London Afternoon Tea Bus and Panoramic Tour on Lower Deck

If you’re considering adding a touch of British elegance to your London adventure, this Afternoon Tea Bus Tour might catch your eye. It promises a blend of sightseeing and high tea aboard a classic double-decker bus — a fun way to see the city while indulging in traditional treats. While some reviews mention room for improvement, many travelers find it a charming, relaxing way to enjoy London’s landmarks without the hustle of crowded streets.

What we like about this experience is how it combines stunning views of London’s most famous sights with the comfort of a seated meal — all from the cozy lower deck of a bus. The included finger sandwiches, scones, and cakes paired with a glass of Prosecco or soft drink add a delightful touch of luxury. It’s a great way to unwind after a busy morning or as a leisurely way to start an afternoon of exploring the city.

However, a few potential drawbacks are worth noting. Some guests have found the service inconsistent, and the lack of guided commentary means you’re left to enjoy the sights on your own, which might not suit everyone. Also, if you’re expecting a guided tour with detailed stories of landmarks, this might not fully meet those expectations.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy relaxed sightseeing combined with a leisurely meal. If you’re after an enjoyable, informal way to see London’s landmarks and indulge in traditional tea, it’s a solid choice. Keep in mind that it’s best for those comfortable with shared seating and open to a laid-back vibe rather than an in-depth guided tour.

Key Points

• Unique combination of sightseeing and British high tea on a double-decker bus.
• Great views of landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Coca-Cola London Eye.
• Good value for the price, especially since food, drinks, and a panoramic tour are included.
• Limited narration—be prepared for a self-guided experience with music rather than commentary.
• Comfortable lower deck seating with a view, but some reviews mention shared tables and less privacy.
• Potential for busy or disorganized service—reading reviews can help set expectations.

An Honest Look at the Tour Itself

The tour kicks off at the Golden Tours Bulleid Way Departure Point, a central spot near Victoria Station. From there, you hop aboard a luxurious double-decker bus that will take you through London’s bustling streets for approximately 90 minutes. The journey is designed to showcase some of the city’s most iconic sights, all while you enjoy a delicious afternoon tea.

What to Expect on the Route

As you settle in on the lower deck, you’ll be surrounded by panoramic windows offering great views of London’s skyline. The stops include landmarks like Piccadilly Circus, with its vibrant lights and energy, as well as Charing Cross and the Trafalgar Square, each steeped in history and London charm. Your route also passes by the Coca-Cola London Eye, giving you a perfect vantage point to appreciate its impressive height and design, and Westminster Abbey, a site of royal ceremonies and centuries of history.

Food and Drinks

The afternoon tea is a highlight for many. You’ll be served homemade finger sandwiches, with options ranging from hummus and falafel to smoked salmon and cream cheese. Then, there’s the assortment of mini pastries and desserts along with the quintessentially British scones topped with clotted cream and jam. Many reviews mention that the food is delicious and well-presented, making it a satisfying break amid sightseeing.

The drinks choice includes a glass of Prosecco or a soft drink. Some reviews note that if you’re planning to indulge further, don’t forget to request additional drinks beforehand, as this isn’t automatically included. Also, keep in mind that alcohol will only be served to those over 18, so bring valid ID if you plan to toast with Prosecco.

Service and Comfort

The experience’s quality heavily depends on the staff. Several reviews praise the friendly and welcoming staff who made guests feel comfortable and relaxed. Others mention that service can vary, with some guests noting inconsistent attentiveness or disorganized seating. Seating is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with most sharing tables, which might affect your privacy or comfort if you’re traveling with a group.

It’s worth noting that there are no restrooms onboard, which can be inconvenient if you’re traveling with kids or planning a longer day. Plus, the bus itself is described as older and sometimes not very clean, with some guests mentioning dirty windows and a musty smell. These are minor issues, but they can influence the overall vibe.

The Experience in Practice

Reviews paint a pretty mixed picture. While many find it a lovely, relaxing way to see the city, others have been disappointed by lack of narration—some expected a guided experience and found the background music overwhelming or the commentary absent. One review even called it “incredibly disorganized,” citing the chaotic seating and old food presentation.

Conversely, several guests, like Julia and Natascha, have raved about the delicious food and friendly staff, describing it as a “quite lovely” experience overall. Many highlighted the great value considering the included food, drinks, and sightseeing.

Pricing and Value

At just over $67 per person, the tour offers a decent value for a leisurely afternoon of sightseeing and afternoon tea. It’s not a guided tour in the traditional sense, but for many, the combination of city views and British treats justifies the cost. If you’re an enthusiast of afternoon tea and enjoy sightseeing from a comfortable spot, it can be a worthwhile treat. However, if you’re seeking a fully narrated, guided experience or expect high-end service, this might not fully deliver.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travellers who enjoy casual, unstructured sightseeing paired with a relaxed meal. It’s ideal for those who want to combine a unique dining experience with views of London’s most famous sights without the formality of guided commentary. It’s also suitable if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates a good meal in a laid-back setting.

If you’re a history buff or someone looking for detailed landmark explanations, you might find the lack of narration a letdown. For families with older children who like sightseeing and treats, it can be a delightful break, but keep in mind that children under 5 are not permitted.

FAQs

Is there a guide narrating the tour? No, this tour does not include a live guide or commentary, so you’ll enjoy the sights with music and your own observations.

Are drinks included? Yes, a glass of Prosecco or a soft drink is included with the meal. You can request additional drinks when booking or during the tour.

Is the food good? Most reviews say yes—the sandwiches and scones are tasty and well-presented. However, some mention the food can sometimes be bland or in contact with nuts, so if you have allergies, be cautious.

Are there restrooms onboard? No, there are no toilets on the bus, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for children? Children under 5 are not allowed, and those 15 and under must be with a paying adult.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 90 minutes, but reviews suggest it can go longer depending on traffic and route changes.

Can I choose specific seats? Seating is first-come, first-served, and specific seats aren’t guaranteed, especially on the lower deck.

What landmarks will I see? The route covers Piccadilly Circus, Charing Cross, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye, among others.

How do I cancel or reschedule? You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

The Bottom Line

This London Afternoon Tea Bus and Panoramic Tour offers a charming way to combine sightseeing with a traditional British high tea experience. The views from the lower deck are enjoyable, and the food is generally well-liked. It’s a relaxed, informal outing that’s perfect for travelers wanting a break from the busy streets and a taste of London’s culinary side.

While it’s not the best choice if you’re seeking in-depth commentary or a high-end guided experience, it delivers on atmosphere and comfort. For those happy to go with the flow, share tables, and enjoy views of the capital’s most famous landmarks, this tour provides good value and a memorable experience.

In summary, this tour is best for casual sightseers, tea lovers, and anyone wanting a different perspective on London’s sights without the rush or formality of a traditional guided tour. It’s a fun and relaxed way to spend an afternoon, especially if you go in with realistic expectations about the level of narration and service. Just remember, if you’re after a guided, storytelling experience, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you’re in the mood for a bit of British charm paired with spectacular views, it’s worth considering.