London: Great British Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining a sightseeing tour with a proper British tradition, the London: Great British Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers just that. It’s a unique way to see some of London’s most iconic landmarks while indulging in a proper afternoon tea—serving up a mix of sightseeing, comfort, and a touch of classic charm.

This experience is particularly appealing if you love the idea of relaxing with good food while cruising through the city’s most photogenic streets. Our favorite things? The vintage 1960s Routemaster bus adds a nostalgic vibe that makes the whole trip feel special. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy premium teas and coffee alongside tasty sandwiches and sweet treats is a real highlight.

On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the experience can get a bit warm inside, especially during the warmer months, and the itinerary can be a little hectic if you’re trying to eat and see everything at once. Still, for those who appreciate a cozy, well-curated city tour with a focus on flavor and scenery, this tour hits many right notes.

Best suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a leisurely culinary break, this tour offers a memorable way to explore London from the comfort of a charming vintage bus. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to do something different, this experience is worth considering.

Key Points

• Charming Vintage Vibe: The bus is a beautifully restored 1960s Routemaster, adding a nostalgic touch.
• All-in-One Experience: Combines sightseeing, afternoon tea, and city commentary in one tour.
• Good Value: Plenty of food, drinks, and an extensive route for the ticket price.
• Expert Guides: Staff are friendly, attentive, and share interesting facts about London.
• Scenic Views & Photo Opportunities: Pass by top landmarks with great photo angles from the bus windows.
• Potential Drawbacks: Can get warm inside, and the schedule might feel a bit rushed for eating and sightseeing simultaneously.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

A Cozy Ride Through London’s Heart

You start the journey at Embankment (Stop 40b), right by Embankment Underground Station. From there, you’ll hop onto a vintage Routemaster bus, a vehicle that’s as much a London icon as Big Ben. The bus has been carefully converted to provide a cozy, decorated interior that feels like a step back in time, but with modern comforts.

The drive is roughly 1.5 hours, during which you’ll pass many of London’s most recognizable sights. As the bus moves along, your hosts provide a steady stream of commentary—interesting facts, historical anecdotes, and fun tidbits that make the landmarks even more meaningful. For example, some reviews mentioned the guide’s engaging storytelling and attentiveness, like Katie, who was noted for checking on guests regularly and sharing fun facts like “why was the milk poured second?” This makes the experience more personal and engaging.

Sightseeing Landmarks on Your Route

The tour takes you past some of London’s most famous sites, including:
– Royal Courts of Justice: A striking building steeped in legal history.
– St Paul’s Cathedral: With its iconic dome, it’s a highlight from the bus.
– Monument & Tower of London: Historic sites that tell stories of London’s past.
– Tower Bridge & London Eye: Modern landmarks with great photo opportunities.
– Big Ben & Parliament: The very heart of Westminster, seen from the bus.
– Westminster Abbey & 10 Downing Street: Political and religious landmarks.
– Trafalgar Square & Piccadilly Circus: Buzzing hubs of activity and entertainment.

The route is designed to give you a comprehensive glimpse of London’s most essential sights without the need to walk long distances. Plus, the seats offer good views, and you get to relax while the city whizzes by.

The Afternoon Tea – Savoring in Style

While you cruise, the real star of the experience is the afternoon tea spread. Expect a selection of savory and sweet snacks, including finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and various pastries. Many reviews mention the quality of the food, with some describing it as plentiful and delicious. One guest even noted that the pastries, especially the croissant and lemon cake, were highlights.

Your drinks options are quite extensive: tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and soft drinks are all available and served with attentive care. The staff are praised for their constant refilling, making sure no one goes thirsty. Several reviews mentioned how the staff kept drinks topped up without fuss, adding a touch of luxury to the experience.

The setup allows you to enjoy your treats comfortably, though some guests pointed out that the bus can get quite warm, especially on hot days, and that the fans might not be enough to cool the space. If you’re sensitive to heat, consider visiting during cooler months or bringing a small fan.

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The Food & Service

Reviewers consistently rave about the quality of the food and attentive service. One reviewer noted that they were full by the end of the treats, emphasizing how much was served. Another praised the friendly staff for their helpfulness and the neat presentation.

Some reviews mentioned the quantity of food—many found it more than enough, with leftovers to take home. Several guests appreciated the variety, and a few suggested that more sandwiches could enhance the experience, but overall, the offerings were seen as generous and tasty.

Value for Money

Considering the full experience—city sightseeing, guided commentary, multiple food and drink options, and the vintage setting—it’s easy to see this as good value. Many reviews highlight how the price compares favorably to high tea in a restaurant, especially given the scenic backdrop of London passing by outside.

The Itinerary & Timing

The entire tour lasts around 1.5 hours, with the route covering about an hour on the bus and the remaining time for the tea and sightseeing. The stops are well spaced out, providing enough time for enjoyment without feeling rushed. However, some guests found it a little hectic trying to eat, drink, and see everything at once, especially during busy times.

The route is subject to change, especially around special events or celebrations—one reviewer noted a route change due to VE Day celebrations, which affected some stops. But overall, the core sights are reliably included.

Accessibility & Practicalities

The meeting point at Embankment is very accessible, close to the tube station and public facilities. The bus is old-style but has been renovated for comfort. Keep in mind that the interior can get warm, and the bumpy London roads might cause some movement during the ride. Still, the friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make up for those minor inconveniences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for anyone wanting a relaxed, fun way to see London’s landmarks without the hassle of walking or crowded buses. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a classic British vibe—who love history, good food, and a bit of nostalgia.

Families with older children might enjoy the scenic ride and treats, but younger kids may find the pace a bit slow or the seating tight. Couples, friends, or groups celebrating special occasions will likely find this a charming, memorable outing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
While the standard menu includes savory and sweet options, some reviews suggest that future plans include vegetarian options. It’s best to check directly with the provider, but most guests seem satisfied with the current offerings.

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts about 1.5 hours, with roughly an hour of sightseeing and the remaining time for enjoying the tea and snacks.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Embankment (Stop 40b) near Embankment Underground Station and concludes back at the same point.

Is the bus comfortable and accessible?
The bus, a vintage 1960s Routemaster, is beautifully restored but can get warm, especially in summer. It’s accessible in terms of location, but if you have specific mobility needs, it’s worth confirming with the provider.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the full afternoon tea experience, including savory and sweet snacks, unlimited drinks (tea, coffee, hot chocolate, soft drinks), and guided commentary.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds a layer of flexibility for travelers unsure about their schedules.

Final Thoughts

For those who want a delightful, relaxing way to get a taste of London’s most famous sights, the Great British Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers a cozy, enjoyable experience that combines two British traditions in one charming package. The vintage bus adds a nostalgic touch, while the high-quality food and friendly service make the experience feel personal and special.

It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who appreciate a leisurely pace, good food, and a touch of whimsy in their sightseeing. Though it may not be ideal for those seeking a high-energy exploration or traveling during very hot weather, it’s undoubtedly a memorable way to spend an afternoon in London.

Whether celebrating something special or simply looking for a different way to see the city, this tour blends classic London charm with the comfort of a well-served afternoon tea. We’d recommend it for anyone wanting a cozy, picture-worthy experience with a side of sightseeing and snacks.

Remember: It’s best to check availability ahead of time, especially during busy seasons or special events, and always consider the weather since the experience is mostly outdoors from the bus windows. Enjoy your trip—and cheers to a lovely London adventure on a classic bus!

You can check availability for your dates here: