make the most of the sightseeing.

The Sum Up

The London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers a unique blend of scenic vistas and delicious British fare in a relaxed, informal setting. For those who appreciate beautiful views, a bit of indulgence, and the novelty of dining on a double-decker bus, it’s a compelling choice. The inclusion of prosecco and tasty finger sandwiches elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing, making it a memorable way to spend an afternoon.

While some may find the lack of guided commentary a drawback, others will enjoy the casual, social atmosphere and the chance to relax on the move. Given its reasonable price point and central location, it’s a fun, laid-back option—a good pick for visitors wanting a taste of traditional British afternoon tea combined with some of London’s most famous sights.

FAQs

Is there a guide or narration during the tour?
No, this tour does not include a live guide or narration. You’ll enjoy the sights from the bus, but you’ll need to recognize landmarks yourself or bring a guidebook.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the afternoon tea experience with finger sandwiches, mini pastries, scones with clotted cream and jam, a glass of Prosecco or soft drink, and the scenic bus ride.

Can I choose my seat or seating location?
Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, and specific seat reservations are not available. Many prefer lower deck seats for better views.

Are there restroom facilities onboard?
No, the bus does not have restrooms, so plan accordingly.

Is alcohol served to minors?
No, alcohol is only available to those aged 18 and over, and a valid ID will be required to prove age.

What if I arrive late or get delayed?
If you’re more than five minutes late, the tour may leave without you. It’s best to arrive about 15 minutes early to secure a good spot.

Can children participate?
Children under 5 are not allowed, and those aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult.

This tour offers a charming way to experience London’s top sights with a quintessentially British touch. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a relaxed sightseeing experience, it provides a cozy, photo-worthy, and delicious afternoon.