London Christmas Lights Tour by Vintage Double-Decker Bus

London Christmas Lights Tour by Vintage Double-Decker Bus: A Festive Ride Through the City

Taking in London’s stunning Christmas lights from the top of a classic vintage double-decker bus sounds like a holiday postcard come to life—except this tour offers more than just picturesque views. It’s a cozy, 1.5 to 2-hour adventure through some of London’s most famous streets, illuminated with dazzling holiday displays. With a knowledgeable guide and a nostalgic bus, this experience is perfect for those wanting a relaxed way to see the city’s festive sparkle without battling crowds or wandering aimlessly.

What I love about this tour is how it combines sightseeing with the charm of riding on a historic bus, offering a different perspective on London’s iconic landmarks. Plus, seeing the lights from an open-air upper deck really amplifies the magic of Christmas in London. That said, it’s worth noting the tour can be cold—remember to bundle up, especially if you opt for the open top. This experience works best for visitors who want a festive, comfortable ride combined with some sightseeing, especially if they’re short on time or prefer not to walk long distances in the chilly winter air.

Key Points

• Unique Viewpoint: See London’s Christmas lights from the open upper deck of a vintage bus, giving you a special vantage point many miss.
• Comfort & Safety: The driver handles the busy city traffic, allowing you to relax and enjoy the sights.
• Highlights & Landmarks: From Trafalgar Square’s Christmas tree to Big Ben and Oxford Street, the route covers London’s top festive spots.
• Informative Commentary: Get insights into the sights from an engaging, local guide, adding depth to your experience.
• Weather Considerations: Be prepared for cold weather; layering and blankets are highly recommended.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 38 travelers, the tour offers an intimate atmosphere, but seating on the upper deck isn’t guaranteed.

Exploring the Tour in Detail

The Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at Victoria Coach Station, a convenient hub close to public transportation. It lasts roughly between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions—so you get plenty of time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. The route can change slightly due to traffic or city events, which is common in London during the holiday season. Expect a maximum of 38 travelers, making it a manageable group where you can enjoy some personal space, especially on the open upper deck.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour is packed with photo-worthy moments and historical tidbits. Here’s what you can expect:

Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree: The tour begins with a stop at the famous Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square—an annual gift from Norway that’s a must-see during the holidays. One reviewer described it as a “beautiful” sight, capturing the festive spirit.

Luxury Department Store & Piccadilly Circus Lights: You’ll pass by the elaborately decorated department stores and catch the impressive Christmas lights illuminating Piccadilly Circus. One traveler noted that the lights are “big and beautiful,” and the night-time setting enhances their brilliance.

Big Ben & Westminster: The sight of Big Ben glowing in the night is a highlight, with the added bonus of passing by Westminster Abbey—a building described as “a living record of British history.” Guides often include snippets of royal and political history during the commentary, making the experience both visual and educational.

Shopping Streets & Major Venues: The bus glides along iconic shopping streets like Oxford Street and Regent Street, famous for their elaborate Christmas displays. Several reviews mention the lights and the vibrant festive atmosphere, making it clear this is a visual feast.

Wellington House & Additional Landmarks: The tour also takes you past London townhouses and areas with historical significance, giving you a broader sense of the city’s holiday decor and architecture.

The Experience of Riding on a Vintage Bus

Traveling on a restored 50-year-old vintage bus isn’t just about transportation—it’s about capturing a nostalgic vibe. The open-air upper deck allows for unobstructed views, which many find preferable for photos and soaking in the atmosphere. Some reviews emphasized the “gorgeous views” and “big and beautiful” lights, especially when seated upstairs.

However, the open top can be chilly—many travelers recommend bringing layers, hats, gloves, and even blankets if you’re sensitive to cold. One reviewer, Jill, rated it a “5/5” despite the freezing weather, noting that the views made it worthwhile. Another reviewer, Fiona, praised the “brilliant” guide but mentioned that a hot cocoa would have been a nice touch to stay warm.

Commentary & Guides

The lively commentary is a major plus. Guides are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and entertaining—adding context about the sights, some historical details, and fun facts about London’s royal and architectural landmarks. Several reviewers appreciated the guide’s engaging storytelling, which made the tour more than just a visual display.

Some reviews, however, pointed out issues like poor microphone quality or noise from other passengers. For example, one traveler mentioned that the microphone broke below freezing temperatures, making it hard to hear on the first level. Others said that the guide’s commentary was “helpful with background and history,” making the experience educational as well as scenic.

The Downsides and Limitations

While many reviews highlight the beauty of the lights and the fun of riding on a vintage bus, a few common concerns emerge. Some guests found the tour somewhat underwhelming in terms of the Christmas lights—describing it more as a general London night tour with lights as a bonus. One review pointed out that the lights in Regent Street were “half off” or not as vibrant, which could depend on timing or other city events.

Weather is another consideration. Since the bus is open, especially on the upper deck, it can get very cold—particularly in December evenings. A few travelers noted the lack of heating or blankets available on the bus, so dressing warmly is essential.

Group size is limited, but seating on the upper deck isn’t guaranteed, which can affect your viewing experience. Also, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to and from the meeting point.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price of around $44, this tour offers good value for those looking to combine sightseeing with a festive experience. For the cost, you get to ride in style on a vintage bus, see some of London’s most iconic landmarks lit up for Christmas, and enjoy informative commentary. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a relaxed, guided overview rather than wandering around on their own.

However, if you’re expecting a full-on Christmas lights extravaganza with houses and neighborhoods decorated, this might not fully meet those expectations. The focus is primarily on major streets and landmarks, with Christmas lights being a highlight rather than the entire experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits visitors who enjoy a cozy, guided experience with memorable views of London’s holiday lights. It’s ideal for those short on time, wanting to avoid the hassle of walking long distances in the cold, or seeking a nostalgic journey through the city. It’s also great if you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a relaxed, group environment.

On the flip side, if you’re a light enthusiast eager to see neighborhoods decorated or want a more intimate, private experience, you might find this tour a bit commercial or surface-level. Also, the open top makes it less suitable for those sensitive to cold weather or with very young children in strollers—some reviews mention the bus being too old for families with buggies.

Final Thoughts

The London Christmas Lights Tour on a vintage double-decker bus offers a charming, festive way to see London at night. The combination of iconic landmarks, dazzling lights, and a nostalgic vehicle makes it a memorable holiday activity. While some may find the weather challenging or feel the lights aren’t as spectacular as hoped, most reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning views as major positives.

If you’re after a scenic, relaxing, and somewhat nostalgic way to enjoy London’s Christmas atmosphere, this tour is worth considering. It provides a good balance of sightseeing, entertainment, and festive cheer, especially when bundled with warm layers and a sense of adventure.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for families with young children?
The vintage bus is quite old and doesn’t have space for child buggies, so it might not be ideal for very young children or families with strollers.

Does the tour include hotel pickup or drop-off?
No, the tour begins at Victoria Coach Station, and there’s no hotel transfer included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What should I wear?
Layering is essential. Expect it to be cold, especially on the open upper deck. Hats, gloves, and blankets are recommended to stay comfortable.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions, which can vary during the busy holiday period.

Can I guarantee a seat upstairs?
No, seating on the upper deck is not guaranteed, but the view from up top is usually worth the effort. Arriving early can improve your chances.

What sights will I see?
You’ll see Trafalgar Square’s Christmas tree, the illuminated department stores, Piccadilly Circus, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Oxford Street’s and Regent Street’s Christmas lights, and pass by prominent landmarks like Wellington House.

Is the commentary helpful?
Yes, most travelers find the live commentary engaging and informative, adding context to the sights and history. However, some experienced guides or microphone issues can affect clarity.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is largely dependent on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’re offered a different date or a full refund.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Londoner, this vintage bus tour offers a joyful, panoramic glimpse of the city during its most magical time of year. Just remember to bundle up and prepare for a cozy, festive ride.