Vintage Double Decker Bus Tour & Thames River Cruise

This combination tour offers a charming way to see the highlights of London, blending a ride on a classic Routemaster double-decker bus with a short cruise along the Thames. Priced at around $83.51 per person and lasting about 3.5 hours, it’s designed to give you a broad overview of the city’s most famous sights.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how seamlessly it combines land and water perspectives — a fantastic way to appreciate London’s iconic landmarks from different angles. The vintage bus, with its nostalgic charm, makes the journey feel more authentic than a standard sightseeing bus. Plus, the inclusion of the Thames cruise adds a little variety to the day’s sightseeing.

One thing to consider is that the tour is an open-top bus, meaning you’ll want to be prepared for possible rain, common in London. Also, since it’s a group tour, the experience might feel a little rushed if you’re a slow walker or prefer more time at each stop. It’s best suited for those who want a manageable, overview-style glimpse of London without spending a whole day on multiple separate activities.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors eager to tick off major sights with minimal hassle, or any traveler looking for a fun and visually appealing way to see London’s top landmarks in a short amount of time.

Key Points

• Authentic vintage charm: Riding a classic Routemaster double-decker bus adds a nostalgic touch to London sightseeing.
• Comprehensive sightseeing: See major landmarks like Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace.
• Water perspective: The Thames cruise offers a unique view of the city’s riverside attractions, including Shakespeare’s Globe and London Bridge.
• Knowledgeable guides: Reviewers highlight guides like Steve, Clive, and Gavin for their energy and depth of knowledge.
• Flexible scheduling: Check the availability for different starting times; check-in begins 15 minutes beforehand.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for mobility-impaired or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

This tour promises a lively and picturesque overview of London, broken into two distinct parts: a vintage bus ride and a river cruise. Starting from Victoria Coach Station, only a short walk from Victoria Train Station, the journey begins with a classic Routemaster double-decker bus that whisks you through London’s streets.

The bus route is designed to maximize views of iconic sites such as Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. Travelers often note how the open-top experience makes for perfect photo opportunities, especially on clear days. As one reviewer said, “The bus ride was great! Steve had a massive depth of history to share with us,” highlighting the engaging commentary from knowledgeable guides.

Next, the tour takes a short trip along the Thames River, passing notable landmarks like Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Cleopatra’s Needle, and London Bridge. While the river cruise isn’t lengthy, reviewers appreciated the change of scenery and how the water-level perspective offered fresh views of the city’s riverside architecture. One reviewer noted, “It was all quite good, it would be nice if the windows on the river cruise were clean enough to see out,” pointing out that visibility can sometimes be affected by weather or window cleanliness.

Following the river segment, the bus heads toward Westminster Pier, where travelers can enjoy the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. Finding a good spot to watch this colorful event is a highlight for many, with guides like Clive receiving praise for making the experience fun and informative.

Throughout the tour, the guides’ enthusiasm and expert knowledge stand out. Several reviews mention how guides like Gavin, Clive, and Steve make the experience memorable, sharing a mix of historical facts and lively commentary. “Gavin was so lively and amazing,” one reviewer remarked, “It was refreshing to learn about London from someone so passionate.”

What to Expect at Each Stop

Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament: From the bus, you’ll get close-up views of these historic icons. While you might not go inside, the grandeur of Westminster’s exterior is impressive, and your guide will fill you in on their stories.

St. Paul’s Cathedral: The guide points out Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, where Nelson and Wellington are buried, and where Princess Diana married Charles. Though not part of this tour’s entry, the exterior view is striking from the bus.

Tower of London: Built nearly 1,000 years ago, this fortress is home to the Crown Jewels and guarded by Beefeaters. The tour mentions Traitors Gate where prisoners entered historically, offering a glimpse into its storied past.

Thames River cruise: Passing Shakespeare’s Globe, Cleopatra’s Needle, and London Bridge, this segment provides a water-based perspective on London’s skyline, appreciated by those who enjoy scenic views. Reviewers often note the fun of seeing familiar sights from a different angle.

Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard: After returning to the bus, the tour moves to the palace where you can line up early for the best view of the Changing of the Guard, a lively and colorful ceremony. Guides like Clive are praised for their narration during this event.

The Pros and Cons Based on Real Feedback

Pros:

• Guides like Steve, Clive, and Gavin are described as knowledgeable, energetic, and engaging, making the tour more entertaining.
• The vintage Routemaster bus provides a charming, photo-worthy experience that adds a nostalgic vibe.
• The combination of bus and river cruise offers varied perspectives and makes efficient use of time.
• The tour covers a broad range of sights, ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick overview.

Cons:

• The Thames cruise sometimes faces visibility issues due to weather or window cleanliness, as noted by guests.
• The open-top bus can be uncomfortable in rain, which is quite common London weather.
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users, which could limit accessibility.
• Some reviews mention that parts of the tour, like the Thames cruise, can be canceled or less informative due to weather or operational reasons.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price point, this tour offers reasonable value for a quick, visually engaging overview of London. The inclusion of guides who are often praised for their storytelling adds a personal touch, while the vintage bus lends a special atmosphere that’s hard to replicate on modern tours.

The short Thames cruise is a lovely bonus, but it’s worth checking in advance if weather might affect visibility or experience. For those who enjoy photo opportunities, historic sights, and a relaxed pace, this tour hits the right notes.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors eager to get their bearings and see major sights with minimal fuss. It’s also perfect for those who love nostalgic transportation and water views. Travelers comfortable with walking and standing in potentially damp weather will get the most from it.

If you’re someone who appreciates lively storytelling and scenic photos, the guides make this a trip worth considering. However, if you’re looking for in-depth historical visits or accessibility for mobility-impaired travelers, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

This vintage double-decker bus and Thames River cruise combo offers a lively, picturesque way to get a broad sense of London’s most famous landmarks. With friendly guides, a nostalgic bus ride, and a short cruise, you’re treated to a variety of views and stories that bring the city’s history to life.

It’s a practical choice for those who want a manageable, fun introduction to London without the commitment of full-day tours or extensive walking. The authentic vintage bus experience creates great photo opportunities and a fun atmosphere, while the river cruise adds a pleasant water perspective to the skyline.

While weather and visibility can be a factor, most travelers find the overall experience charming and worthwhile. This tour strikes a good balance between entertainment, education, and sightseeing, making it an excellent option for first-timers or anyone looking for a memorable, quick overview of London’s highlights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families? Yes, many families enjoy the tour, especially those interested in seeing the major sights from a fun, relaxed perspective. Just note that it involves some walking and standing.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during busy travel seasons, to ensure availability.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes are advised since you’ll be walking and standing; bring rain gear or an umbrella, as it’s an open-top bus and London weather can be unpredictable.

Can I join the tour at a different time? The tour departs at specified times, and availability varies, so check the schedule beforehand.

Is the Thames cruise included in the price? Yes, a short trip along the River Thames is part of the package.

Are the guides knowledgeable? Yes, reviews consistently highlight guides like Steve, Clive, and Gavin for their enthusiastic and informative narration.

Is there any flexibility with refunds? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing some peace of mind in case of changing plans.

In essence, this tour offers a lively, nostalgic, and scenic way to see London’s most iconic sights, with friendly guides and a fun vintage vibe. Perfect for first-time visitors or those wanting a quick, memorable day in the city.