Buckingham Palace Tour and Afternoon Tea

If you’re planning a trip to London and want a blend of royal grandeur with a taste of classic British tradition, this Buckingham Palace Tour combined with an Afternoon Tea Bus could be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions give us plenty of insight into what makes it stand out—especially for those eager to see the royal residence and indulge in a quintessentially English afternoon.

What we really appreciate about this package is twofold: first, the opportunity to step inside one of the most famous palaces in the world, and second, the chance to relax and enjoy London’s sights from a comfortable, open-top bus while savoring traditional afternoon tea. One potential consideration? It’s a fairly packed four-hour experience, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate stamina who enjoy a mix of history, sightseeing, and a leisurely luxury.

This experience is ideal for visitors who want a well-rounded, accessible introduction to London’s royal heritage and iconic landmarks—perfect for first-timers or those celebrating a special occasion. It offers a great balance of culture and comfort, making it suitable for travelers of most ages—though note that children under 5 are not allowed, and mobility needs should be discussed in advance.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines a royal palace visit with a panoramic sightseeing bus tour and afternoon tea.
• Expert commentary: Includes an audio guide at Buckingham Palace, enriching your understanding of the residence.
• Convenience: All tickets are mobile, and the tour is booked well in advance—average booking is 15 days ahead.
• Authentic British tradition: Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, scones, and a selection of teas.
• Flexible timing: Starts at 10:45 am and ends back at the meeting point, giving you a full 4-hour window.
• Small group feel: Limited to 30 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Exploring Buckingham Palace: The Heart of Royal London

Buckingham Palace is the crown jewel of London’s royal sights. Its impressive façade and storied history make it a must-visit, even if you’re just admiring it from outside. This tour grants you admission to the State Rooms, which are only open to the public at certain times of year, making this a rare opportunity to see inside.

Once inside, you’ll have access to 19 State Rooms, each furnished with exquisite French and English antique furniture, and decorated with masterpieces by Rubens, Canaletto, and Rembrandt. The collection of treasures from the Royal Collection is staggering—sculptures by Canova, porcelain by Sèvres, and more. The experience isn’t just about gazing at opulence; it’s about understanding the history and tradition that maintain this living palace.

One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the gardens of Buckingham Palace, often called “the walled oasis in the middle of London.” They’re a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle, and while the tour doesn’t specify if you’ll see the gardens in detail, they’re generally considered a special feature for those lucky enough to visit.

Expect about two hours for your palace visit, which includes time to explore at your own pace with an audio guide. This flexibility is appreciated by travelers who like to soak in details rather than rush through.

The Scenic London Bus and Sights

After your palace visit, you’re free to make your way to Bulleid Way in Victoria for the afternoon tea. The bus departs at 3 pm, and you’ll be greeted with a glass of Prosecco or a soft drink—an elegant touch that sets the tone for a relaxing afternoon.

The afternoon tea experience aboard the bus is a delightful way to see London’s most iconic landmarks. As the bus glides past Tower Bridge, Big Ben, the London Eye, and other landmarks, you’ll enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and preserves, and small tea cakes. The offered tea selection complements the meal perfectly, although vegan and gluten-free options need to be requested at least 72 hours in advance.

One of the aspects travelers praise is the spectacular views from the bus, combined with a leisurely pace that allows for picture-taking and appreciating the architecture. The glass roof provides plenty of natural light, and the open-air sections let you feel the breeze on warm days.

It’s important to note that the bus route may change due to traffic or road closures, but the route typically covers key London sights. The shared tables foster a convivial atmosphere, and the experience is designed to be relaxed rather than rushed.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour includes admission to Buckingham Palace with an audio guide, as well as the afternoon tea on the bus. It’s a good value considering the cost of separate entries and meals, especially in London, where dining and attraction tickets can add up quickly.

However, there are some important details to consider. Gratuities are optional, and the tour doesn’t include a live guide—your experience depends on your own pace and the self-guided audio at Buckingham Palace. It’s also unescorted, meaning you’ll need to navigate to the departure point on your own after your palace visit.

For those with mobility concerns, advance notice is required to ensure arrangements are made. The tour’s price point ($117.54 per person) is quite reasonable for the full experience, especially when considering the cost of individual tickets to Buckingham Palace and a meal at a restaurant in central London.

What We Loved and What Could Be Better

Our favorite aspects include the opportunity to see the State Rooms—a rare privilege—paired with a relaxing bus tour that covers London’s highlights from a comfortable vantage point. The knowledgeable staff and positive reviews speak to the professionalism and care of the organizers; for example, one reviewer appreciated the care of staff Abisola and Aneesh, who looked after them during their celebration.

A potential drawback? The tour is fairly tight in timing, so if you’re keen to explore London at a more leisurely pace or want more in-depth guide commentary, you might find the experience somewhat hurried. Also, the lack of a live guide means you’ll miss some spontaneous storytelling or local insights.

Nevertheless, for those seeking a balance of culture, comfort, and convenience, this experience offers solid value. It’s well-suited for first-time visitors who want a structured yet authentic taste of London’s royal and scenic highlights.

The Sum Up

This Buckingham Palace Tour combined with an Afternoon Tea Bus presents a well-rounded way to experience London’s regal heritage along with its iconic sights from a comfortable vantage point. The inclusion of admission to the State Rooms adds value for history and palace enthusiasts, while the leisurely bus ride and afternoon tea provide a relaxed, culturally rich atmosphere.

If you are someone who appreciates a mix of history, luxury, and scenic views—and prefer to keep logistics simple—this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suitable for travelers wanting to tick off major sights without the hassle of planning every detail. Families, couples celebrating special occasions, or first-time visitors will find this package delivers both memorable moments and good value.

However, if you prefer a very in-depth, guide-led experience or are traveling with mobility challenges, you might consider other options or ensure you plan your transportation to and from the meeting points.

This experience offers a taste of royal London with the comforts of modern convenience—an elegant way to spend a memorable day in the city.

FAQ

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

How long is the entire experience?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours, starting at 10:45 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 15 days ahead, as this tour is popular and sells out quickly.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket price includes admission to Buckingham Palace with an audio guide and an afternoon tea on the bus.

Can I customize dietary requirements?
Yes, vegan and gluten-free options can be requested at least 72 hours in advance, but menus are subject to change.

Is there a guide on the bus?
No, the bus tour does not include a live guide, but the route covers major landmarks for easy sightseeing.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking and outdoor sightseeing; consider layers if the weather is uncertain.

This thoughtfully curated experience balances historical intrigue with scenic enjoyment, making it perfect for those who want a meaningful yet leisurely visit to London’s royal heart.