Ghost Bus Tour of London

If you’re considering adding a touch of the eerie to your London trip, the Ghost Bus Tour might catch your eye. This themed adventure promises a mix of ghost stories, historic landmarks, and a vintage 1960s Routemaster bus with a Gothic makeover. While it isn’t a full-on haunted house experience, it offers a fun and atmospheric way to explore some of London’s darker past—especially if you enjoy storytelling, a bit of theatrical flair, and seeing the city illuminated at night.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are how knowledgeable the guides tend to be and the unique charm of riding on an old-fashioned bus through the city’s historic streets. The storytelling often comes with lively theatrics and some amusing jokes, making the experience lively and engaging. However, one thing to keep in mind is that it’s more of an entertainment-focused journey than a traditional ghost-hunting tour. Some reviews mention that it feels more like a comedy show with a spooky theme rather than a pure ghost story session. If you’re after something more serious or spine-chilling, this might not be the right fit.

This tour is best suited for folks who enjoy a light-hearted, fun approach to history with a spooky twist. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an evening activity that combines sightseeing with storytelling, and if you don’t mind the occasional joke or theatrical flourish. It’s also a good option for those who appreciate a vintage vibe—riding on a Routemaster bus adds an extra layer of charm and nostalgia.

Key Points

• Engaging guides who bring stories to life with humor and theatrics
• Passes iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral, with a spooky edge
• Suitable for a broad audience — from history buffs to those just looking for a fun night out
• A vintage Routemaster bus adds a nostalgic atmosphere, making the ride memorable
• The tour’s length (about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes) is manageable and makes for a compact evening activity
• Mixed reviews on ghost content — some find it fun and spooky, others say it’s more comedy than horror

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Ghost Bus Tour isn’t just about the ghosts. It’s a lively storytelling journey through some of London’s most famous sites, tinged with tales of murder, execution, and hauntings that have earned their dark reputation. It starts near Trafalgar Square, a prime spot to gather before heading off in your vintage Routemaster. This bus, with its dark Gothic style, sets the perfect mood, whether you’re on the lower or upper deck. You’ll get a good view of the city’s illuminated landmarks while your guide spins spine-tingling tales.

The Landmarks and Stops

While the main focus is the stories, the tour passes by some of London’s most recognizable sights. Expect to see the Tower of London, where many historical figures met grim ends, and Westminster Abbey, home to royal tombs and dark legends. You’ll also cruise past Tower Bridge, a Victorian marvel often linked with ghost stories, and the Houses of Parliament, with its own share of ghostly lore.

Your guide will share lesser-known facts about these sites, making the experience educational as well as entertaining. For instance, the story of the Whitehall Mystery—an unsolved 19th-century murder case—adds a layer of intrigue, even for those not typically into ghost stories.

The Atmosphere and Guides

Many reviews commend the guides for their energy and storytelling skills. One reviewer called Stan “amazing,” praising his charisma and enthusiasm. Others note that the guides often sprinkle jokes into their tales, which can make the experience more fun and less scary. For example, some mention how the host would joke with passengers or add theatrical effects, which keeps the mood lively.

A few reviews, however, mention that the tour can sometimes feel more like a comedy sketch than a spooky story. If you’re expecting a serious ghost investigation, you might find it a bit campy or overly theatrical. That said, the general consensus is that it’s good fun—especially if you’re up for some laughs along with the ghostly tales.

The Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts roughly 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, a decent length that won’t wear out your welcome. The group size caps at 54 travelers, so it’s a relatively intimate experience, and you’ll likely get to hear the guide’s stories without too much competition. Arriving early is advised, as the tour doesn’t wait for latecomers, and you’ll want to settle in comfortably before departure.

Price and Value

At around $38.40 per person, this tour is reasonably priced considering it includes transport on a vintage bus and a lively guide. Some reviews feel that it’s worth the money for the fun atmosphere and the chance to see some of London’s famous sights from a different perspective. Others, however, suggest that it’s more entertaining than educational, so if ghost stories are your main goal, manage expectations.

The Downsides

The most notable drawback, based on some reviews, is that the experience can be disrupted by traffic, which might cause delays or even cancellations. One reviewer shared frustration over their tour being canceled due to traffic, with no refund received when they were no longer in London. Plus, some feel that the ghost stories are not as chilling or detailed as they’d hoped; instead, the emphasis is on humor and theatrical flair.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is well-suited for those who enjoy a mix of history, storytelling, and a playful atmosphere. It’s perfect if you want a fun, engaging evening activity that doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s also good for travelers who appreciate vintage charm and don’t mind a bit of theatrical exaggeration. If you’re traveling with a group of friends or even adults seeking a lighthearted night out, this could be a hit.

It’s less ideal if you’re after an intense horror experience or detailed historical insights. Also, be aware that traffic issues could potentially impact your experience, so flexibility helps.

The Bottom Line

The Ghost Bus Tour of London offers a lively and atmospheric way to explore the city’s haunted reputation. Its combination of iconic landmarks, theatrical storytelling, and vintage charm provides a memorable experience—especially if you go in expecting fun, jokes, and a bit of spooky atmosphere rather than pure horror. Guides tend to be energetic and engaging, making it an enjoyable activity for those who appreciate theatrics and stories with a dark twist.

While some might find the ghost stories a little campy or the experience disrupted by traffic delays, many travelers leave with a smile and some memorable tales. It’s a good pick if you’re looking for an evening that mixes sightseeing with entertainment, and if you’re comfortable with a tour that leans more toward the playful side of ghost stories.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is mainly geared toward adults and older teens who enjoy theatrical storytelling and spooky tales. Children may find the atmosphere fun, but some content and jokes are more appropriate for adults.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, making it a compact and manageable activity for an evening.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is 8 Northumberland Ave, near Trafalgar Square. The tour ends back at the same location, so there’s no need for additional transportation.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided tour and transportation on a vintage Routemaster bus. Food, drinks, and hotel transfers are not included.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the entire experience is in English, so some familiarity with the language is helpful for understanding the stories and jokes.

If you’re after a fun way to see London’s haunted side with a dash of theatrics and vintage charm, the Ghost Bus Tour might just be your ticket. It’s lively, entertaining, and a little spooky—perfect for a relaxed evening soaking in the city’s darker stories.