Edinburgh’s afternoon tea experience on a vintage Routemaster bus is a unique way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks. Theres some good handmade sandwiches, warm scones, and sweet treats while taking in the sights of Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and more. With a maximum of 20 travelers, this self-paced tour offers easy accessibility and a stylish way to discover the city’s rich history. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this experience promises to delight the senses and leave you with cherished memories. But what makes this tour truly extraordinary is the opportunity to…
Key Points
- Vintage Routemaster bus tour through Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace.
- Indulgent afternoon tea experience with handmade sandwiches, warm scones, petit fours, and cupcakes.
- Departure times available to suit schedule, allowing for self-paced enjoyment of sights and tea.
- Easily accessible meeting point at Saint Andrew Square, with tour beginning and ending at the same location.
- Gluten-free and vegetarian options available upon request, catering to various dietary requirements.
Overview
The Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience offers a traditional afternoon tea aboard a vintage Routemaster bus, providing a delightful tour through the city’s iconic landmarks.
With over 1,043 reviews, this experience allows visitors to cruise past attractions like Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace while indulging in a selection of handmade sandwiches, warm scones with cream and jam, petit fours, and sumptuous cupcakes.
Guests can choose from a variety of departure times to suit their schedule, capturing stylish snapshots of the classic vehicle.
This afternoon tea experience provides a unique and memorable way to explore Edinburgh’s beauty and history.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Edinburgh.
Inclusions

The Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience includes a selection of handmade sandwich choices, a home baked warm scone with cream, jam, and strawberry garnish, a variety of petit fours, sumptuous cupcakes, and coffee or tea.
Guests can also purchase alcoholic drinks, and receive a souvenir drinks cup as part of the package.
The tea service is designed to provide a delightful and indulgent experience, with a range of sweet and savory items to savor.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cucumber sandwich or a decadent cupcake, the Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience has something to delight every palate.
Meeting and Pickup
Guests meet at Saint Andrew Square in Edinburgh, EH2, UK, and the tour ends at the same location.
This meeting point is conveniently located and easily accessible, making it simple for participants to find their way.
The tour doesn’t provide any live or recorded commentary, so guests can enjoy the sights and the tea experience at their own pace.
Patrons are requested to arrive 10-15 minutes before the scheduled departure to ensure a smooth start to the tour.
The service isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.
Most travelers can participate, and the operator is committed to providing an inclusive experience without discrimination.
Additional Information
Patrons may be required to share a table during the Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience, depending on the size of their group and the overall number of participants.
Confirmation of the booking is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.
While the tour doesn’t feature live or recorded guide commentary, gluten-free and vegetarian options are available for those with dietary requirements.
Children aged 5 and older are welcome, but those under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.
Most travelers can participate, and the meeting and end point is the same location at Saint Andrew Square.
In the event of tour cancellation or disruption, refunds or transfers may be offered.
Policies
A maximum of 20 travelers are allowed on this Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience.
Discrimination against disability, gender, race, orientation, or beliefs isn’t permitted.
The tour has no toilet on board, and its duration is between 70-90 minutes.
All customer information is kept confidential.
Guests should note that intoxicated or abusive behavior isn’t tolerated, and no refunds will be issued in such cases.
Bookings are only valid for the date and time stated, and patrons may be required to share a table.
Gluten-free or vegetarian options are available upon request.
While children aged 5 and above are welcome, those under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
In the event of tour cancellation or disruption, refunds or transfers may be offered.
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Vintage Routemaster Bus Tour
The Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience offers a unique opportunity to cruise past the city’s iconic landmarks on a vintage Routemaster bus.
Passengers can capture stylish snaps on board this classic vehicle as they enjoy a traditional afternoon tea service.
The tour departs from Saint Andrew Square and ends at the same location, with the entire experience lasting 70-90 minutes.
Guests can choose a departure time that suits their schedule, and they’ll be treated to a selection of handmade sandwiches, warm scones with cream and jam, petit fours, and sumptuous cupcakes, all complemented by coffee or tea.
Alcoholic drinks are also available for purchase on board.
Edinburgh Landmarks Cruise
As passengers cruise aboard the vintage Routemaster bus, they’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks, including the majestic Edinburgh Castle and the grand Holyrood Palace.
The bus tour allows them to soak in the city’s rich history and stunning architecture as they pass by these famous sites.
Whether it’s snapping photos of the castle’s imposing silhouette or marveling at the palace’s ornate façade, the Edinburgh landmarks cruise offers a unique perspective of the city’s most beloved attractions.
Guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the beauty and grandeur of Edinburgh’s most famous landmarks during this delightful afternoon tea experience.
Customizable Departure Times
Flexibility in scheduling allows visitors to tailor the Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience to their preferred departure time, ensuring the experience seamlessly fits into their day. Guests can choose from a range of departure times, from late morning to early afternoon, to accommodate their sightseeing plans or other commitments. This customizable schedule provides a convenient and hassle-free way to enjoy the traditional afternoon tea on a vintage bus tour, without having to adjust their itinerary around a fixed schedule.
| Departure Times | Duration | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00 AM | 70-90 minutes | Limited |
| 12:00 PM | 70-90 minutes | Most Popular |
| 2:00 PM | 70-90 minutes | Limited |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks on the Bus?
No, you cannot bring your own food or drinks on the bus. The experience includes a selection of handmade sandwiches, scones, petit fours, and tea or coffee. Any alcoholic drinks must be purchased on board.
What Is the Dress Code for the Afternoon Tea Experience?
There is no formal dress code for the afternoon tea experience. Travelers should dress comfortably in casual attire suitable for dining out. Smart-casual wear is appropriate, though the experience does not require formal or dressy clothing.
Are Photos and Videos Allowed During the Tour?
Photos and videos are generally allowed during the tour. However, patrons are requested to be courteous and respectful of others’ experiences. Filming or photography shouldn’t disrupt the tour or other guests.
Is the Bus Heated or Air-Conditioned?
The vintage Routemaster bus is neither heated nor air-conditioned, as it was designed for traditional touring purposes. Guests should dress comfortably for the weather conditions during their afternoon tea experience on the open-top bus.
Can I Reschedule or Cancel My Booking if Needed?
Yes, you can reschedule or cancel your booking if needed. The tour operator offers refunds or transfers for potential tour cancellations or disruptions, so you have flexibility with your plans.
Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience
Recap
This Edinburgh afternoon tea experience offers a delightful way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks.
Ride a vintage Routemaster bus while savoring handmade treats and sipping coffee or tea.
With easy accessibility and a small group size, it’s a stylish and self-paced tour that showcases Edinburgh’s rich history.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this tour provides a charming and memorable way to experience the city.

















