London Scenic Lunch Tour: A Gastronomic Adventure

London Scenic Lunch Tour: A Gastronomic Adventure

Imagine eating a delicious, multi-course meal while gliding past London’s most famous landmarks — all from the comfort of a window-lined double-decker bus. That’s exactly what the London Scenic Lunch Tour offers. This 2-hour experience combines sightseeing with a gourmet meal, set aboard the innovative Bustronome, a bus designed specifically for high-end dining on the move. With a mix of British and French-inspired dishes, optional wine pairings, and unbeatable views, it promises a memorable way to enjoy London’s sights.

What we really love about this experience is how it marries two passions — food and sightseeing — into one seamless journey. The panoramic glass windows make it easy to soak up the city’s sights without leaving your seat, and the carefully curated menu suggests a level of quality that’s rare in mobile dining. However, it’s worth noting that at around $96 per person, this isn’t the cheapest way to see London, so it’s best suited for special occasions or those looking to indulge a little.

One potential consideration is the route and timing. While the bus is designed to offer unimpeded views, the itinerary can change due to local events or road closures, like one reviewer noted during a big football match. If you’re someone who prefers a fixed schedule with detailed commentary, this might feel a little less structured than some guided tours. Still, if you’re after a relaxed, luxe experience with gorgeous vistas, this tour ticks all those boxes.

This scenic lunch tour appeals most to travelers seeking a unique way to combine gourmet dining with iconic London scenery — perfect for celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just treating yourself to a memorable midday outing.

Key Points

• Unique dining experience: Combines a gourmet 4-course meal with sightseeing from a specially designed double-decker bus.
• Stunning views: Panoramic glass windows offer unobstructed views of London’s landmarks like Tower of London and Piccadilly Circus.
• Flexible upgrade options: Wine pairings are available, elevating the experience for wine lovers.
• Ideal for special occasions: Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or a luxurious midday treat.
• Limited group size: Max of 38 travelers ensures a more intimate atmosphere.
• Valuable for the price: Although not the cheapest, most reviews mention excellent food, service, and scenery, making it a good value for a splurge.

The Experience in Detail

The Itinerary and Starting Point

The tour begins at 25 Victoria Gardens on Victoria Embankment, a prime location close to many of London’s central sights. The meeting point at Embankment (Stop 40b) is easily accessible via public transportation, making it convenient for most travelers.

Once aboard the Bustronome, you’re welcomed into a dining room with expansive glass windows that wrap around the bus. It feels more like dining in a chic restaurant than a typical sightseeing bus. The atmosphere, as described by a reviewer, is akin to a casual Parisian bistro — friendly, relaxed, but with a touch of class.

Sightseeing and Route

The route is designed to showcase London’s most famous landmarks in a relaxed setting. As you cruise past sights like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Piccadilly Circus, the bus’s panoramic windows let you take in the sights without the hustle of crowds or street noise.

One reviewer appreciated the unimpeded views, noting that the bus’s special design allows for “crystal-clear” vistas of the city’s most interesting monuments. However, it’s worth noting that the route can be affected by local events, such as sports matches or road closures. For example, a group mentioned the route had to be adjusted during a big football game, which affected their sightseeing.

The Gourmet Meal

The highlight is clearly the 4-course gourmet menu. Created by experienced chefs, the menu features dishes inspired by British produce with a French twist. Guests can expect a high-quality meal that’s more akin to fine dining than typical pub fare — think elegant presentations and thoughtfully chosen ingredients.

A major plus is the option to upgrade with wine pairings, selected to complement each course. Reviews mention the wines as well-chosen and enhancing the meal rather than overpowering it, adding a layer of sophistication to the experience.

The Food and Service

While the meal itself is a key attraction, the service is also highly praised. Hosts and staff are described as attentive and friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere. One reviewer emphasized that from the moment of arrival to the final course, the experience was “first class,” thanks in part to the staff and the chef’s attention to detail.

Overall Value

Given the combination of gourmet food, beautiful views, and a unique setting, many find this experience to be excellent value for money. At roughly $96, it’s more expensive than most typical lunch options, but for many, the memorable nature of the experience justifies the cost.

Honorable Mentions from Reviews

• Several guests highlighted the delicious food and well-curated wine pairings.
• The panoramic views were described as “amazing,” making it easy to feel immersed in London’s highlights.
• Guests celebrating birthdays or special occasions found it to be “a classy trip,” ideal for a memorable celebration.
• Some reviewers noted the intimacy of the group size — maximum of 38 people — which fosters a cozy, less crowded environment.

Things to Keep in Mind

• The tour is around 2 hours long, so it’s a short but immersive experience.
• The route may change due to traffic or local events, which can affect what you see.
• It’s best suited for those who value gourmet food and scenic views over in-depth historical commentary.
• Booking in advance is recommended, with most guests reserving about 41 days beforehand.
• The tour is accessible for service animals and is suitable for most travelers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those seeking a luxurious, fun, and visually stunning way to explore London during lunch. It’s ideal if you’re celebrating a special day, want a memorable activity without leaving the city, or enjoy gourmet food with a view. While it’s not the cheapest sightseeing option, the quality of the food and the exclusivity of the setting make it worthwhile for a mid-range splurge.

It also suits travelers who appreciate flexible sightseeing, as the route may vary, but everyone gets a good look at London’s most iconic sights from a different perspective. If you love wine, the upgrade option is a big plus, providing a more refined experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, some reviewers mentioned enjoying vegetarian options, which were described as well-prepared and tasty.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the 2-hour scenic tour, the 4-course meal, and optional wine pairings if selected. It’s a mobile ticket, so you can go straight to the bus.

How many people are typically on the tour?
The maximum group size is 38 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and intimate.

What landmarks will I see?
While the route can change, you’ll pass key sights like Tower of London and Piccadilly Circus, providing a broad view of central London.

Is this experience accessible for those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s advised to check specific accessibility needs with the provider.

Can I bring service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

What should I wear?
Since the experience is outdoors on a bus, dress comfortably but be prepared for typical London weather — layers and rain protection are always wise.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it perfect for a lunchtime break.

What’s the best time to book?
Most guests book around 41 days in advance, especially if visiting during peak seasons or for special celebrations.

Final Thoughts

The London Scenic Lunch Tour with Bustronome offers a rare blend of culinary excellence, stunning city views, and relaxed sightseeing. It’s ideal for those wanting to elevate their London visit with a memorable, sophisticated experience that feels both special and intimate. While not a budget activity, the quality of the food, the beautiful vistas, and the exclusive atmosphere make it a worthwhile splurge for many travelers.

Perfect for celebratory occasions, romantic dates, or simply indulging in a different way to see London, this tour combines the best of both worlds — a delicious meal and a scenic overview of one of the world’s most vibrant cities. If you’re after an experience that’s both visually spectacular and gastronomically satisfying, this is definitely worth considering.

The Bustronome Scenic Lunch Tour delivers a distinctive, enjoyable way to enjoy London’s famous sights with the bonus of a gourmet meal. It’s best suited for travelers who value quality and comfort and are looking for a unique, memorable outing during their city stay.