Buckingham Palace Tour and Afternoon Tea

Visiting Buckingham Palace and savoring a traditional afternoon tea aboard a sightseeing bus is a classic way to indulge in London’s regal charm and vibrant city sights. This combo tour from Golden Tours Gray Line London promises a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights—all wrapped into approximately four hours of enjoyable activity.

What stands out most about this experience is the chance to explore Britain’s most famous royal residence and then relax with a delicious afternoon tea while taking in iconic landmarks. The reviews highlight the guides’ professionalism and friendly attitude, making it a well-rounded experience for travelers seeking both education and leisure.

One possible consideration is that this tour is unsupervised after your visit to Buckingham Palace, meaning you’ll need to make your way independently to the afternoon tea bus. Also, if you’re traveling with mobility issues, it’s essential to plan ahead as access requires booking 14 days in advance.

This experience is ideal for those who want a balanced taste of royal history, sightseeing, and culinary indulgence—perfect for first-time visitors, culture enthusiasts, or anyone celebrating a special occasion in London.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience combining a royal palace visit with a scenic sightseeing bus tour.
• Authentic afternoon tea served on a classic English bus, with panoramic views of London’s landmarks.
• Guided tour of Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms, with an audio guide enhancing the experience.
• Flexible timing with the ability to explore the palace at your own pace before the tea.
• Value for money considering the mix of experiences and the quality of the guides.
• Accessibility considerations require booking 14 days in advance for mobility needs.

Exploring Buckingham Palace: The Heart of Royal London

Our journey begins at Buckingham Palace, where the grandeur of this iconic residence immediately captures your attention. As the administrative hub of the Royal Household and the residence of the King, it’s a place that embodies centuries of tradition with a modern twist.

What makes this visit special? Firstly, the State Rooms are a highlight—exquisitely furnished with French and English antique furniture, showcasing treasures from the Royal Collection. You might find yourself marveling at works by Rubens, Canaletto, and Rembrandt, alongside sculptures by Canova and delicate porcelain by Sèvres. The audio guide, included in your ticket, helps bring these masterpieces to life, often revealing interesting stories about individual pieces that you might overlook on your own.

The gardens are often called “the walled oasis in the middle of London,” and rightly so. They are a peaceful retreat amid the city’s hustle, with lush greenery and beautifully maintained grounds that provide a striking contrast to the surrounding cityscape. Although the garden tour lasts about two hours, be aware that visiting hours may vary depending on the season and official events, so plan your timing accordingly.

Based on reviews, visitors particularly loved the knowledgeable guides who provided insightful commentary—”Abisola and Aneesh were fantastic and really looked after us,” one reviewer shared. This personal touch enhances the experience, transforming a sightseeing ticket into a memorable exploration.

The Transition to Afternoon Tea: A Scenic London Tour

After your visit, you’ll be free to make your way independently to Bulleid Way in Victoria, where the Afternoon Tea Bus awaits. If you’re a foodie or simply looking to unwind, this is a charming way to indulge in a traditional English afternoon tea while seeing London’s top sights.

The tea service begins with a glass of Prosecco or a soft drink—an elegant touch that sets the tone for the afternoon. The menu features classic finger sandwiches, scones served with clotted cream and preserves, and small tea cakes. You’ll also have a choice of tea, with vegan and gluten-free options available if requested 72 hours in advance. Keep in mind that dishes may vary, so if you have specific dietary requirements, it’s wise to communicate these early.

The bus itself is a panoramic tour vehicle, offering views of Tower Bridge, Big Ben, the London Eye, and other landmarks. The route is subject to change based on traffic, but the experience is designed to give you a relaxed, scenic overview of London’s most photogenic sights. The shared tables and the lively atmosphere make it a social experience, with up to 30 guests on board.

Reviewers consistently praised the friendly staff and the quality of the service—”Abisola and Aneesh looked after us really well,” a guest said—highlighting how guides and staff make the difference in ensuring you’re comfortable and well-informed.

Practical Details and Considerations

This tour is priced at $117.54 per person, which for a combined experience of palace sightseeing, professional guides, and afternoon tea, offers good value—especially considering the inclusion of tickets and the scenic bus tour.

The duration is around four hours, making it suitable for a half-day activity. Your visit to Buckingham Palace includes audio-guided access to the State Rooms, which often means you’ll learn more than just looking at beautiful furniture—you’ll get stories behind the art, the history of royal ceremonies, and glimpses of behind-the-scenes details.

The meeting point is at Buckingham Palace, with the tour beginning at 10:45 am, allowing you to avoid the afternoon crowds. After your palace exploration, you’re responsible for reaching the tea bus at Victoria, but the location is near public transportation, simplifying your transfer.

For those concerned about mobility, advance booking is essential, as access requires 14 days’ notice. The tour is not recommended for children under five, but it’s perfect for adults, couples, or small groups celebrating a special moment.

Tips for travelers:
– Arrive early to maximize your time at Buckingham Palace.
– Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the State Rooms involves some walking.
– Carry your ID if you plan to consume alcohol on the tea bus (only served to those 18+).
– Check if you need a vegan or gluten-free meal when booking, to ensure dietary needs are met.

What Reviewers Are Saying

With an overall perfect rating, the sole review highlights the excellent service from guides Abisola and Aneesh. The reviewer mentioned that they “really looked after us,” emphasizing the personal touch that makes this tour stand out. It’s clear that the guides add significant value with their professionalism and friendliness.

Another notable insight is how flexible and scenic the experience is. While the tour doesn’t include a live guide on the bus, the panoramic views and the relaxed pace make up for it. The combination of a royal palace tour and a leisurely afternoon tea creates a well-balanced outing that blends history, culture, and culinary pleasure.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re interested in seeing Buckingham Palace’s opulent State Rooms and prefer a comprehensive yet relaxed sightseeing experience, this tour ticks all the boxes. The inclusion of professional guides enhances your understanding, making it especially appealing to first-time visitors who want context along with their sightseeing.

Those who enjoy culinary treats will appreciate the afternoon tea served on a scenic bus, offering a taste of British tradition paired with stunning views. The value for money is clear when you consider the combination of tickets, guided commentary, and a delicious meal—all packed into a half-day adventure.

However, travelers with mobility issues should plan ahead, and those seeking a fully guided experience on the bus might find it lacking in narration during the ride. Still, the overall balance of activities and the friendly staff make this a memorable outing.

In essence, this tour suits history buffs, food lovers, and anyone wanting a taste of British royalty in an easy-to-book, well-organized package. It’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply adding a touch of elegance to your London trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 are not allowed on this tour, though older kids might enjoy the palace and scenic bus.

How long do I spend at Buckingham Palace?
The palace visit lasts about two hours, including exploring the State Rooms with an audio guide.

Can I have dietary requirements accommodated?
Vegan and gluten-free options are available if requested at least 72 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there’s some walking involved; dress for the weather since parts of the palace grounds and bus tour are outdoors.

Is the bus route fixed?
No, the route may change due to traffic, but it always includes major landmarks like Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the London Eye.

Do I need to book the afternoon tea separately?
No, it’s included after your palace visit, but you need to make your own way to Victoria for the tea bus.

Are guides available during the bus tour?
No live guides on the bus, but the panoramic views and commentary from the staff provide a pleasant experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, allowing full refunds.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
Mobility access requires booking 14 days in advance, so plan ahead if needed.

What is the price?
The experience costs approximately $117.54 per person, which includes all tickets and the afternoon tea.

This tour offers a refined way to see London’s royal highlights and indulge in a beloved British tradition, all with the comfort of guided insights and scenic views. Whether you’re celebrating a special day or simply want to enrich your London visit, it’s a delightful choice.