Buckingham Palace Tour and Afternoon Tea

Introduction

If you’re planning a London visit and want to combine a glimpse of royal life with a chance to relax over tea, the Buckingham Palace Tour and Afternoon Tea package might catch your eye. Although we haven’t personally done this tour, it’s clearly designed for those who want a bit of everything—history, elegance, and a taste of local tradition—all wrapped into one four-hour experience.

One of the things we like about this experience is that it offers admission to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms, which are renowned for their stunning furnishings and royal treasures. Plus, the afternoon tea on a panoramic bus means you get to see London’s landmarks while nibbling on treats—something that many travelers appreciate.

A potential downside? Since the tour is unescorted once you’re inside Buckingham Palace, you’ll need to manage your own time afterward to get to the afternoon tea spot. It’s not a guided experience throughout, so some travelers might prefer a more structured schedule or guided commentary. But overall, this experience suits those who want a blend of culture, history, and leisure, especially if you’re okay with a bit of independent movement.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a classy day out, this tour is likely best for visitors who enjoy a mix of sightseeing with a touch of luxury and don’t mind logistics between stops.

Key Points

• Visit Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms with an included audio guide, exploring some of the most exquisite furnishings and treasures.
• Enjoy a scenic London bus tour with panoramic views of landmarks like Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the London Eye.
• Relax over a traditional afternoon tea, complete with finger sandwiches, scones, and a choice of tea or Prosecco.
• Self-guided transition between the palace visit and afternoon tea, with some planning needed.
• Small group size (up to 30 travelers) makes for a more intimate experience.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Buckingham Palace Visit: The Heart of Royal London

Starting at Buckingham Palace, this part of the tour is where the magic begins. As the official residence of His Majesty the King, it’s a place that symbolizes the monarchy’s presence in London. The fully working royal palace isn’t just a static monument; it’s still an active hub for royal administration and ceremonies.

What makes this visit stand out is the chance to explore 19 State Rooms, which are often off-limits to the public, except during specific times of the year. These rooms are beautifully furnished with French and English antiques, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into royal life. The collection includes artwork by Rubens, Canaletto, and Rembrandt, alongside sculptures by Canova and porcelain by Sèvres—truly a treasure trove for art lovers.

The garden, often called a “walled oasis,” is a highlight for many. From the outside, it’s a lush retreat amid the city’s hustle and bustle, a perfect spot for photos or just a moment of quiet reflection. This part of the tour generally takes about 2 hours, giving enough time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.

One reviewer praised the experience, saying, “We did the tour and bus with afternoon tea for a friend’s 50th birthday and it was really nice. Abisola and Aneesh were fantastic and really looked after us. Really enjoyed it.” This indicates that the staff’s hospitality makes a difference, especially during special occasions.

The London Panorama Bus Tour & Afternoon Tea

After exploring Buckingham Palace, you’ll head to Bulleid Way in Victoria for your afternoon tea on the English Bus Tea Bus. The setting is both charming and relaxed, with a glass of Prosecco or soft drink to start your experience.

The bus route showcases London’s iconic sights, including Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the London Eye. The panoramic windows make it easy to take in the scenery without leaving your seat—a great way to see a lot without the hassle of navigating busy streets. The one-hour tour provides a leisurely backdrop for your meal, allowing you to absorb the city’s sights while enjoying some classic British treats.

The afternoon tea itself is a traditional affair: finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and preserves, small tea cakes, and a selection of teas. Some travelers might find the menu simple but satisfying. Keep in mind that the menu may vary slightly, and dietary restrictions like vegan or gluten-free options need to be requested 72 hours prior, which makes planning easier for those with specific needs.

A review from a past guest highlights the friendly service they received: “Abisola and Aneesh were fantastic and really looked after us.” This suggests that staff care and attentiveness can elevate the experience, especially during celebratory events like birthdays.

Practical Details and Logistics

Your start time is 10:45 am, and the entire experience lasts roughly four hours. Because it’s unescorted after the palace visit, you’ll need to make your way independently from Buckingham Palace to the afternoon tea point. The tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, so planning your route in advance is a good idea—nearby public transportation makes this manageable.

The tour is ideal for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as exploring the palace involves some walking, and the bus tour is mostly seated. Children under 5 aren’t allowed, but beyond that, most adults will find the pace comfortable.

Pricing at $117.54 per person reflects the combined value of gaining access to the palace’s exclusive spaces, enjoying a scenic tour, and partaking in a classic British tradition. Considering entry to Buckingham Palace alone can be pricey, this package offers a more comprehensive experience at a reasonable price point.

Authenticity and Value

One aspect that stands out is the knowledgeable guides and staff who looked after the reviewer’s group. Although the tour is unescorted, the staff on-site seem to provide a warm, attentive service, which can make a significant difference. With a customer rating of 5 out of 5 from one review, it’s clear many find this experience enjoyable and well-managed.

The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours also adds reassurance, especially in uncertain travel times. It allows you to book without too much worry, knowing you can adjust plans if needed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for visitors who want a balanced mix of history, sightseeing, and leisure. It’s suitable for those who enjoy cultural immersions but don’t want a hectic, guided group tour with rigid schedules. It’s also well-suited for celebrating special occasions, given the personal touches and refined setting.

If you prefer a highly guided, structured experience or are traveling with very young children, you might want to look for other options. However, if your goal is to combine a glimpse of royalty with a relaxing meal and sightseeing, this tour offers a compelling package.

The Sum Up

The Buckingham Palace Tour and Afternoon Tea provides a well-rounded way to experience some of London’s most iconic sights and traditions. The chance to see the State Rooms of the monarchy, combined with a scenic bus ride and a proper afternoon tea, makes it a nice pick for those who want a little of everything without the fuss of booking multiple tickets or tours.

The experience’s strength lies in its authentic access to the palace, the friendly staff, and the relaxed pace that allows you to enjoy London’s landmarks comfortably. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of history, art, and leisurely indulgence, and who don’t mind handling their own logistics between stops.

While it might lack a guided commentary during the palace visit, the overall vibe is warm and personal, with many guests praising the staff’s attentiveness. The price seems fair given what’s included, and the option for free cancellation adds a nice layer of flexibility.

If you’re celebrating something special or simply want a polished, enjoyable way to spend a day in London, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s not the most adventurous or action-packed option, but it delivers a classic experience that balances history, scenery, and a taste of British tradition.

FAQ

Is there a guided tour inside Buckingham Palace?
No, the palace visit is unescorted, but it includes an audio guide to help you learn about the State Rooms and royal treasures.

How long does the Buckingham Palace visit last?
It typically takes about 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the State Rooms and gardens.

Can I join the afternoon tea if I arrive late?
You need to be at Bulleid Way by the designated time, around 3 pm, to enjoy the tea on the bus.

Is the afternoon tea suitable for dietary restrictions?
Vegan and gluten-free options can be requested at least 72 hours in advance. The menu may vary, and some dishes might contain nuts.

Is transportation included between the palace and the tea bus?
No, you’ll need to make your way independently from Buckingham Palace to the tea bus location.

How many people are in the tour group?
The maximum group size is 30 travelers, making for a fairly intimate experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes for walking, plus an umbrella or raincoat just in case, since London weather can be unpredictable.

Can children join this tour?
Children under 5 are not allowed. For older kids, the experience might be enjoyable if they’re interested in history and sightseeing.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund, thanks to the free cancellation policy.

If you’re after a relaxed, culturally rich day in London with a touch of royal elegance, this tour offers a solid option. Just a heads-up to plan your timing well, and you’ll likely come away with some lovely memories.