London: Afternoon Tea Bus & Buckingham Palace Entry Option

Imagine cruising through London’s streets while savoring an elegant afternoon tea—sounds like a perfect way to combine sightseeing and indulgence. This London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers just that: a scenic ride around some of the most famous landmarks, complemented by a delicious onboard menu and the chance to explore Buckingham Palace’s State Apartments (July to September). While it’s not a full-day adventure, the compact experience packs in a lot, making it ideal for curious travelers who want a taste of London’s grandeur without the hassle of extensive planning.

What we love about this tour is the combination of guided commentary and the relaxed atmosphere onboard—you get both insightful stories and stunning views. Plus, the onboard chef preparing fresh treats elevates the experience from a typical sightseeing trip to something more special. The option to upgrade to premium seats or add a glass of prosecco offers a dash of luxury that many will appreciate.

One consideration to keep in mind is the duration variability—the tour lasts anywhere from 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and chosen options—so if you’re on a tight schedule, checking the specific start times is wise. This experience suits first-time visitors, fans of afternoon tea, and those looking for a relaxed, guided overview of London’s top sights with a delicious twist.

Key Points

• Scenic Tour of London’s Top Landmarks: Enjoy panoramic views of Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, Tower of London, and more.
• Expert Guided Commentary: Learn fascinating stories about London’s history from knowledgeable live guides.
• Gourmet Afternoon Tea: Relish freshly prepared sandwiches, scones, and cakes from onboard chefs, with vegan and gluten-free options.
• Optional Buckingham Palace Entry: Step inside the lavish State Apartments during July to September with a pre-booked ticket.
• Comfort & Convenience: The bus features air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, USB charging, and a wheelchair-accessible lower deck.
• Upgrade Options: Choose premium seats or add prosecco for a more luxurious experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out at Evan Evans Tours

Your adventure begins at Evan Evans Tours’ central location, where the branded PG Tips bus awaits. This isn’t just a regular sightseeing bus; it’s a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with free Wi-Fi and USB charging—details that add to the ease and enjoyment of your ride. As you settle in, the onboard guide is ready to entertain and inform, setting the tone for a relaxed yet insightful tour.

The Scenic Route & Landmark Passes

The highlight of this tour is the panoramic drive through London’s most recognizable sights. As the bus makes its way along the River Thames, you’ll get to see Big Ben, the London Eye, and Westminster Abbey from a unique vantage point. The guide’s commentary is praised for being both knowledgeable and engaging, making sure you understand the significance of each spot without overwhelming you.

Passing Somerset House, Fleet Street, and St Paul’s Cathedral, the tour offers an easy-to-follow overview of London’s historic center. The route also takes you past the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, giving you a sense of the city’s medieval past and modern vibrancy.

The Value of a Live Guide

One of the most appreciated features—based on reviews—is the expert live tour guide. Travelers note that the guides are knowledgeable and personable, delivering stories with humor and clarity, making the sights more meaningful. Whether you’re a history buff or just an occasional visitor, the guide’s insights deepen your understanding of London’s many layers.

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The Royal Touch: Buckingham Palace

For those interested in the British monarchy, the optional Buckingham Palace State Apartments add a royal flair to the experience. Available from July to September, this behind-the-scenes glimpse into royal life reveals lavish rooms used by The King and royal family members. It’s an exclusive perk that many visitors find worthwhile—though it does require pre-booking and an additional fee.

The Afternoon Tea Menu: A Feast for the Senses

The onboard afternoon tea is more than a snack; it’s a carefully curated menu that reflects traditional British tastes. The standard menu features delicate sandwiches like honey roast gammon with pickled onion and smoked salmon with crème fraîche, alongside scones with clotted cream and jam, and a tempting selection of mini cakes and tarts.

Vegan and gluten-free options are available, which is a thoughtful inclusion for those with dietary restrictions. The cakes and scones are freshly baked, and the presentation is lovely, elevating the simple act of tea-drinking into a memorable indulgence.

Drinks & Upgrades

You can enjoy a variety of hot beverages—ranging from PG Tips teas to Lavazza coffee—all served with semi-skimmed, skimmed, or oat milk. Cold drinks include prosecco, juices, and water. The prosecco option, available with pre-order, adds a celebratory touch, especially for special occasions.

For an extra touch of luxury, you can upgrade your seating to premium seats on the upper deck—front-row or near the stairs—for better views. The lower deck seats, while accessible and air-conditioned, tend to have partial obstructions, so if panoramic views matter, the upgrade is worth considering.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s route is designed to maximize sightlines and storytelling:

• Starting Point: Evan Evans Tours, where you board the bus
• Big Ben: A quick 10-minute pass-by gives you a perfect photo opportunity
• London Eye: Another 10-minute glimpse of this iconic Ferris wheel, great for photos
• Somerset House: A brief 5-minute pass, giving you a sense of London’s arts and culture hub
• Fleet Street: Pass by this historic street known for journalism, in about 10 minutes
• St Paul’s Cathedral: A 10-minute pass, offering a chance to spot this architectural marvel
• Tower Bridge & Tower of London: Each gets a 10-minute view, perfect for photos and imagining royal and medieval history
• River Thames: A 10-minute cruise along the river, with sweeping views and informative commentary
• Westminster Abbey: A short 5-minute pass, reminding you of London’s royal ceremonies

The tour wraps up at Victoria train station, making it convenient for travelers to continue exploring or catch a train.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included are the brand-branded bus with amenities, panoramic tour, expert guide, onboard chef preparing the afternoon tea, and refreshments. Plus, you’ll get a special souvenir travel cup—a nice keepsake.

Not included are hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to meet at the Evan Evans Tours location.

Is It Worth the Price?

Pricing for this tour is reasonable considering the inclusions—especially the gourmet onboard afternoon tea and the guided commentary. The value increases if you opt for upgrades like premium seats or the Buckingham Palace entry. The convenience of a guided tour combined with a sit-down meal makes it a good choice for those wanting a relaxed, quality experience without the hassle of self-organized sightseeing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of London’s highlights with a touch of elegance. It’s also suited for those who appreciate a leisurely meal and prefer guided commentary over self-navigation. If you’re interested in royal history and a behind-the-scenes peek at Buckingham Palace, the optional visit makes it even more appealing.

On the other hand, travelers on a very tight schedule might find the duration variable—and the tour might not suit those interested in a deep dive into London’s lesser-known neighborhoods. The experience leans toward those who enjoy a combination of sightseeing, storytelling, and fine food.

Final Thoughts

This Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers a uniquely British way to see London: from the comfort of a cozy, well-equipped bus, with stunning views and guided stories to enrich your visit. The onboard afternoon tea is a highlight—not just a snack but a well-presented, tasty meal that complements the sightseeing.

The optional Buckingham Palace visit adds an exclusive layer, especially during the summer months. This tour provides good value, memorable moments, and the chance to indulge a little without sacrificing sight and story.

For travelers who want a relaxed, guided overview of London with a delicious bite, this experience is a charming choice. It’s best for those seeking comfort, convenience, and a taste of royal London—all wrapped into one delightful ride.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You should meet at the starting location.

How long does the tour last? The duration is approximately 90 minutes but can extend up to 4 hours depending on traffic and options chosen.

Can I upgrade my seats? Yes, premium seats are available on the upper deck, located either in the front row or near the stairs, providing better views.

Is the Buckingham Palace visit included? The Palace entry is an optional add-on, available from July to September, requiring pre-booking.

What dietary options are available? There are standard and vegan/gluten-free menus, with details provided in advance for dietary requirements.

Are children allowed? Children and babies under age 5 are not permitted on this tour.

What drinks are available onboard? Hot beverages like teas and coffees, cold drinks like juice and water, and pre-ordered prosecco are offered.

Is the bus wheelchair accessible? Yes, the lower deck has a fully wheelchair-accessible table; contact the provider beforehand to ensure availability.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to pay upfront? You can reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

This tour combines the best of London’s sights, stories, and flavors—making it a memorable way to experience the city with a touch of British elegance.

You can check availability for your dates here: