London: Vintage Bus Tour and London Eye Ticket

This comprehensive tour offers a charming glimpse of London’s most famous landmarks all packed into four hours. From traveling on a classic vintage double-decker bus to cruising along the Thames and finishing atop the London Eye, it’s a well-rounded way to see the city’s highlights.

What we really appreciate is the combination of land and water sightseeing—giving you a multi-dimensional perspective of London’s historic sites. Plus, the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide ensures you not only see the sights but learn something along the way.

One consideration is that the tour is quite busy and involves a lot of moving parts, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy structured sightseeing and don’t mind the crowds. If you’re keen on a relaxed pace or have mobility issues, this might feel a bit fast-paced. However, for first-time visitors eager for an energetic overview, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a fun, informative, and value-packed introduction to London’s iconic attractions. It’s especially ideal for those with limited time but wanting a memorable snapshot of the city’s best.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines vintage bus sightseeing, a Thames cruise, and the London Eye.
• Rich Landmarks: Highlights include Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, and Big Ben.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides add depth and humor to the tour.
• Flexible & Convenient: Includes skip-the-line access and a central meeting point.
• Authentic Transport: Travel on a classic Routemaster double-decker bus, adding nostalgic charm.
• Good Value: For around $129, you get multiple attractions in one tour, making it cost-effective.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at Victoria Coach Station, strategically located just a short walk from Victoria Train Station. This makes it easy to access, especially if you’re arriving by train or coach. The first major highlight is the vintage double-decker bus itself—an authentic Routemaster that instantly transports you back in time while providing excellent open-top views.

The Landmarks You’ll See on the Bus

As the bus begins its journey, the driver and guide will point out many of London’s most recognizable sites. From the outside, you’ll pass the Houses of Parliament, with the twin towers of Big Ben looming overhead. The guide shares tidbits about Parliament’s history, adding context to the sights.

Next, you’ll glide past Westminster Abbey, where many royal ceremonies have taken place. The guide often shares interesting anecdotes, making the exterior visit more memorable. A quick stop often includes a photo opportunity at Westminster Abbey, so you’ll have a chance to capture the moment.

Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard

Depending on the schedule, you might arrive in time for the Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace—a spectacle of precision marching and military music. Reviewers like John, who found the guide very helpful with questions, especially appreciated the insider tips that helped them catch this iconic event.

If the guard change isn’t happening on your day, a photo stop outside the palace offers a chance to snap some photos and soak in the royal ambiance. The guide explains the history and significance of the royal residence, giving you a richer understanding of its role in British life.

Historic Landmarks on the Water

After exploring the land-based sights, you’ll re-board the bus for a short trip along the River Thames. This water segment is a highlight, offering views of sites like Shakespeare’s Globe, the HMS Belfast, and London Bridge—places that look even more impressive from the water. The cruise is relaxed, providing a different visual perspective, and is often described as a peaceful, scenic break from the bus.

Iconic Spots on Dry Land

Back on land, the tour continues past the Tower of London, where the guide shares stories about its long history and role as a royal fortress and treasury. There’s also a stop at Westminster Abbey again for photos and quick insights.

The route takes in St. Paul’s Cathedral, offering a different angle of Wren’s masterpiece. The guide, as several reviewers mentioned, is knowledgeable and makes the experience engaging with humor and interesting facts.

The Final Highlight: The London Eye

The tour culminates with a ticket to the London Eye—one of the city’s most popular attractions. The panoramic capsules allow for 30-minute revolutions, giving you sweeping views of London’s skyline, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey.

You’ll love the perspective from high above the rooftops, especially if the weather is clear. One reviewer liked this part so much they called it “fantastic,” noting the extraordinary vantage point it provides. The experience combines modern engineering with breathtaking scenery, making it a fitting finale.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At roughly $129 per person, this package provides a lot of what makes London memorable. The combination of attractions means you’re not just ticking off sights but also engaging with the city’s history, architecture, and culture. The inclusion of skip-the-line tickets to the London Eye cuts down on waiting, so you gain more time to enjoy the views.

The vintage bus ride adds a nostalgic charm that’s often missing from typical hop-on-hop-off tours. The guide’s knowledge is a highlight—several reviews praised guides like Alan and John for their humor and insights, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

The Practical Side

The tour lasts about four hours, with departure times available depending on your schedule. It’s designed to be a full yet manageable introduction, ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time. The meeting point at Victoria Coach Station is central and accessible, and the tour ends back where it started, simplifying logistics.

Things to Keep in Mind

Since it’s an open-top bus tour, be prepared for British weather—rain is always a possibility. Some days, the open-top bus may switch to a closed-top vehicle, but the experience remains largely the same. Shoes should be comfortable, as there’s some walking involved—especially at stops like Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey.

The tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchairs, given the nature of transportation and stops. Pets and large luggage are also not permitted, so pack accordingly.

Authentic Experiences From Reviewers

Many travelers highlighted the quality of their guides. John, a reviewer, praised his Irish guide for his “excellent” storytelling; others appreciated the guide’s humor and ability to answer questions thoroughly. One traveler remarked, “Delivered with a fantastic insider knowledge & humor,” emphasizing how guides can elevate the experience.

Several reviews also mentioned that the tour felt like a “great overall introduction” to London, with some noting that the views from the London Eye were “fantastic,” offering a unique perspective that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

A minor common concern was the long lines at the London Eye, which can be expected during peak times, but the skip-the-line ticket helps mitigate this issue somewhat.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour is a great choice for first-timers wanting a broad overview of London’s main sights in a single, fun-filled outing. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of land and water sightseeing with a touch of nostalgia. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge help bring the city’s history alive, making the experience more memorable.

It offers excellent value for those who want to see multiple landmarks without the hassle of planning individual visits or transportation. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, it’s a lively and engaging way to kick off your London adventure.

However, if you prefer a leisurely pace or need accessible options, consider the physical demands of walking and standing during stops. Still, for a dynamic, comprehensive introduction to London, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or only adults?
While designed for a wide audience, children should be comfortable with bus rides, some walking, and outdoor viewing. Check with the provider for age restrictions or recommendations.

How long is the London Eye ride included in the tour?
The London Eye capsule takes approximately 30 minutes to complete a full rotation, offering panoramic views of London.

Do I need to book tickets separately for the London Eye?
No, the ticket to the London Eye is included with the tour, allowing you to skip the lines and go directly to enjoy the ride.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as well as weather-appropriate clothing, since the bus is open-top and the weather in London can be unpredictable.

Can I join the tour if I have mobility impairments or use a wheelchair?
This tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, due to the nature of the transportation and stops.

What happens if the Changing of the Guard isn’t scheduled for that day?
If the guard change doesn’t take place, the guide will arrange a photo stop at Buckingham Palace instead, so you still get a good view of the residence.

This London vintage bus tour, Thames cruise, and London Eye combination strikes a nice balance between sightseeing, learning, and fun. It’s a memorable way to get your bearings in one of the world’s most iconic cities—perfect for those wanting a lively, insightful, and visually stunning introduction to London.