Best of London by LE GRAND – London’s Luxury Bus Tour

Best of London by LE GRAND – London’s Luxury Bus Tour offers a fresh twist on sightseeing by combining iconic landmarks with a touch of elegance. This tour is designed for travelers who want to see the city’s top sights without feeling rushed, all while enjoying a comfortable ride and the option for a gourmet meal. Whether you’re short on time or simply want a relaxed way to experience London’s best, this tour aims to deliver both.

Two aspects stand out immediately. First, the luxurious ambiance of the bus, which features plush armchairs and sofas, makes the journey feel more like a private lounge than a typical sightseeing bus. Second, the combination of sightseeing with a meal—either gourmet bites or an afternoon tea—adds a special touch that many city tours can’t match.

However, a potential consideration is that the tour’s duration is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, which means you’ll see many sights from a moving vehicle but won’t have time for in-depth exploration at each stop. This makes it a good choice for those wanting a quick overview rather than a detailed, slow-paced experience.

This experience should suit travelers who value comfort, enjoy a good meal, and want to tick off London’s must-see landmarks efficiently. It’s also ideal for food lovers new to London who want to combine sightseeing with a taste of British cuisine in a relaxed, stylish setting.

Key Points

• Comfortable luxury: The bus offers plush armchairs and sofas, elevating the typical sightseeing experience.
• Iconic sights: It covers key landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Hyde Park.
• Gourmet options: Choose between delicious bites and traditional afternoon tea, making it a food-centered experience.
• Efficient overview: Great for those with limited time who want a broad taste of London.
• Short duration: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, perfect for a quick yet memorable tour.
• Limited inclusion: Food and beverages are not included in the ticket price, so plan for additional costs.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Experience and Booking Details

Starting at Green Park Underground, this tour is a neat option for those who want a luxurious, hassle-free way to see London. The mobile ticket system streamlines the process—just show your ticket on your phone and hop aboard. The tour departs at 2:00 pm, aligning well with afternoon plans or a leisurely sightseeing day.

With a maximum group size of 32, you won’t feel crowded, and most travelers find this a comfortable way to get around. The service on board has been praised for its quality, with one reviewer noting the “elegant and comfy layout” and excellent service.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See

This tour offers a broad sweep of London’s most recognizable landmarks, making it perfect for first-timers or those wanting a quick refresher.

Starting in Westminster, you’ll pass Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, and the National Gallery, giving you a glimpse of London’s vibrant heart. Riding past Wellington Arch, Hyde Park, and the Royal Albert Hall, you’ll get a feel for London’s royal and cultural landmarks. The highlight is probably Buckingham Palace, where you can imagine the royal ceremonies.

From there, the bus crosses the historic Westminster Abbey and the iconic Big Ben, along with the Houses of Parliament—essential stops for any visitor wanting to see London’s political and religious symbols. Whitehall and Parliament Square offer a peek into London’s government hub, while Downing Street is just a short glimpse from the bus.

Further along, you’ll pass through Soho, Chinatown, and Nelson’s Column—showcasing London’s lively neighborhoods. Attractions like the Victoria & Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, and Harrods add cultural and shopping highlights, even if only from the window.

The Food and Beverage Component

What sets this tour apart is the meal experience. While the gourmet bites and afternoon tea are not included in the ticket price, you can select your preferred option, and it’s a chance to relax while enjoying quintessential British flavors. One review highlights the appeal of a delicious food experience combined with sightseeing, which is rare on city tours.

The Vehicle and Comfort

The double-decker bus is described as elegant and comfy—not just functional but styled for comfort. Instead of cramped seats typical of many city buses, the plush armchairs and sofas make the journey feel more like a private lounge. This can be especially appreciated after a morning of walking or for travelers wanting a more refined experience.

Price and Value

At $65.64 per person, this tour is fairly priced considering the luxury aspect, the convenience of seeing many sights from one vehicle, and the added meal experience. Compared to other London sightseeing options, it offers excellent value for those who prefer comfort and style over rushing from one stop to another.

Authentic Feedback

One shopper praised the “great new product that is unique and special,” expressing satisfaction with the service and comfort. The overall rating of 4 out of 5 from 14 reviews suggests most travelers find it a worthwhile experience, especially given the positive comments about the bus’s style and service.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for visitors who want a stylish, relaxed way to see London’s main sights without the hassle of walking or multiple tickets. It’s ideal for food lovers seeking to combine a meal with sightseeing and for travelers who appreciate comfort and a touch of luxury. If you’re short on time but want an overview that feels indulgent, this is a solid choice.

It’s less suitable for those wanting in-depth exploration or a budget-friendly option, as additional costs for food are not included. Also, if you prefer walking or biking to get a feel for the city, this bus tour might feel too passive.

Final Thoughts

The Best of London by LE GRAND offers a distinctive way to see the city’s most famous landmarks in comfort. The plush seating, combined with the option to enjoy British cuisine, makes it more than just a typical sightseeing bus. It’s a relaxing, stylish experience that allows you to soak in the sights without the fatigue of walking or crowded buses.

For first-time visitors who want a broad overview and an upgrade from standard tours, this experience provides both visual delight and culinary pleasure. While it’s not a deep dive into London’s history, it’s a memorable and enjoyable way to tick off the must-see sights in style.

If your priority is a comfortable, elegant way to enjoy London’s highlights with the added bonus of food, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 are not allowed, so it’s best suited for older kids and adults.

Are the gourmet bites or afternoon tea included in the ticket price?
No, they are not included, but you can select your preferred meal option at additional cost.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a quick but rundown.

Where does the tour start and finish?
It starts at Green Park Underground toilets on Arlington Street and ends back at the same location.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 32 travelers, which helps maintain a comfortable atmosphere.

Is the ticket refundable?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s special about the bus itself?
It features an elegant and comfy layout, with plush armchairs and sofas that enhance the experience.

Can I see London’s landmarks from the bus?
Yes, many iconic sights are visible from the bus, including Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Trafalgar Square.

Is public transportation nearby?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit, making it convenient to access.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Most travelers book about 36 days ahead, indicating good early planning helps secure a spot.

To sum it up, this tour offers a delightful, comfortable way to glimpse London’s top sights, paired with the possibility of enjoying delicious British food. It’s perfect for travelers who want style, convenience, and a taste of luxury—all in one relaxed package.