London: Royal Windsor Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Thinking about adding a touch of British elegance to your Windsor visit? This Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers an inviting way to combine sightseeing with a proper teatime, all from the comfort of a vintage bus. While it’s not your typical sightseeing tour, it’s a charming experience that suits travelers looking for something a little different—perhaps a relaxing break in the middle of a busy day exploring Windsor’s royal sights.

What we really like about this experience is how it offers panoramic views of Windsor’s most iconic landmarks from the upper deck, plus the chance to indulge in delicious sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats. Adding a glass of prosecco or soft drink makes it feel special without going overboard. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour lasts just 1.5 hours and doesn’t include a live guide, which might matter if you’re after a more in-depth, narrated experience.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, want a taste of British tradition, and are comfortable sharing tables with other guests. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a light, leisurely way to see Windsor’s sights while enjoying some of the best aspects of British afternoon tea.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Combining sightseeing with afternoon tea on a vintage bus creates a memorable, relaxed outing.
• Great Views: The upper deck offers sweeping sights of Windsor’s landmarks like Windsor Castle and Eton College.
• Tasty Menu: The selection includes sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, mini cakes, and sweet treats—plus options for dietary needs if requested well in advance.
• Flexible Beverage Options: Choose between fine teas, a glass of prosecco, or soft drinks.
• No Guide, But Informative: Staff highlight points of interest, making it informative without a live guide.
• Limited Accessibility: Wheelchair users can sit on the lower deck but need to stay in fixed seats, and there are no toilets onboard.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Windsor Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Imagine rolling through Windsor’s charming streets on a classic bus, the upper deck providing panoramic viewpoints of Windsor Castle, Holy Trinity Church, and Eton College. The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours—just enough time to enjoy a leisurely ride with a tasty meal in hand.

You’ll start at Theatre Road, Thames Street, and after setting off, the staff will serve a variety of sandwiches and snacks—think cucumber, smoked salmon, or perhaps egg mayo—along with warm scones loaded with traditional clotted cream and strawberry jam. The menu options are quite thoughtful, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices (which need to be requested at least 72 hours in advance).

As you nibble away, take in the sights from the open-air upper deck. The views of Windsor’s iconic landmarks are genuinely lovely—especially if the weather’s clear. You’ll get to see Windsor Castle, Holy Trinity Church, and Eton College, all while enjoying your meal and a glass of prosecco or soft drink. The onboard staff will point out notable sights, giving you a bit of context, even if there isn’t a dedicated guide narrating the entire route.

The experience concludes back at the starting point, making it a straightforward, no-fuss outing that fits nicely into a day of sightseeing.

The Food and Drink

The afternoon tea menu is what really makes this tour stand out. You’ll enjoy a well-curated selection of sandwiches, savory snacks, and sweet treats—ideal for pairing with your choice of fine tea or a glass of prosecco (for those 18+). Many reviews mention the delicious scones, which are a highlight, often described as homemade with perfect clotted cream and jam.

For those with specific dietary restrictions, the tour offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Just be sure to request these at least 72 hours prior, as the staff needs time to prepare. Without advance notice, a standard menu will be served, which may not suit everyone’s dietary needs.

While the menu is not extensive, it’s thoughtfully put together for a bus tour, offering a balance of flavors without feeling overly filling. The sweet treats—mini cakes and canapés—add a nice touch of indulgence to the experience.

The Value and Overall Experience

At around 1.5 hours, this isn’t a long tour, but it packs in a good mix of sightseeing and relaxation. The ticket price includes the afternoon tea experience, a glass of prosecco or soft drink, the chance to see Windsor’s main sights, and a souvenir mug. The souvenir mug is a small keepsake that adds a little extra to the overall value.

Considering the price, the experience offers a relaxing way to enjoy Windsor without the rush of walking tours or the expense of private guides. It’s particularly good for those who want a gentle, social outing in a beautiful setting—perhaps a romantic afternoon, a relaxed outing with friends, or even a solo traveler who appreciates good food and scenic views.

Some reviews mention the knowledgeable staff who make the experience enjoyable, highlighting points of interest along the way. While it’s not a fully guided tour, the commentary is enough to add context and make the sightseeing more meaningful.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Arrive about 15 minutes early to ensure you’re ready when the bus departs.
• Dress appropriately for the weather—since the upper deck is open, you’ll want sun protection or a raincoat depending on the forecast.
• If you have dietary restrictions, don’t forget to request vegan or gluten-free options at least 72 hours ahead.
• Remember, there are no toilets onboard, so plan accordingly before boarding.
• Wheelchair users can sit on the lower deck but will need to stay in fixed seats.
• Alcohol is only served to those over 18 with valid ID.
• The route might change due to traffic or road closures, but the main sights should still be visible.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy a laid-back, social vibe combined with sightseeing and good food. It’s especially suited for those celebrating something special or simply wanting a taste of British tradition in a fun, scenic setting. If you’re not after a detailed guided tour, but prefer a more relaxed, less structured experience with a great atmosphere, this is a good pick.

However, it might not be the best choice if you’re looking for a deep historical commentary or need full accessibility—especially because of the limited onboard facilities and the need for fixed seating on the lower deck.

Final Thoughts

The Royal Windsor Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers a charming way to see Windsor’s most famous sights while indulging in some of the UK’s best-loved culinary traditions. It combines the thrill of an open-top bus ride with the laid-back pleasure of enjoying a traditional afternoon tea, all set against the backdrop of Windsor’s regal architecture.

For those craving a relaxed afternoon, with a good balance of sightseeing and tasty bites, this tour hits the right notes. It’s a wonderful choice for a leisurely, memorable outing—whether you’re celebrating something special or simply want to enjoy an authentic British experience in a stunning setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour can be enjoyed by older children, children under 15 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Under 5s are not allowed, and it’s not specifically designed as a family activity.

Are meals vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals are available, but they need to be requested at least 72 hours in advance.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is there a guide onboard?
No, there is no live guide. The onboard staff highlight points of interest and landmarks, but it’s not a guided narration.

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

What should I wear?
Dress for the weather—since you’ll be on the open upper deck, bring sun protection or rain gear as needed.

Can wheelchair users participate?
Yes, wheelchair users can sit on the lower deck but must use one of the fixed seats.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short, relaxed outing.

What landmarks will I see?
Expect to see Windsor Castle, Holy Trinity Church, and Eton College, along with other scenic sights.

Is alcohol served?
Yes, but only to guests aged 18 and over with valid ID.

If you’re after a good-looking, tasty, and relaxing way to enjoy Windsor’s sights without too much fuss, this afternoon tea bus tour could just be the gentle, memorable experience you need.

You can check availability for your dates here: