“Here We Go Again” London Afternoon Tea Bus

If you’re a fan of ABBA or just looking for a playful way to see London’s top sights, the “Here We Go Again” afternoon tea bus tour offers a lively mix of sightseeing, music, and treats. While it’s not a deep historical tour, it certainly hits the right notes for those seeking a relaxed, entertaining afternoon in the city.

What makes this experience stand out are its cheerful theme and the chance to combine sightseeing with afternoon tea, complete with prosecco and ABBA classics. We particularly appreciate how it fosters a convivial atmosphere—perfect for meeting fellow travelers—and offers a unique twist on London sightseeing. However, if you’re after a more traditional or educational experience, this might not be your best fit. It’s ideal for ABBA fans, music lovers, or anyone wanting a break from the usual sightseeing routine.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy music-themed activities, are comfortable on a bus for about an hour and a half, and are eager to combine leisure with iconic city views. It’s a lighthearted outing that offers a different way to enjoy London—especially if you’re planning to indulge in a bit of fun and frivolity.

Key Points

• Themed Experience: An ABBA-inspired afternoon tea combined with sightseeing.
• Great Value: At $67.21 per person, including food, drinks, and entertainment.
• Ideal for ABBA Fans: Sing along to classic hits while cruising around London.
• Social Atmosphere: Meet and mingle with fellow travelers in a small group.
• Iconic Stops: Views of Westminster Abbey, London Eye, and Tower Bridge.
• Flexible Menu Options: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or standard choices.

Analyzing the Experience: What to Expect and Why It Matters

The Concept: Combining Music, Sightseeing, and Afternoon Tea

This tour offers a playful way to see London’s highlights from a comfortable double-decker bus while enjoying a delicious afternoon tea. The experience lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes, a perfect length for a relaxed afternoon outing. The inclusion of ABBA classics is a clever touch, appealing to fans who love singing along to familiar tunes. The music isn’t just background noise; it’s what binds the whole experience together.

The Itinerary: Highlights and Notes

The tour starts at the Golden Tours Bulleid Way departure point, and from there, you’ll enjoy a scenic ride past some of London’s most famed landmarks.

• Westminster Abbey: Your first stop, Westminster Abbey, is a Gothic marvel and the traditional site for coronations. While the tour doesn’t cover the history in depth, you’ll get a chance to admire its grandeur from outside, situated just next to Big Ben. It’s a perfect starting point for appreciating London’s historical center, even if only from the bus window.

• The London Eye: Next, you’ll get sweeping views of the city from the iconic London Eye. Though the tour doesn’t include a ride, the panoramic views from the bus and from the street are impressive. It’s a great way to see the city’s skyline while enjoying your treats.

• Tower Bridge: The sightseeing continues at Tower Bridge, where you’ll see this 135-year-old engineering marvel. The bridge’s history and the interactive displays offer extra context if you’re inclined to explore further afterward.

The Food and Drinks: A Treat for the Senses

Included in the tour is a classic afternoon tea menu tailored to dietary needs—vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or standard options are available. You’ll enjoy savoury sandwiches, sweets, and cake, complemented by a glass of prosecco for those over 21.

The reviews highlight the quality of the food, with travelers describing it as “lovely sandwiches” and “delicious sweets”. The inclusion of prosecco adds a celebratory touch, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. However, note that alcoholic drinks are only served to travelers over 21, with non-alcoholic options for others, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably.

The Atmosphere: A Social, Lighthearted Experience

With a maximum group size of 26, the tour maintains an intimate, friendly environment. We loved the casual, fun vibe—singers can’t help but join in, and many reviews mention how “everyone was singing along”. It’s a great way to break the ice if you’re traveling alone or in a group.

The audio guide, in English, provides some context about landmarks but isn’t a full historical narration. This keeps the focus on enjoyment rather than education, which suits the theme perfectly.

Practical Considerations: What You Should Know

The tour is booked an average of 73 days in advance, indicating its popularity. The price of $67.21 per person includes food, drinks, and entertainment, which is reasonable considering the combined experience.

No hotel pick-up or drop-off is provided, so plan to meet at the designated starting point on Bulleid Way. The tour operates most days, and confirmation is received at the time of booking, making it hassle-free to plan ahead.

What Past Travelers Say

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 50 reviews. One reviewer succinctly summed it up: “Fun afternoon in this ABBA themed tea tour.” They appreciated how it offered a relaxing way to see highlights while enjoying a delightful menu and singing along to ABBA.

Another frequent praise is for the friendly atmosphere and the quality of the food. Travelers mention that the food and prosecco are both enjoyable, and the music creates a lively, convivial environment. Some noted that it’s not a deep dive into London’s history but a perfect, spirited way to experience the city with some fun.

Detailed Breakdown of Each Stop

While the main focus isn’t on in-depth sightseeing, each landmark provides a chance for photos and quick admiration. The outside views from the bus are generally sufficient for a visitor who wants a quick, scenic overview without the long walks or entry fees.

• Westminster Abbey: Its impressive Gothic architecture is more striking from outside, especially when viewed from the bus, making it a good photo opportunity.
• London Eye: Although not riding the capsule, simply seeing it from the river offers a sense of scale and the opportunity for memorable photos.
• Tower Bridge: The walkways and interactive exhibits are accessible if you want to extend your visit afterward; the tour itself only covers the outside views.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour shines brightest for ABBA fans, music lovers, and those seeking a casual, social outing. It offers great value for the price, especially when you consider the included food, drinks, and entertainment. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a fun, lighthearted afternoon rather than a formal or educational sightseeing tour.

If you’re interested in meeting fellow travelers and enjoying London’s sights in a relaxed, upbeat environment, this experience is a solid choice. The small group size and friendly vibe make it feel more personal, while the musical theme keeps things lively.

However, if you prefer in-depth history, guided commentary, or a more traditional sightseeing experience, you might want to look elsewhere. Also, keep in mind the no hotel pickup policy and the necessity to meet at the designated location.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since alcoholic drinks are only served to those over 21, children can participate but will receive non-alcoholic beverages. It’s best suited for kids who enjoy music and a fun, social atmosphere.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, which makes it a manageable outing for most travelers.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended, as the tour is popular and often booked about 73 days ahead.

Is food included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes afternoon tea with sandwiches, sweets, and cake tailored to dietary preferences.

Are there vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options?
Absolutely, the menu can be adjusted to vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options upon request.

Is there a live guide?
No, there is no live guide. Instead, an audio guide in English provides background information.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. No refunds are available for late cancellations.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Golden Tours Bulleid Way departure point in London.

Are the landmarks explained in depth?
The tour focuses on sightseeing with some commentary via the audio guide, but it does not include detailed historical narratives.

Is the group size small?
Yes, with a maximum of 26 travelers, the experience remains intimate and friendly.

Final Verdict

For travelers who love ABBA, enjoy a lively social atmosphere, and want a relaxed way to see key London sights, the “Here We Go Again” afternoon tea bus offers a charming combination of music, food, and sightseeing. It’s a cost-effective, fun-filled afternoon with memorable moments and plenty of singing.

While it doesn’t replace a comprehensive London tour, it’s a fantastic choice for those looking to add a splash of entertainment and personality to their visit. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups wanting to enjoy a cheerful, musical twist on London’s iconic landscape. Just be sure to book ahead and prepare for a spirited, sing-along afternoon—ABBA style!