London: Traditional Afternoon Tea Tour in a Luxury Coach

Getting a taste of London’s famous sights paired with a delicious afternoon tea on a sleek, double-decker bus might sound too good to be true. But this Luxury Coach Afternoon Tea Tour by BUSTRONOME London truly delivers an elegant blend of sightseeing and culinary delight. Spanning just over two hours, it’s a charming way to see the city while nibbling on British classics with a French flair.

What we love most about this experience? It’s not just the stunning views of landmarks like Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, and the Shard—it’s also the chance to enjoy a refined twist on traditional afternoon tea while comfortably seated on a luxurious coach. That said, the tour does involve London traffic, so don’t expect a perfectly smooth ride at all times. It’s best suited for travelers who want a cozy, memorable way to combine sightseeing, food, and optional bubbly in a small, intimate group.

Key Points

• Elegant setting: Travel through London on a luxurious double-decker bus while enjoying a gourmet afternoon tea.
• Stunning views: See major sights like Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Piccadilly Circus from the comfort of your seat.
• Expert narration: Learn about London’s history and landmarks through an interactive audio guide available in English and French.
• Tasty treats: Indulge in sandwiches, scones, pastries, and unlimited hot drinks, with an optional bottomless prosecco.
• Small group: Limited to 8 participants, making for a personalized experience.
• Convenient location: Starts at Embankment, with no hotel pickup included.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting: A Glass-Lined Double-Decker Bus

Picture yourself lounging on a sleek, glass-roofed bus that feels more like a restaurant than a vehicle. The Bustronome London offers a luxurious environment—comfortable seats, a sophisticated ambiance, and panoramic windows—making every sight a picture-perfect moment. The interior is designed with style and function in mind, providing a cozy yet upscale backdrop for your afternoon tea.

The Itinerary and Landmarks

The tour lasts about 1.75 hours, giving ample time to soak in London’s most famous sights as the bus loops around the city. The route includes views of:
– St. Paul’s Cathedral and the striking Millennium Bridge
– The impressive Tower Bridge and the historic Tower of London
– The sleek Shard building, piercing the skyline
– The majestic Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament
– The bustling Trafalgar Square and iconic Piccadilly Circus

Each landmark is highlighted via the interactive audio guide, which is available in both English and French. One reviewer appreciated the guides’ knowledge, noting “Ally and Yovui were polite. They served us well and made the trip enjoyable.”

Culinary Experience: Afternoon Tea with a French Twist

The centerpiece of this tour is the traditional British afternoon tea, but with a creative French twist that elevates the experience. You’ll be served:
– Four delicate finger sandwiches, carefully crafted and thoughtfully flavored
– Four pastries and scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam
– An assortment of hot beverages—tea, coffee, and unlimited hot drinks
– For those who opt for the bottomless prosecco, this adds a celebratory sparkle to the experience, with multiple reviewers praising the quality of the wine as being “amazing” and “totally recommended.”

The tea and treats are served in a way that encourages relaxed conversation and appreciation of the flavors. One reviewer summed it up as “The food was amazing, totally recommended,” highlighting how well the culinary component complements the sightseeing.

The Interactive Audio Guide

The audio guide is a standout feature, providing insightful commentary about the sights in both English and French. It enriches the experience, transforming a simple bus ride into an educational journey. The guide covers history, interesting facts, and tidbits that you might not find in a typical sightseeing tour, making it perfect for those who love learning as they look.

The Small Group Advantage

With a limit of 8 participants, the tour maintains an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. This allows for better interaction with the guides and the opportunity to ask questions or simply enjoy the scenery without fighting crowds. Reviewers specifically noted the polite, attentive service provided by guides like Ally and Yovui, who made sure everyone was comfortable and well-informed.

Practical Details and Value

At $101.02 per person, this experience offers a high-end, all-in-one package that combines sightseeing, gastronomy, and a touch of luxury. While it might seem a bit pricier than standard sightseeing options, the inclusion of fine teas, pastries, sandwiches, and the optional Prosecco, plus Wi-Fi and a toilet on board, add significant value.

Note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to meet at the Embankment TFL bus stop. The tour’s timing is flexible, with checkable availability, and booking allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

What the Reviews Tell Us

Guests consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One reviewer called the tour “amazing,” emphasizing that it was “worth every cent,” despite the traffic sometimes causing some bumps in the road. The food, particularly the pastries and scones, garnered special praise, with one reviewer stating “The food was amazing, totally recommended.”

Participants also appreciated the small-group setting, which contributed to a relaxed, personalized experience. The bottomless prosecco option was a hit, with many noting the quality of the wine and how it added a festive touch.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers who want a luxurious, hassle-free way to see London’s top sights, this afternoon tea tour ticks all the boxes. The combination of gourmet treats, expert narration, and spectacular views makes it a memorable experience—especially if you’re celebrating something special or simply want to indulge in a bit of elegance.

If you’re a foodie who appreciates a good story behind the landmarks, or someone looking for a comfortable, intimate way to explore the city, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s also ideal for visitors who want to combine sightseeing with a refined culinary experience without the fuss of navigating public transport or crowded restaurants.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer more active exploration, you might find this experience a little indulgent. The traffic can also impact the smoothness of the ride, so if you’re sensitive to that, plan accordingly.

This Luxury Coach Afternoon Tea Tour offers a delightful blend of elegance, education, and entertainment—making it a classy addition to any London itinerary.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour starts at the TFL Bus Stop 40B near Embankment station. Participants need to arrange their own transportation to the meeting point.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 1.75 hours, giving you plenty of time to see major sights and enjoy your afternoon tea.

Can I get the bottomless prosecco?
Yes, the option is available if you select it at booking. Guests who have tried it praise the quality of the prosecco and say it adds a fun, celebratory element to the experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over the age of 3 are allowed, and children under 12 can purchase a child ticket. It’s a good option for families who want a relaxed outing.

What’s included in the price?
You get the 1.75-hour sightseeing tour, an audio guide, four sandwiches, four pastries with scones, unlimited hot drinks, mineral water, Wi-Fi, toilet access, and optionally bottomless prosecco.

Is there any flexibility in cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

In summary, this tour offers a refined, enjoyable way to combine sightseeing and afternoon tea in London, perfect for those who value comfort, good food, and a touch of elegance. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to experience London in style, it’s a memorable experience worth considering.