Irish Afternoon Tea on 1960s Vintage Bus in Dublin

If you’re planning to visit Dublin and want a blend of sightseeing, good food, and a touch of nostalgia, this Irish Afternoon Tea on a vintage 1960s bus might catch your eye. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the reviews and details suggest it’s a charming and unique way to explore Dublin without the usual hustle and bustle of walking tours or bus-only sightseeing.

What immediately gives this experience appeal is the chance to enjoy afternoon tea, with its tempting selection of sandwiches, cakes, and pastries, all while cruising through Dublin’s iconic streets. Plus, riding on a fully restored Routemaster double-decker bus from the 1960s adds a nostalgic and fun element. The guides, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, seem to elevate the experience, making it not just a feast for the palate but also for the storytelling.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the duration: at just an hour and a half, it’s a relatively short trip, so if you’re after an in-depth historical tour, this may not hit all your marks. But if you’re after a relaxed, tasty, and scenic overview of Dublin, this experience could be just right. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a bit of novelty and don’t mind the price point of around $98.

This tour seems best suited for visitors wanting a leisurely, sociable way to see Dublin’s most famous sights while enjoying a good meal onboard. It’s not a hardcore history tour, but rather a cozy, memorable outing with friendly hosts and delicious eats—perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Key Points

• Unique setting: Travel on a restored 1960s Routemaster bus, adding a nostalgic vibe.
• Scenic views: See Dublin’s top sights like Christ Church, Trinity College, and Phoenix Park from the bus.
• Tasty treats: Enjoy freshly made sandwiches, cakes, and pastries, with many reviewers praising the food quality.
• Informative guides: Hosts are noted for being friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging.
• Relaxed pace: The tour is semi-guided, offering a good balance between storytelling and free time.
• Value for money: Many reviews highlight the experience as a worthwhile treat, especially considering the views and food.

The Experience Breakdown

The Vintage Bus Itself

Riding on a fully restored 1960s Routemaster, named Pauline, is part of the charm. If you’re into vintage vehicles or nostalgic vibes, you’ll likely enjoy this aspect. The bus is cozy enough to foster a convivial atmosphere but spacious enough to not feel cramped.

Traveling through Dublin on this bus, you’ll pass some of the city’s most famous sights, including Stephens Green, Christ Church, Trinity College, and Phoenix Park. The windows are large, offering unobstructed views, which is ideal since you’ll want to take it all in without having to leave your seat.

The Food and Menu

The highlight for many is definitely the afternoon tea spread, which includes classic items like coronation chicken sandwiches, plowman’s pickle brioche buns, red velvet cake, and raspberry and vanilla choux pastries. The food is prepared fresh, and most reviewers agree it’s delicious and well-presented.

One reviewer enthusiastically said, “The food was excellent,” emphasizing the quality and variety of the treats. You’ll want to arrive with an appetite because this isn’t just a quick snack—it’s a full, satisfying selection.

The Sightseeing and Commentary

The tour features a semi-guided format, so you’ll get some background stories about Dublin’s history and landmarks from your host, but there’s also plenty of time to relax, chat, and enjoy the scenery. This makes it a comfortable experience, particularly if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who enjoys a laid-back vibe.

Passage highlights include notable sights like O’Connell Street, Wood Quay, and the grand Georgian buildings. The views are appreciated by guests who say they loved watching Dublin go by while sipping tea.

The Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts about 90 minutes, making it suitable for those who want a taste of Dublin without committing to a longer, more intense tour. The group is small—max 36 travelers—which helps maintain an intimate atmosphere, and reviewers mention that the guides and staff are very friendly and knowledgeable.

The Cost and Value

At around $98.30 per person, this isn’t the cheapest Dublin activity, but considering the combination of sightseeing, food, and a vintage transport experience, many find it offers good value. Several reviews highlight that they thought it was worth the price, especially for the novelty and the quality of the food.

However, it’s worth noting that this experience is more about relaxation and indulgence than in-depth exploration. If you’re after fast-paced sightseeing or a comprehensive history lesson, this might not meet all your expectations. But if you want a charming, leisurely afternoon with good company and tasty treats, it delivers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love vintage vehicles, scenic city views, and afternoon tea, this tour is a delightful choice. It appeals to travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, friendly guides, and a bit of fun nostalgia. It’s also suitable for those looking for a light, social experience—perfect for a couple, friends, or even a small family with older children.

This isn’t the ideal tour if you’re seeking a detailed historical deep dive or if you have dietary restrictions that require special accommodations (though you should communicate any allergies or special diets in advance). It’s more about experiencing Dublin in a cozy, enjoyable way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with food allergies or special diets?
Yes, guests need to communicate any food restrictions beforehand, so the organizers can accommodate your needs. It’s best to inform them when booking.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. The full refund policy makes it flexible if your plans change.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, which makes it a manageable, relaxed outing rather than an all-day commitment.

What sights will I see?
You’ll pass through downtown Dublin, viewing sights like Stephens Green, Christ Church, Trinity College, and the grand Georgian buildings. The guide will share stories along the way.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as a family activity, the relaxed nature and short duration make it suitable for most older children who can sit comfortably for the length of the tour.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Just bring your appetite and a sense of curiosity. It’s a mobile ticket, so have your confirmation ready for easy check-in.

What is the group size?
Up to 36 travelers, which balances intimacy with enough fellow travelers to add some lively energy.

Where do we meet?
Start at Stephen Court, St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2. Exact details are included on your confirmation voucher.

Is there any transportation involved other than the bus?
No, the main transportation is the vintage bus itself, which is part of the experience.

What’s the price point reflecting?
It covers the scenic ride, the specially prepared afternoon tea, and the friendly guides. Many guests feel they receive good value, especially given the memorable, unique atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This Irish Afternoon Tea on a vintage bus offers a charming way to unwind in Dublin, combining sightseeing with delicious food and a dose of nostalgia. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy relaxed, social experiences and are looking for something different from the usual city tour. While it’s not the place for in-depth history buffs or those with strict dietary restrictions, it’s a cozy, memorable afternoon that many reviewers say is worth the price.

If you’re keen on a leisurely exploration paired with tasty treats and a bit of vintage fun, this tour could become one of your favorite Dublin moments. Just remember to arrive hungry and ready for a good chat—this is a laid-back, friendly experience that makes exploring Dublin feel like a special occasion with friends.