London: Afternoon Tea Bus & Buckingham Palace Entry Option

Exploring London is a dream for many travelers, but sometimes the best way to see the city’s highlights is from the comfort of a stylish, air-conditioned bus. The London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, offered by Evan Evans Tours, combines sightseeing with a delicious culinary experience, making it a memorable way to enjoy the city’s iconic sights. If you’re a fan of a touch of luxury with your sightseeing, this tour offers a charming blend of culture, history, and taste.

What we love most about this experience is the combination of panoramic views and gourmet food served right onboard, all narrated by an expert live guide. Plus, the option to step into Buckingham Palace’s State Apartments adds a royal flavor that’s hard to beat. However, it’s worth noting that the tour duration can vary significantly—so planning your day around the start times and length is a good idea. This experience suits travelers looking for a relaxed, guided introduction to London combined with a unique dining experience.

Key Points

• Comfortable, air-conditioned bus with panoramic windows for great views.
• Expert live guide providing engaging stories and insights.
• Gourmet afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones, cakes, and options for vegan or gluten-free diets.
• Flexible options to upgrade seats or add prosecco and inside Buckingham Palace (July-September).
• Includes a branded souvenir travel cup to remember your experience.
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed sightseeing tour that combines culture, cuisine, and comfort.

An In-Depth Look at the London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

The Experience: What You Can Expect

This tour offers a relaxing yet comprehensive way to see London’s most famous sights. It’s hosted aboard a branded PG Tips afternoon tea bus, equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and USB charging ports—crucial features that keep you comfortable and connected while on the move. The journey itself lasts approximately 90 minutes, but this can extend up to four hours depending on the included options and stops.

The panoramic windows mean you’ll get unobstructed views of landmarks like Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Somerset House, and the London Eye. The guide’s lively commentary adds context, sharing stories behind each site, making the tour not just a sightseeing ride but an educational one.

The Route: A Moving Landmarks Tour

The tour kicks off at Evan Evans Tours’ starting point and quickly sets the tone with a pass-by of Big Ben (spending about 10 minutes near), giving you a chance to snap photos or just soak in the view. From there, you’ll glide past the London Eye (another 10-minute pass), where you’ll get a glimpse of the city’s modern skyline.

Next, the bus moves along historic streets with a quick look at Somerset House and Fleet Street, both steeped in tradition and history. Passing by St Paul’s Cathedral (10-minute overview), you’ll be treated to sweeping views of this iconic dome. Crossing the Tower Bridge and passing the Tower of London (both about 10 minutes each), you’ll see London’s medieval and modern architecture side by side.

The route continues along the River Thames, offering postcard-worthy scenes, then makes a brief stop near Westminster Abbey for another quick glimpse. The tour concludes at Victoria train station, making it a convenient end point for further explorations.

Inside Buckingham Palace (Optional)

For those who opt for the Buckingham Palace entry, the experience becomes even more special. You’ll gain access to the State Apartments—the lavish rooms used by the Royal Family—during the months of July to September. This is a rare chance to see royal interiors without the crowds often found during official tours, and it provides a glimpse into royal life that few visitors get to enjoy.

The Food: Afternoon Tea on Wheels

The onboard afternoon tea menu caters to a variety of tastes, with options for both standard and vegan/gluten-free diets. The standard menu includes delicate sandwiches like honey roast gammon with pickled onion, smoked salmon with crème fraiche, cheddar with spring onion, and cucumber with minted butter. These are accompanied by savoury bites such as a truffled sausage roll, followed by sweet treats including chocolate éclairs, fruit tarts, Victoria sponge, and salted caramel brownies.

For those with dietary restrictions, the vegan/gluten-free menu offers creative alternatives, including vegan feta sandwiches, roasted peppers with hummus, and wild mushroom pithivier. The scones are freshly baked, served with Devon Clotted Cream and strawberry jam, completing the quintessential British experience.

The beverage selection features hot teas (English Breakfast, Earl Grey, Chai, and more), espresso coffees made with Lavazza, and cold drinks such as water, apple, and orange juice. For an extra touch of luxury, pre-ordering Prosecco (adults 18+) offers a bubbly addition to your afternoon.

Seating and Comfort

Premium seats are located on the upper deck, either in the front row or near the stairs, offering the best views. Lower deck seats provide a more economical option but may have partially obscured views. The bus is wheelchair accessible on the lower deck, but advance notice is recommended to ensure availability.

Is It Worth It? Analyzing the Value

When considering the price, this tour offers quite a bit for the cost. Not only do you get a guided sightseeing experience, but also an authentic afternoon tea, which is often priced separately at high-end hotels or restaurants. The addition of an optional Buckingham Palace tour further boosts its appeal, especially during the summer months when the State Rooms are open.

Guests have appreciated the knowledgeable guides who make the stories come alive, and the comfort of being on a bus that moves smoothly from one landmark to another. The free Wi-Fi and USB charging are thoughtful touches, making it easier to share your photos or stay connected.

However, some travelers mention that the duration can feel variable—90 minutes if just the basic tour, but up to 4 hours if you include the palace entry and additional options—so planning your day around the schedule is wise. Also, the pass-by nature of the tour means you’ll see landmarks from the outside, which might disappoint those wanting in-depth historical visits.

Practical Tips

• Book early if you want a premium seat or to include Prosecco or the Buckingham Palace tour.
• Check the availability of the palace experience for your travel dates, especially if visiting during peak months (July to September).
• Bring a camera or smartphone with plenty of storage — the views are photogenic!
• Remember that children under 5 are not permitted, so plan accordingly if traveling with family.
• Confirm dietary requirements at least 72 hours in advance to ensure your preferences are accommodated.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a gentle, guided overview of London’s top sights without the hassle of navigating on their own. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking a charming, relaxed afternoon with food and views. The option to include Buckingham Palace makes it especially appealing for royal enthusiasts or those looking to add a touch of elegance to their trip.

Travelers who prefer more interactive or in-depth visits might find this tour slightly superficial, as it’s focused on viewing rather than exploring. Still, the combination of sightseeing, dining, and optional royal interiors offers a well-rounded experience at a reasonable price.

Final Thoughts

The London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour provides a comfortable, scenic, and tasty way to see the city’s most famous landmarks. The onboard guided commentary ensures you learn a thing or two about London’s history while relaxing in style. The afternoon tea, with its thoughtfully curated menu, makes the experience feel indulgent without being overly formal, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

For those wanting a balanced combination of sightseeing, cultural insight, and culinary delight, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially fitting for travelers wanting a low-stress, family-friendly, and authentic way to enjoy the sights, with the bonus of a royal touch during the summer months.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 are not permitted on this tour. It’s best suited for older kids and adults who enjoy sightseeing and a relaxed meal onboard.

How long does the tour last?
The core tour lasts around 90 minutes, but with optional upgrades like Buckingham Palace entry or premium seating, it can extend up to 4 hours.

Can I choose my seat?
Yes, premium seats are located on the upper deck, either in the front row or in front of the stairs. Lower deck seats are more economical but may have limited views.

What dietary options are available?
The tour offers standard and vegan/gluten-free menus. It’s advisable to notify the provider at least 72 hours in advance about dietary requirements.

Is the bus accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the bus has a fully wheelchair accessible table on the lower deck. Contact the provider beforehand to ensure availability.

Do I need to book the Buckingham Palace option separately?
Yes, the palace visit must be selected and booked in advance, available from July to September, and includes access to the State Apartments.

In summary, this tour strikes a lovely balance between sightseeing, comfort, and culinary enjoyment. Its knowledgeable guides and flexible options make it a great choice for travelers looking to combine London’s famous sights with a touch of luxury and ease. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a laid-back way to explore the city, this experience offers genuine value packed with memorable moments.