Best of London by LE GRAND – London’s Luxury Bus Tour

Introduction

If you’re looking to see the highlights of London without spending hours on end, the Best of London by LE GRAND offers a smooth, elegant way to soak in some of the city’s most famous sights. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, reviews and details paint a picture of a comfortable, stylish ride that combines sightseeing with a touch of indulgence.

What really caught our eye is how this tour balances classic London landmarks with the opportunity to enjoy a gourmet meal or afternoon tea on a luxury double-decker bus. Imagine relaxing in plush armchairs while the city passes by—sounds pretty special, right? Plus, the fact that it’s a shorter, 1.5-hour experience makes it appealing for those tight on time but eager to tick off their London bucket list.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that gourmet bites and drinks are not included in the price, so you’ll want to budget for that extra. Also, since children under five aren’t allowed, families should plan accordingly. This tour seems best suited for foodies, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a comfortable, upscale overview of London without the hustle of a full-day sightseeing spree.

Key Points

• Luxurious Comfort: The bus features elegant, comfy layouts with plush seats and a refined atmosphere.
• Iconic Sights: You’ll see landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Hyde Park, and more from a unique vantage point.
• Food & Drink: Enjoy a sophisticated meal or afternoon tea onboard—note that these are not included in the ticket price.
• Short & Sweet: The entire experience lasts about an hour and a half, perfect for fitting into a busy schedule.
• Small Group Feel: The tour caps at 32 travelers, offering a more intimate experience.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

What Makes LE GRAND’s Luxury Bus Tour Stand Out?

This isn’t your typical hop-on-hop-off. Instead, think of it as a combination of sightseeing and fine dining on wheels. The luxury double-decker bus is designed with comfort and style in mind—think armchairs and sofas rather than basic seats. This setting instantly elevates the experience, making it feel like a very special way to see London.

One of the standout features, as highlighted by a 5-star review, is the elegant and comfy layout. As SanjayN mentioned, “The Le Grand bus has an elegant and comfy layout! A great new product that is unique and special! Service on board was excellent.” That sense of relaxation adds a lot to what might otherwise be a crowded, rushed experience.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and How You Experience It

The tour kicks off at Green Park Underground toilets at 2:00 pm, making it easily accessible via public transit. The route covers many of London’s most recognizable landmarks, and each point is a photo-worthy moment.

• Piccadilly Circus and Soho: You’ll glide past the energetic heart of the West End, perfect for those who love city buzz.
• Wellington Arch and Hyde Park: Expect sweeping views of green spaces and iconic monuments, great for some quick photo ops.
• Royal Albert Hall, Albert Memorial, Natural History Museum, and Victoria & Albert Museum: These cultural landmarks give you a taste of London’s grandeur and artistic heritage.
• Harrods and Apsley House: For a glimpse of London’s luxury shopping and historic homes.
• Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey: Two of the most famous royal and religious sites, offering a regal feel.
• Westminster Palace, Big Ben, and Parliament Square: The quintessential London sights, perfect for first-timers wanting that classic skyline.
• Whitehall, Downing Street, and Trafalgar Square: Political and historic hubs that tell stories of the city’s governance.
• Chinatown, Nelson’s Column, and Royal Academy of Arts: Diverse neighborhoods and artistic landmarks rounding out the experience.

The Meal: A Slice of Britain with a View

Here’s where the tour truly stands out. You get to enjoy a delicious meal or afternoon tea while sitting comfortably on the bus, watching London go by. It’s a relaxed way to combine gastronomy with sightseeing, making it ideal for food lovers. However, it’s worth noting that gourmet bites and beverages are not included in the ticket price, so you’ll want to plan for that extra expense.

While we can’t speak to the specific menu offerings, the idea of nibbling on British favorites or sampling local bites in such a refined setting is appealing. Plus, the positive review from SanjayN praises the service on board, hinting that the food and drinks are likely well-curated and enjoyable.

Group Size and Duration

With a maximum of 32 travelers, the experience feels intimate enough to ask questions or get some personalized attention. The 1 hour 30-minute length makes it manageable for those who might find longer tours overwhelming or who want a quick but immersive snapshot of London.

Price & Value

At $65.64 per person, this tour is priced on the premium side but reflects the luxury experience and included amenities. It’s not just a sightseeing bus—it’s a luxurious journey with food, which adds to its value. Given that it’s booked on average 36 days in advance, it’s clear that many travelers see this as a worthwhile splurge, especially for special occasions or those wanting to indulge without the hassle of multiple bookings.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is particularly suited for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview with some comfort, foodies eager to enjoy British cuisine in a refined setting, and those looking for a relaxing, stylish way to see London. It’s less ideal for travelers with very young children (under 5) or those wanting a more active, in-depth exploration.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Best of London by LE GRAND offers a luxurious, curated glimpse of London’s most iconic sights in a relaxed and comfortable environment. The combination of elegant transport and the chance to enjoy a meal or tea onboard makes it stand out from typical bus tours. The small group size ensures a more personable experience, and the flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind.

The main appeal is the comfort and style, making it perfect for travelers who prefer a more refined way to explore rather than fighting crowds or rushing through sights. However, keep in mind that extra costs for food and drinks are on you, and the experience might not be as engaging for those seeking a more active tour.

If you’re craving a gentle, upscale overview of London with the bonus of good eats, this tour might just be your perfect match. For seasoned travelers or those seeking a comprehensive, in-depth adventure, it’s worth considering alongside more immersive options. Either way, it’s a distinctive way to tick off the city’s big landmarks in style.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 are not allowed on this tour, so it’s best suited for older kids, teenagers, and adults.

What’s included in the tour?
You get service on board the luxurious bus, but gourmet bites and beverages are not included in the ticket price.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Green Park Underground toilets, 21 Arlington St and ends back at the same location.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit, making it easy to reach.

What’s the price for this experience?
It costs about $65.64 per person, a price that reflects the luxury setting and included amenities.

Are the sights visited included in the cost?
Yes, you’ll see a wide range of landmarks from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace, all part of the guided route.

If you’re after a comfortable, stylish way to experience London’s highlights and enjoy some good eats along the way, LE GRAND’s luxury bus tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a solid choice for those who prefer a more relaxed, elegant sightseeing method over traditional walking tours or crowded buses.