Best of London by LE GRAND – London’s Luxury Bus Tour

If you’re looking for a way to explore London’s most iconic sights with a touch of sophistication, the Best of London by LE GRAND offers just that. This luxurious sightseeing bus combines the comfort of a first-class lounge, gourmet food options, and the chance to see London’s major landmarks—all from a sleek, panoramic bus. Priced at around $53.88 per person, it promises a chic, relaxed way to enjoy the city’s highlights in about 1.5 hours.

What stands out most is the luxurious atmosphere onboard, complemented by a knowledgeable multilingual audioguide, which provides context without overwhelming. The inclusion of gourmet bites and the option for a traditional afternoon tea elevate this experience beyond the usual sightseeing tour. A potential drawback? The tour is quite short, so it’s best suited for those who want an elegant overview rather than an in-depth exploration.

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy comfort, have a taste for fine food, and want to see the core sights of Westminster and beyond without the hustle of crowded buses or walking. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate a more refined way to discover London’s landmarks, but keep in mind that it’s not designed for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: The tour is delivered aboard a high-end, panoramic bus with first-class seating and gourmet offerings.
• Educational & Entertaining: The onboard audioguide offers multilingual insights into London’s major sights.
• Gourmet & Afternoon Tea Options: You can indulge in canapés, desserts, or a traditional afternoon tea with champagne, caviar, and exquisite teas.
• Prime Landmarks: The route covers Westminster, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Soho, Piccadilly Circus, and more.
• Limited Group Size: With only four participants per small group, the experience feels intimate and personalized.
• Time & Value: The 1.5-hour tour offers a compact but rich overview of London’s most famous sights at a reasonable price.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

The Beginning at Green Park Station

Starting at Green Park Station, the tour sets a relaxed, upscale tone from the moment you step onto the LE GRAND bus. The guest reviews note that the bus “oozed class,” fitting for anyone looking to indulge in a more polished sightseeing experience. The bus and the guide are key to this tour’s appeal, with reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the impeccable service.

Sightseeing in Style: Westminster and Surroundings

The route kicks off by passing through some of London’s most iconic areas, including Westminster, where you’ll see the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and 10 Downing Street. The audioguide adds context, making you feel like you’re listening to a personal historian, even if you’re just peering out the window.

Travelers have noted that the pass-by experience allows for a relaxed viewing, but for those wanting to get out and explore, this might feel a bit limited. Nevertheless, the panoramic windows provide excellent views of landmarks like Big Ben and the River Thames, making it ideal for taking photos without having to navigate crowds.

The Wealth of Landmarks

As the bus cruises past areas like Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, and the Natural History Museum, the experience becomes a scenic drive through London’s most glamorous neighborhoods. The route includes pass-by views of Harrods, Knightsbridge, and Apsley House, giving you a taste of London’s luxury districts.

The highlight for many is the pass-by of Buckingham Palace, with the chance to imagine yourself as part of the royal scene. The tours don’t stop here; instead, they continue past Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, providing a comprehensive view of Westminster’s political heart.

Food and Drinks: A Gourmet Affair

One of the most unique aspects of LE GRAND is the gourmet bites menu—even if you’re not inclined to purchase, knowing that you can indulge in canapés, viennoiserie, or desserts by Robuchon adds a sense of occasion.

The Afternoon Tea Experience is a standout feature, offering half a bottle of Ruinart Blanc de Blancs Champagne, Azure Beluga Royale Caviar, mini patisseries, and a blue tea. It’s an indulgence that feels lavish without being over-the-top, making it perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply elevating your sightseeing.

The onboard bar also offers a range of drinks, including champagne, prosecco, wine, whisky, or cognac. Reviewers mention that ordering online before the tour ensures a smooth experience, as the drinks are not included in the base price.

The Route: A Carefully Chosen Itinerary

The route hits many of London’s most celebrated sights, with brief passes of:

• Victoria and Albert Museum
• Kensington and Chelsea
• Royal Albert Hall
• Kensington Gardens

It then moves toward Westminster, passing Whitehall, Trafalgar Square, Nelson’s Column, and the iconic Big Ben. Afterward, the bus makes its way through Soho, Piccadilly Circus, and Mayfair, providing scenic views and insightful commentary.

The tour concludes back at Green Park Station, making it easy to continue exploring the city or head to your next activity.

The Real-World Experience: What to Expect

The tour’s small group size, limited to four participants, means a more personal experience, with the driver and waiter ensuring attentive service. The multilingual guides speak languages including Russian, German, French, Spanish, Chinese, and English, which broadens its appeal for international travelers.

A few practical notes from reviews: arriving 15 minutes early is recommended, as the tour starts promptly. Also, the drinks for the tour must be pre-purchased online, which is a simple step to ensure your preferred beverage is available.

What Could Be Better?

While the experience scores well overall, some minor criticisms include the staff at the bus entrance—one review mentions that “the young lady who received us wasn’t too nice,” which is a reminder that first impressions matter. The tour’s nature also makes it unsuitable for children under five, and it’s not designed for those with large luggage or mobility issues.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience will appeal most to adults and older travelers seeking a blend of luxury, comfort, and sightseeing. It’s fantastic for anyone wanting a refined overview of London’s core sights while enjoying gourmet treats and champagne. If you’re after an informal, energetic, or extensive city exploration, you might prefer other options like hop-on-hop-off buses or walking tours.

It’s also perfect for special occasions, romantic outings, or travelers craving something more upscale than typical bus tours. Keep in mind, it’s not ideal for travelers on a tight schedule, as the 1.5-hour duration is quite short for deep exploration.

The Sum Up

Best of London by LE GRAND offers a luxurious, relaxed way to see London’s most famous sights. The blend of panoramic views, expert-guided commentary, and gourmet treats makes it a memorable experience, especially if you enjoy comfort and a touch of elegance. It’s best suited for those who want a refined, intimate overview of the city without sacrificing quality or style.

While the tour’s short duration might leave some wanting more, the experience’s quality—highlighted by knowledgeable guides and indulgent food and drink choices—justifies the price for many travelers. It’s a smart choice if you’re celebrating a special occasion, traveling in a small group, or simply looking for a more upscale way to see London.

If you value comfort, excellent service, and a curated experience, LE GRAND’s luxury bus tour will meet your expectations and add a sophisticated touch to your London visit.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 5 years old, mainly due to the luxury setting and the nature of the experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours. It provides a quick yet comprehensive view of London’s key sights.

Can I purchase drinks onboard?
Drinks, including champagne and other beverages, can be pre-purchased online. Onboard options are available, but pre-ordering helps ensure availability.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see major sights like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Whitehall, and many more.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The information suggests the tour is not suitable for those with large luggage, mobility scooters, or baby strollers, so accessibility might be limited.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling options aren’t specified but can be checked at booking.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to small groups, with a maximum of 4 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is it worth the price?
Given the luxury atmosphere, gourmet options, and comprehensive sightseeing, many will find this tour excellent value—especially for those craving an elegant, guided overview of London.

Whether you’re celebrating, seeking comfort, or simply want to see London’s highlights in style, LE GRAND’s luxury bus tour offers a memorable, refined way to explore the city.