London: Children’s Open Top Bus Tour

Thinking about taking the family on a quick, engaging tour of London’s highlights? This Children’s Open Top Bus Tour by Tootbus offers a lively, brief glimpse into the city’s most famous landmarks, all tailored with kids in mind. Whether you’re introducing young travelers to London or just want a hassle-free way to see key sights, this tour might be worth considering.

What we really like about this experience is how kid-friendly the commentary is and the convenient route that hits all the top spots. Plus, the option to use the self-guided walking tours via the Tootbus app adds some flexibility for independent exploring afterward. However, a potential downside is that, with such a short duration (just 45 minutes), it might not be enough for those wanting a more in-depth experience or to see more distant attractions.

This tour is ideal for families with children between 6 and 12, or anyone looking for a quick, entertaining overview of London’s main sights. It’s also great if you prefer a guided experience that’s light on walking but rich in visuals and stories.

Key Points

• Duration & Comfort: The 45-minute open-top bus makes for an easy, manageable sightseeing experience.
• Engaging Guides: The live commentary is specifically designed to capture children’s imaginations and keep them engaged.
• Prime Route: Passes major London landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, and Downing Street.
• Additional Resources: Access to the Tootbus app provides self-guided walking tours and navigation help.
• Accessibility: The bus is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a variety of needs.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience — What to Expect

This tour is a straightforward, lively way to see London’s most iconic sights from the comfort of a double-decker bus. It begins at the 24 Royal Opera Arcade on Charles II Street, a convenient starting point that you’ll locate easily through the Tootbus app. The route takes you past landmarks like Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, Green Park, the London Eye, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Pall Mall, and Downing Street. The bus then loops back, giving everyone a chance to take in the views and snap photos.

Onboard, the highlight is the live commentary in English, specifically tailored for children. Many reviews mention how entertaining and clear the guide is, with stories that add context to the landmarks. For example, reviewers say the guide managed traffic jams with humor and kept the attention of young passengers, which is no small feat in a busy city.

The commentary is peppered with fun facts and stories, making the tour not just about sightseeing but also about learning in an engaging way. One traveler noted, “The guide was fantastic and kept everyone interested,” which is a good sign that your kids won’t tune out halfway through.

The Route & Stops — What You’ll See

Each stop on this tour has its own charm, and the route is designed to give broad exposure to London’s most recognizable sights.

• Trafalgar Square: The heart of London, with its fountains and statues, perfect for a quick photo stop. Many reviews highlight the ease of starting here.
• Piccadilly Circus: Known for its bright neon signs and lively atmosphere, this spot is a favorite for capturing lively city scenes.
• Green Park: A brief chance to see a peaceful green space in the bustling city, a good spot to stretch your legs or take a quick walk.
• The London Eye: One of the city’s most popular attractions; from the bus, you’ll get a glimpse of the giant ferris wheel that offers panoramic views.
• Big Ben & Houses of Parliament: Iconic symbols of London, even from the outside, and a highlight on the route.
• Westminster Abbey: While you won’t go inside, the exterior offers plenty of opportunity for photos and learning about British history.
• Pall Mall & Downing Street: These streets are full of historic significance, and you’ll see the Prime Minister’s residence from the outside.

The guide’s storytelling enhances each of these landmarks, making them come alive for kids and adults alike. The reviews emphasize how the stories and facts provided are appropriate for children, making the sightseeing both fun and educational.

The Benefits of This Tour

One of the standout features is the live, kid-friendly commentary. Many reviews praise the guide’s ability to blend humor, stories, and facts that appeal to children, keeping them entertained during what could otherwise be a monotonous city drive.

Another strength is the route itself. It hits the major sights without feeling overwhelming, perfect for families or travelers who want a quick overview without spending hours walking or waiting in lines. Also, the price point is quite reasonable given the convenience and the value of seeing a broad swath of London in just under an hour.

The access to the Tootbus app adds a bonus for those who want to explore further. You can locate attractions, plan self-guided walks, and prepare your itinerary, making this a flexible experience that extends beyond the bus ride.

The Downsides

While many praise this tour, some travelers mention traffic delays, which are unavoidable in central London. A few reviews note that traffic jams can extend the journey slightly, but the guides generally handle this well with humor and storytelling.

Another possible consideration is the short duration—just 45 minutes. If you’re hoping to explore more landmarks or prefer a more leisurely pace, this might feel rushed. It’s a quick snapshot rather than an in-depth tour, so those wanting a comprehensive experience should consider combining it with other activities.

Finally, some reviews mention initial difficulty in finding the bus stop—a good tip is to arrive early and use the Tootbus app to locate the precise departure point.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families with kids aged 6 to 12 who want a fun, manageable way to see London’s landmarks. It’s also ideal for first-time visitors who prefer a guided overview and want to avoid the hassle of navigating on their own.

If you’re traveling with young children or seniors, the wheelchair accessibility makes it more inclusive. But if you’re looking for a deep dive into London’s history or a long sightseeing day, this bus tour might be too brief.

Final Thoughts

The London Children’s Open Top Bus Tour offers a convenient, engaging, and family-friendly way to get a quick overview of the city’s most famous sights. The live commentary makes it lively and accessible for young minds, and the route covers all the major landmarks you’d want to see in a short trip.

It’s a good value for the price, especially considering the additional flexibility provided by the self-guided walking tours. If your goal is to introduce kids to London without overwhelming them or your schedule, this tour hits the mark. It’s not a substitute for a full-day exploration, but it’s a perfect first taste or a light sightseeing option.

For families, first-timers, or those eager for a low-key, well-organized city tour, this experience delivers enough excitement and insight without the fatigue. Just be prepared for some traffic delays and the short time span, so manage expectations accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the tour suitable for young children?
Yes, the tour is specially designed for children aged 6 to 12, with live commentary that is easy to understand and engaging.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick, manageable sightseeing experience.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll pass major sights including Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, Green Park, the London Eye, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Pall Mall, and Downing Street.

Can I use the app for additional exploring?
Yes, the free Tootbus app provides self-guided walking tours and helps locate attractions and the departure point.

Is the bus accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the bus is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I do if I can’t find the bus stop?
Download and use the Tootbus app to easily locate the exact departure point on Google Play or the Apple Store.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve your spot without paying immediately, offering flexibility in planning.

In the end, this tour is a practical and enjoyable way to tick off London’s top sights, especially if you’re traveling with kids or want a relaxed, guided overview. Just remember, it’s a quick snapshot—perfect for a first taste, but not a comprehensive exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: