London Afternoon Tea Bus with Panoramic Tour

If you’re craving a cozy, quintessentially British way to see London, the London Afternoon Tea Bus offers a charming mix of sightseeing and indulgence. This tour takes you on a bright pink double-decker bus through some of London’s most famous landmarks, all while serving a delightful spread of afternoon tea—think scones, sandwiches, pastries, and a glass of prosecco or soft drink. The experience is designed to blend cultural charm with a relaxed, social vibe, making it a popular pick for first-timers and those looking for a bit of fun during their stay.

What we love about this experience is its unmatched perspective—sitting on the top deck of a bus provides panoramic views of London’s skyline, from Buckingham Palace to the London Eye, without the crowds on foot. Plus, the combination of sightseeing and afternoon tea is practically a London tradition, making this tour an enjoyable, lighthearted way to get your bearings in the city.

One potential consideration is the lack of guided narration, which some travelers find disappointing if they were hoping for a detailed historical commentary. Instead, many reviews note that the focus is more on the social and scenic aspects, with some guests wishing for more storytelling or insight into the passing sights.

This tour suits those who want a relaxed, social experience—perfect for families, friends, or couples wanting a memorable way to explore London with a touch of elegance. If you’re after a traditional sightseeing tour with in-depth commentary, this may not be your best bet. But if you’re looking for a fun, photo-friendly, delicious way to see the city, you’ll probably love it.

Key Points

• Unobstructed city views from the upper deck of a bright pink double-decker bus.
• Combines sightseeing with a traditional British afternoon tea experience.
• A social, relaxed outing ideal for groups, families, or couples.
• Limited narration might leave some wanting more historical insight.
• Great value for the price, considering the food, drinks, and scenic transport.
• Weather-proof as it’s suitable for any season, thanks to the bus.

What to Expect on the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at the Golden Tours’ Bulleid Way Departure Point, located conveniently close to public transport. Once onboard, you’ll settle into your seat—preferably up on the top deck for the best views—and prepare for a 90-minute journey through London’s heart.

The main highlight is the panoramic ride past iconic sights such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, Trafalgar Square, and the vibrant Piccadilly Circus. While some reviewers mention a lack of detailed commentary, the route itself offers plenty to see from the open-air upper deck, especially if you’re a fan of cityscapes and architecture.

The Food and Drink

The centerpiece of this experience is the afternoon tea, served from a classic silver stand, featuring mini sandwiches like salmon and cream cheese, hummus with falafel, and other tasty bites. Sweets include assorted mini pastries and British scones with jam and clotted cream—a true taste of tradition.

Guests often comment on the quality of the food, with some reviewers describing it as “delicious” and plentiful enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. The choice of tea or coffee is standard, but the highlight is the glass of prosecco or soft drink that adds a celebratory touch, making this a more festive, social affair.

The Scenic Highlights

Many reviews emphasize how great the views are from the top deck—you can snap photos of Buckingham Palace’s gates, catch a glimpse of Westminster Abbey’s gothic spires, and even enjoy the lively atmosphere of Piccadilly Circus from a unique vantage point. Since you’re moving through different neighborhoods, you’ll get a feel for London’s diverse districts without the hassle of walking or navigating busy streets.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Spectacular views that are best experienced from the open upper deck.
– Comfortable, lively atmosphere with friendly staff who handle drinks and snacks efficiently.
– Good value considering the scenic transport and quality food included.
– Flexible for weather—being on a bus means you’re protected from rain or cold, unlike open-top walking tours.

Cons:
– The lack of detailed narration might leave sightseers wanting more context about what they’re passing.
– Some guests have noted rough rides or squeaky brakes, which can detract from the experience.
– Limited restroom access on the bus itself—important to keep in mind for longer outings.
– Seating is shared and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so securing the best spot might require arriving early.

Deep Dive into the Route and Experience

Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey

Your tour kicks off close to Golden Tours’ departure point and heads through the West End, passing by Buckingham Palace. It’s a visual treat—especially if you catch the Changing of the Guard, if your timing aligns. Many reviews highlight the photo opportunities here, with some noting that you can get a good shot of the Palace gates right from the bus.

Next, the route sweeps past Westminster Abbey, an impressive gothic structure that has witnessed over a thousand years of British history. While there’s no guided narration, the sight alone is worth a quick glance and some photos.

The London Eye and South Bank

Driving along the Thames, you’ll see the London Eye, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The views from the upper deck are spectacular, especially if the weather is clear. Several reviewers shared that seeing the city from above offers a fresh perspective, and some appreciated the photo opportunities with the Eye and the surrounding South Bank.

Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square

Passing through the West End, you’ll glimpse Piccadilly Circus, buzzing with neon lights and crowds. The bright, lively atmosphere of this area makes for memorable photos. Just around the corner is Trafalgar Square, with its iconic fountains and statues, a must-see for any London visitor.

The Final Stretch

The tour wraps up back at the starting point, providing a convenient, central location to continue exploring or grab a meal. Reviewers like Mark_W mentioned that the whole experience exceeded expectations, especially during chilly months when being on a heated bus with a warm drink was a bonus.

The Food and Beverage Experience

The afternoon tea served on the bus is a classic touch. Expect mini sandwiches with fillings like salmon and cream cheese, hummus and falafel, and other flavors. Scones with jam and clotted cream are a highlight, often described as “delicious” and satisfying. The pastries and desserts add a sweet finish, with some guests noting they were “great” but not necessarily gourmet.

Guests are also served a glass of prosecco or soft drink, adding a festive note to the experience. Several reviews, like “Prosecco, tea, and scones – what else do you need?” reflect how the drinks elevate the relaxed, social vibe.

Logistics: Seating, Timing, and Tips

The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, departing from Bulleid Way, a location that’s accessible via public transportation. Upper seats are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is advisable if you want the best views. The buses operate on a shared basis, meaning you might share tables with other guests, adding to the social feel.

While the tour is suitable for most travelers, note that children aged 5 and above can participate, and those under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Be aware that there are no restrooms onboard, so plan accordingly.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible enough if your plans change unexpectedly.

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $67.63 per person, this experience packs in sightseeing, food, and drinks. Considering the value of the scenery—seeing key landmarks from a vantage point that’s hard to beat—many reviewers feel it’s worthwhile. Some mention that it’s an excellent way to get a quick orientation in London, especially if you’re short on time or want a more relaxed alternative to walking tours.

However, some guests found the food average and the narration lacking, which may influence your decision if you’re seeking a deeply educational experience. But for those valuing scenic views, social atmosphere, and a touch of luxury, it delivers on all fronts.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of London’s highlights without the hassle of navigating busy streets. It also suits families and groups looking for a fun, memorable activity that combines sightseeing with a traditional British meal. If you enjoy social experiences with good food and drinks while exploring from a comfortable vantage point, you’ll likely find this tour charming.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking historic narration, detailed guides, or quiet contemplation—the focus is more on the fun of the ride and the scenery. Also, if you’re a serious foodie or history buff, you might prefer other options with more in-depth commentary or gourmet meals.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 5 and above are welcome, but those under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

How long is the tour?
The journey lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, including sightseeing and meal service.

Can I choose a specific seat on the bus?
Seats are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early increases your chances of sitting on the upper deck.

What’s included in the package?
You get afternoon tea with mini sandwiches, pastries, scones with jam and cream, plus a glass of prosecco or soft drink, and a choice of tea or coffee.

Are there restroom facilities onboard?
No, there are no restrooms on the bus, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
The bus provides shelter, making it suitable for any weather, but outdoor sightseeing is best on clear days for photos.

What if I miss the bus?
The buses operate on a schedule, and missing it isn’t uncommon if you’re not early; contact the tour provider for assistance in such cases.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

The London Afternoon Tea Bus offers a unique way to see the city from a high vantage point—literally from the top deck of a brightly colored double-decker. While it doesn’t provide in-depth commentary, it excels in scenic views, good food, and a fun, social atmosphere. Guests consistently praise the friendly staff, the delicious afternoon tea, and the picturesque routes that make it a memorable outing.

This tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed, engaging way to explore London without the pressure of walking or traditional guided tours. It works especially well during chilly or drizzly days, thanks to the shelter provided by the bus.

If you’re after a light-hearted, scenic experience with a touch of British tradition, this tour could be just the ticket. However, if detailed storytelling or luxury dining is your priority, you might want to explore other options.

In essence, this tour is a lively, enjoyable blend of sightseeing and eating, ideal for relaxed sightseeing with friends, family, or even a special date in London.