London: Afternoon Tea Bus with a Glass of Prosecco

Imagine cruising around London on a charming double-decker bus, indulging in a proper afternoon tea, and sipping a glass of bubbly—all in one smooth, fun experience. That’s exactly what you get with the London Afternoon Tea Bus tour offered by Golden Tours. It’s a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and a touch of British tradition, packaged into a 90-minute journey that promises memorable views and tasty bites.

What we love about this experience is how it combines iconic London sights with the cozy charm of afternoon tea. Plus, the addition of Prosecco (or a soft drink if you prefer) makes it feel a little extra special. On the flip side, a possible drawback is that it’s not a guided tour with detailed commentary, so if you’re keen on learning every historical fact, you might find this a bit light on info.

This tour suits those looking for a laid-back way to see the city, enjoy some good food and drink, and do something a bit different from the usual walking or bus tours. It’s especially great for visitors who want to combine sightseeing with a relaxing treat—perfect for friends, couples, or anyone looking to add a touch of fun to their London trip.

Key Points

• Unique experience combining sightseeing and afternoon tea
• Comfortable double-decker bus with great views
• Delicious sweet and savory treats, with optional Prosecco
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, informal tour
• Not a guided commentary tour, so bring your curiosity
• Good value at around $66 per person for 1.5 hours of fun

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

When picturing the afternoon tea bus tour, think of a cozy, lively ride through London, with a backdrop of some of the city’s most famous landmarks. You’ll hop aboard at the Golden Tours stop, noticing the sign on the pink-striped bus that reads “The English Tea Bus”—a cheerful sign that hints at the charming experience ahead.

The route takes you past sights like the Coca-Cola London Eye, the Tower of London, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. While the exact route can change because of traffic or road closures, the main idea is to give you a scenic overview of London’s heart, all while seated comfortably on a double-decker bus.

Inside, the seating is usually on the lower or upper deck, depending on your choice when booking. The upper deck is a real treat if the weather’s nice, offering an open-air feeling and panoramic views. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with a crew dedicated to making sure everyone’s comfortable and well-fed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For your $66, you get a well-rounded afternoon tea experience that includes a selection of homemade finger sandwiches, mini pastries, scones, and cakes—enough to satisfy a craving for both sweet and savory flavors. The treats are described as fresh and delicious, with some reviews praising the quality of the food and the presentation.

You’ll also receive a glass of Prosecco or a soft drink, which is a nice touch that elevates the experience beyond just tea. The staff are attentive and friendly, ensuring your drinks are topped up and your snacks served smoothly.

However, keep in mind that additional food and drinks are not included, and there’s no live guide providing in-depth commentary on the sights—just brief highlights from the staff. Also, no toilets are available onboard, so plan accordingly, especially for longer days.

The Route in Detail

While the exact path can vary, the main highlights are landmarks like the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral—both iconic symbols of London’s history and beauty. The views of the London Eye add a modern touch to the sightseeing, giving you a well-rounded picture of the city’s blend of old and new.

The journey lasts around 1.5 hours, a perfect length to enjoy your treats without feeling rushed. As you cruise through the streets, you’ll enjoy a lively soundtrack and friendly service that makes the whole experience feel special but relaxed.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness of the bus and the quality of the food. One reviewer noted that “the sandwiches couldn’t have been fresher and scones delicious,” which is high praise considering the importance of afternoon tea’s traditional baked goods.

Many write about the friendly, helpful staff—Ameen and Aneesh, in particular, are singled out for their excellent service and cheerful demeanor. One reviewer called them “terrific hosts,” which certainly helped set the tone for a pleasant day.

A common theme is the great views and the fun of the experience. One reviewer mentioned, “It was such a fun experience to see the sights,” capturing how this tour offers a playful alternative to typical sightseeing.

However, some noted minor flaws, such as the commentary running behind, meaning you might see landmarks before hearing about them. Others wished for some more detailed narration or a map to help identify sights better, but overall, most guests see this as a memorable, enjoyable ride.

More Great Tours Nearby

Is It Worth It?

When evaluating the value, the key point is that for $66, you’re not just paying for transportation—you’re paying for a culinary experience combined with sightseeing. The quality of the food and drinks, paired with the relaxed atmosphere and picturesque views, make it a good deal compared to more structured tours that might cost more but offer less in terms of ambiance and comfort.

The lack of guided commentary might be a downside for those wanting historical insights, but if you’re happy to enjoy the scenery and listen to the onboard highlights, it works well. Plus, the positive reviews about the friendly staff and tasty treats suggest that most guests find it well worth the price.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals mostly to those who want a relaxed, fun way to see London. It’s perfect for visitors who enjoy good food, a glass of Prosecco, and a lighthearted tour without the pressure of a formal guide.

It’s also a good choice for groups or couples celebrating special occasions—a birthday or anniversary could be made extra memorable with this charming ride. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates a cozy, social atmosphere, this is a fun pick.

Not Suitable for Everyone

If you have mobility issues, note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible. Also, since no toilets are available onboard, it’s better suited for those comfortable with short periods of limited facilities. Children under 15 need to be accompanied by an adult, and those under 5 are not permitted, making it less ideal for very young kids.

Final Thoughts

The London Afternoon Tea Bus offers a charming, laid-back way to enjoy some of London’s most famous sights while indulging in the quintessentially British tradition of afternoon tea. With delicious food, friendly service, and stunning views, it’s a memorable experience that combines comfort and fun.

If you’re after a light-hearted, social experience—perhaps celebrating a special day or simply wanting a relaxed way to see the city—this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good food, a bit of bubbly, and a cheerful vibe over in-depth historical commentary.

All in all, it’s a worthwhile experience for the right traveler—not the most serious sightseeing tour, but definitely a delightful way to spend an afternoon in London.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult. Under 5s are not allowed, so it’s best suited for teens and older.

Can I choose my seating on the bus?
Yes, depending on your booking option, you can sit on the lower or upper deck. The upper deck is perfect for better views if the weather is nice.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the afternoon tea with sweet and savory treats, a glass of Prosecco or soft drink, and your seat on the bus.

Are there any dietary restrictions?
You need to contact the provider at least 72 hours in advance to specify your menu choice. No special requests can be accommodated, and some dishes may contain nuts.

Is there commentary about the sights?
There is no live guide, but staff will highlight points of interest. Some reviews mentioned the commentary sometimes ran behind, so don’t expect a detailed narration.

Are there any amenities onboard?
No toilets are available on the bus, so plan ahead if needed.

In the end, if you’re after a fun, stylish way to see London with a tasty twist, the Afternoon Tea Bus could be just the thing. It pairs sightseeing with a relaxed, social vibe, making it a unique addition to your London itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: