London: The Snowman Afternoon Tea Bus Christmas Tour

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy London during the holiday season that mixes iconic sights with a warm, cozy atmosphere, the Snowman Afternoon Tea Bus Tour might just catch your eye. It’s a popular experience that offers a charming blend of sightseeing, music, and tasty seasonal treats—all aboard a decorated bus that feels like stepping into a holiday storybook.

We’ve seen quite a few reviews about this experience, and what really shines are the stunning views of London’s landmarks shimmering under Christmas lights and the delightful themed menu inspired by The Snowman. On the flip side, some mention that the route can be short or affected by traffic, which is something to keep in mind if you’re after a longer or more relaxed outing.

This experience tends to suit those who love festive decorations, enjoy holiday music, and want a bit of indulgence with their sightseeing. It’s especially nice for anyone wanting a cozy, picture-worthy Christmas activity—whether you’re visiting London for the first time or just looking for a festive twist on your usual city tour.

Key Points

• Festive atmosphere: The bus is decorated for Christmas, adding a warm holiday vibe.
• Iconic sights: See Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, and more, especially during the evening when lights are at their best.
• Themed menu: Indulge in scones, sandwiches, cupcakes, and Snowman truffles—plus options for different dietary needs.
• Music and sing-alongs: Enjoy classic Christmas carols and tunes from The Snowman soundtrack, creating a joyful, immersive experience.
• Flexible departure points: Choose between London Eye or Aldwych, with timings fitting around a West End show if you like.
• Pre-purchased extras: Upgrade to include bubbly or festive cocktails—perfect for adding a little extra sparkle.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

When you book this experience, you’re signing up for a one-hour journey through Central London on a charming, decorated bus. The route is designed to maximize your Christmas spirit, especially if you opt for an evening departure when the city’s lights are fully on display. The bus departs from either the London Eye or Aldwych, depending on your ticket choice.

The sights on the route are classic London landmarks: Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, and possibly more depending on traffic and route changes. During the evening, you’ll get the added bonus of seeing London’s spectacular Christmas displays—Oxford Street’s sparkling stars and Regent Street’s angels are particularly photogenic.

One of the highlights is the soundtrack—songs from The Snowman film and traditional Christmas carols—which plays throughout, making the atmosphere lively and festive. If you’re into singing along, you’ll find yourself joining in, especially with the familiar melodies.

The food and drink component is thoughtfully curated. You’ll be served a delicate afternoon tea featuring finger sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, and delightful festive cupcakes and Snowball truffles. Many reviewers appreciate that options are available for different diets, including vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free. You can also upgrade your experience with hot chocolate topped with whipped cream or even a glass of prosecco or mulled wine.

The Route and Sights – What You’ll See

The itinerary is straightforward but well-chosen for the holiday season. Starting from either the London Eye or Aldwych, the bus takes you through the heart of the city, where the Christmas lights and decorations are at their best. Expect to see some of London’s most iconic landmarks, beautifully decorated and illuminated, really capturing the holiday spirit.

During the evening departures, the tour is especially magical. You’ll enjoy views of Oxford Street and Regent Street, both glimmering with festive lights and decorations. The soundtrack of classic Christmas carols adds to the cozy, joyful feeling, and many reviews highlight how special this makes the experience.

However, some reviews point out that the route can be affected by traffic or road closures, so the actual sightseeing might vary slightly. The route is subject to change, which is common in city tours, but it generally aims to maximize holiday views.

Food and Drinks – The Themed Menu

The afternoon tea menu is designed to be both festive and satisfying. Expect traditional finger sandwiches—usually ham, chicken, or veggie options—alongside scones with jam and cream. The sweet treats include Christmas cupcakes, Snowball truffles, and some type of brownie or similar dessert.

Many reviewers mention that the food quality is good, with some praising the cupcakes and sweets for their flavor and presentation. The menu caters to a range of dietary requirements, which makes it more inclusive. The option to upgrade your drinks—with hot chocolate topped with marshmallows or even bubbly—adds a layer of indulgence that many find worthwhile.

It’s worth noting that some reviews mention the portion sizes may feel a bit small, especially if you’re expecting a substantial meal. For the price point, many say it’s a bit on the pricey side, but the festive setting and views often justify the cost for those seeking a special seasonal experience.

The Overall Experience – Pros & Cons

Pros:
– The beautiful decorations and festive atmosphere make it feel truly Christmas.
– You get to see London’s iconic landmarks with minimal walking, ideal for those who prefer relaxed sightseeing.
– The music and sing-alongs add a fun, communal vibe—especially if you love Christmas tunes.
– The menu is thoughtfully curated with dietary options, and the food is generally well-reviewed.
– Upgrades like prosecco or cocktails help elevate the experience.

Cons:
– The route can be short or affected by traffic, which might leave some feeling it’s not long enough.
– Some reviews mention window cleanliness issues, making photos tricky.
– The cost can seem high for what’s essentially a one-hour tour and light refreshments.
– No toilets are available on the bus, so plan accordingly.
– Seating arrangements might involve sharing tables, which could be less desirable for some.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who delights in Christmas lights, festive music, and a warm atmosphere, this tour will likely suit you. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or even friends who want a cozy, memorable way to soak in the holiday spirit without too much effort.

It’s also a good pick if you’re looking for a unique, themed experience that combines sightseeing with a delicious treat. If your goal is a longer, more immersive tour, or a substantial meal, you might find this a bit limited in scope.

Travelers who enjoy photo opportunities will want to consider that window cleanliness could impact daytime sightseeing shots, but the evening’s lights make for great snapshots regardless.

Final Thoughts

The Snowman Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers a charming way to celebrate Christmas in London. It combines the joy of seasonal sights, festive music, and tasty treats in a setting that feels intimate and cheerful. While some might find the route a little short or the price a tad high, the overall experience is warm, visually stunning, and fun.

This tour really shines for those who want a cozy, picture-perfect Christmas activity without the hassle of walking through crowded streets. It’s especially suitable if you’re visiting during the holiday season and want to add a touch of magic to your trip. Just be prepared for the possibility of route changes and limited time on board.

Whether you’re a holiday lover or just looking for a different way to see London’s lights, this experience offers a memorable snapshot of the city’s festive spirit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult. Under 5s are not allowed on the bus.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for about one hour, making it a quick yet festive addition to your day.

Can I choose the departure point?
Yes, you can start from either the London Eye or Aldwych, depending on your preference or schedule.

Are dietary options available?
Yes, the menu includes vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free choices. You should inform reservations at least 24 hours in advance for special dietary needs.

Is there any entertainment on board?
Yes, the bus plays Christmas music, including songs from The Snowman and classic carols, enhancing the festive mood.

Can I upgrade my drinks?
Absolutely. You can pre-purchase upgrades like Prosecco, mulled wine, or Snowball cocktails.

Are the sights visible during the day?
While the tour can run during the day, the evening provides the best views of Christmas lights and decorations.

Is the route flexible?
The route is subject to change due to traffic or road closures, but it’s designed to highlight key London landmarks and lights.

What about the price?
While some reviews mention feeling the cost is high for the short duration, many find the experience’s festive atmosphere and views worth it for a special holiday outing.

Hopefully, this detailed review helps you decide whether the Snowman Afternoon Tea Bus Tour is a good fit for your holiday plans. It’s a charming, festive way to enjoy London during Christmas—just be sure to set your expectations about route length and check for the latest updates before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here: