London: Great British Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

If you’re looking for a unique way to see London, this Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers a charming blend of sightseeing, relaxation, and a touch of British tradition. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a memorable experience that combines the iconic sights of London with a delightful culinary treat.

What we love about this experience is how it manages to be both leisurely and engaging. First, riding in a restored vintage Routemaster bus adds a nostalgic, cozy vibe that’s hard to match. Second, the full afternoon tea experience—complete with finger sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats—feels indulgent yet perfectly suited for a relaxed afternoon.

One thing to consider is the timing and pace—some reviews mention it feeling a bit rushed when trying to eat, drink, and enjoy the sights simultaneously. If you’re a slow eater or prefer longer sightseeing stops, this might be a little fast for your taste. Still, for those who want a blend of sightseeing with an authentic, tasty break, this tour fits the bill nicely.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a lighthearted, social experience blending iconic London landmarks with a traditional tea party on wheels. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or families who want a cozy, picturesque way to experience London without the typical hustle of a walking tour or crowded museum visit.

Key Points

• Vintage Charm: A restored 1960s Routemaster bus creates an authentic and cozy atmosphere.
• Iconic Landmarks: Tour passes major sights like St Paul’s, Tower of London, the London Eye, and Parliament.
• Culinary Delight: Enjoy a full afternoon tea with a variety of teas, coffees, and sweet and savory snacks.
• Expert Commentary: Guides share interesting facts about London’s landmarks, enhancing the sightseeing experience.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
• Authentic Experience: Combines sightseeing with traditional British afternoon tea, fostering conversation and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Overview and Unique Selling Points

This 1.5-hour journey takes you on a Round London Sightseeing Tour while you indulge in a delightful afternoon tea. The bus, a beautifully restored vintage Routemaster from the 1960s, adds a nostalgic charm that feels like stepping into a piece of London history. The experience isn’t just about the sights, but also about savoring a quintessentially British tradition in an intimate, cozy setting.

The Route and Stops

The tour begins at Embankment (Stop 40b), conveniently close to Embankment Underground Station and along the River Thames, making it easy to access. From there, it takes you past some of London’s most famous landmarks, including:

• Royal Courts of Justice
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Monument (the memorial to the Great Fire)
• Tower of London and Tower Bridge
• The London Eye
• Big Ben & Parliament Buildings
• Westminster Abbey
• 10 Downing Street & Whitehall
• Trafalgar Square
• Piccadilly Circus

Our impressions from reviews highlight that the route covers all the essential sights, providing fantastic photo opportunities from the comfort of the bus. Passengers can relax as they enjoy commentary on these landmarks, making the sightseeing both informative and effortless.

The Onboard Experience

The interior of the bus has been thoughtfully converted for comfort and style, with an inviting, cozy atmosphere. During the ride, you’ll enjoy soothing music and friendly service. The guides and servers are praised for their knowledge, attentiveness, and warmth, making everyone feel well looked after.

The food receives consistent praise—expect a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and sweet pastries. Multiple reviews note that the food is fresh, plentiful, and delicious. Many mention that the bottomless drinks—such as tea, coffee, and hot chocolate—enable you to sip leisurely without worry.

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The Food and Beverage Aspect

One key highlight is the full afternoon tea menu, which is notably more affordable than high-end restaurant teas while still offering quality food and drinks. Reviewers mention that the treats are plentiful, with some suggesting that you might want to pace yourself to avoid overfilling before the sightseeing ends.

A frequent compliment is the friendly staff who keep drinks topped up and make sure guests are comfortable. Several reviews note the variety of blends, with some guests appreciating the bottomless aspect. The food, especially the pastries and scones, consistently earns high marks for flavor and presentation.

What to Expect

While the experience is largely positive, a few reviews point out that the timing can be tight—it’s a balance between enjoying your food and taking in the sights. Some passengers found it a bit hectic trying to eat and follow the commentary, especially if sitting with your back to the window or on a bumpy road.

Weather can also influence comfort; one review mentions that the bus can get quite hot on warm days, but fans are provided. The bus’s air conditioning could be improved, according to some, especially in summer.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

Travelers consistently mention that the bus’s vintage look and décor create a special, almost fairytale-like setting. It feels like a little tea party on wheels, with many noting how many onlookers on the street stop to take photos. The nostalgic music playlist, spanning from the 1960s to modern tunes, adds to the fun ambiance.

Accessibility and Practical Details

The meeting point is centrally located at Embankment, making it easy to find and close to public transport. The duration—1.5 hours—is designed to be relaxed but also leaves some requests from reviews for longer stops or more time to enjoy the food.

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change. Payment is reserve now, pay later, making planning easier for travelers wary of committing upfront.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who appreciate a relaxed pace and want to combine sightseeing with a traditional British treat. It’s ideal for couples, groups of friends, or families who enjoy a bit of nostalgia and socializing. If you already know London well, it offers a charming new perspective from the bus.

It’s also a fantastic choice for visitors who want a light-hearted, memorable way to see the city without the stress of walking or crowded attractions. Keep in mind, it’s a short tour meant more for ambiance and indulgence than exhaustive sightseeing.

Practical Tips

• Book early, especially in peak seasons—this tour gets high praise and can fill up.
• Arrive at the designated meeting point, close to Embankment Station.
• Dress comfortably—be prepared for warm or cool days, and note that the bus can become warm on hot days.
• Pace yourself with the food—there’s plenty, but you might want to avoid overindulging before the sightseeing portion.
• Bring your camera or phone—many guests comment on the great photo opportunities from the bus route.
• Consider sitting on the side of the bus that gives you a better view of landmarks if possible.
• If you have dietary restrictions, check if options like vegetarian are available; some reviews suggest they’re coming soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with children enjoy it, especially since the vintage bus and food are engaging, and the sightseeing is family-friendly.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including the sightseeing route and afternoon tea.

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

Is the food included?
Yes, the tour includes a full afternoon tea experience with savory and sweet snacks, as well as bottomless tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.

Are drinks refillable during the tour?
Absolutely. The staff are attentive and will keep your drinks topped up throughout.

Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point is at bus stop 40B, near Embankment Underground Station, close to the River Thames.

What landmarks will I see?
The route takes you past St. Paul’s, Tower of London, London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, and more.

Is the bus accessible?
While the description doesn’t specify wheelchair access, the bus is a vintage Routemaster, so it’s best to inquire directly if accessibility is a concern.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather; the bus can be warm on hot days and cooler in winter. Bringing a light jacket or layers is recommended.

Final Thoughts

This London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers a delightful mix of sightseeing, history, and genuine British hospitality. The vintage bus creates a charming setting, and the quality food makes it feel like a special treat. It’s an experience that suits those who want a relaxed, social way to enjoy London without the rush of typical tours.

For travelers craving authentic charm and a touch of luxury, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s a perfect way to unwind, capture some fantastic photos, and indulge in a traditional afternoon tea—all while cruising through one of the world’s most iconic cities.

If you’re visiting London and want an experience that’s both visually and gastronomically satisfying, this tour is well worth considering. Just plan ahead to ensure it fits into your itinerary, and enjoy a memorable, cozy ride through London’s bustling streets.

You can check availability for your dates here: