London: Royal Windsor Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Introduction: A Unique Way to See Windsor and Enjoy Afternoon Tea

If you’re looking for a way to combine sightseeing with a quintessential British tradition, the Royal Windsor Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers a charming option. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the concept of touring Windsor from a vintage bus while nibbling on sandwiches and scones sounds delightfully memorable.

What we love about this experience is how it blends visual pleasure—with panoramic views of Windsor’s most famous landmarks—from the upper deck, with the culinary comfort of a traditional afternoon tea. Plus, the opportunity to sip on a glass of prosecco as you glide past Windsor Castle and Eton College adds a sophisticated touch.

A potential drawback? The tour’s 1.5-hour duration means it’s quite a quick peek at Windsor’s highlights, not a deep dive. Also, since tables might be shared, those seeking an intimate or private experience could find this less suited.

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, all-in-one sightseeing and tasting experience—ideal for those who appreciate British customs but prefer to stay comfortably seated. Families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see Windsor from a different perspective will find it especially appealing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique combination of sightseeing and afternoon tea on a vintage bus.
• Panoramic upper deck views of Windsor’s most iconic landmarks.
• Tasty menu with a variety of sandwiches, scones, sweet treats, and fine teas.
• Flexible options for dietary needs like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, with advance notice.
• Includes a souvenir mug and a glass of prosecco or soft drink.
• Limited duration, so it’s a quick, enjoyable taste of Windsor’s highlights.

Experience Overview: A Delightful Blend of Sightseeing and Tasting

The Royal Windsor Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers a charming way to explore this historic town while enjoying some of the best-known British treats. Starting at the Theatre Road in Windsor, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable, traditional bus. The journey lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll get a lively, yet relaxed, overview of Windsor’s most famous sights.

The tour is run by Golden Tours – Gray Line London, a reputable company known for creating memorable experiences. The route covers key landmarks like Windsor Castle—the Queen’s weekend home—and historic sites like Holy Trinity Church and Eton College. While the bus takes you around, staff members will point out interesting details—though there’s no live guide, so you’ll need to listen carefully.

What makes this experience special is how it combines sightseeing with afternoon tea service. Imagine sitting comfortably with a cup of your preferred tea, listening to the tour’s commentary, and taking in stunning views of Windsor’s picturesque streets and historic architecture. If you choose the prosecco option, you’ll be able to toast your visit in style.

The Food and Drink: A British Classic with a Luxurious Twist

The afternoon tea menu is a highlight, offering a range of sandwiches, snacks, and sweet treats. The selection includes the traditional scone—best enjoyed with homemade strawberry jam and clotted cream—and an array of mini cakes and canapes.

The menu is thoughtfully designed to cater to different dietary preferences: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or the standard option. Vegan and gluten-free options require a reservation at least 72 hours ahead, which is worth noting if dietary considerations are important to you. The quality of the tea—a selection of fine teas—is generally well-reviewed, adding to the authentic local experience.

The glass of prosecco or soft drink is included in the ticket price, making it a nice touch for those wanting a bit of bubbly or just a refreshing beverage. Additional food and drinks are available for purchase if you find yourself wanting more after the main offering.

The Landmark Views and the Visual Experience

One of the greatest advantages of this tour is the panoramic vantage point it offers. The upper deck is perfect for photographers or anyone who wants a broad view of Windsor’s rooftops, spires, and castle battlements.

Highlights include glimpses of Windsor Castle—the largest inhabited castle in the world—and the elegant spire of Holy Trinity Church. The route also passes near Eton College, a site of national importance and a source of pride for the town.

While the route may shift due to traffic or road closures, the staff will do their best to showcase Windsor’s most photogenic spots, giving you plenty of opportunities to snap pictures. Several reviews have praised the stunning vistas from the bus, making it clear that the views are a key part of the appeal.

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Practical Details and Considerations

The tour departs from Theatre Road, Thames Street, and it’s advisable to arrive 15 minutes early. The journey ends back at the same spot, making it easy to plan your day around this experience.

Group sizes are not specified, but given the nature of the tour, expect a small to medium-sized group, often with shared tables, which encourages conviviality but might limit privacy.

Since there are no toilets on board, plan accordingly—especially if traveling with children or those with health considerations. Wheelchair users can sit on the lower deck but must use a fixed seat, so it’s wise to inform the operator in advance.

The duration of 1.5 hours is perfect for a relaxed, not rushed experience—ideal for combining with other visits in Windsor. Pricing offers good value considering the included food, drinks, and sightseeing, but keep in mind that additional purchases are possible.

Authenticity and Overall Value

While this isn’t a historical deep dive, the blend of sightseeing, relaxing, and tasting makes it an inviting option for travelers who want a taste of Windsor without the hassle of walking around or booking separate meals.

Guests appreciate the friendly staff and the quality of the food, with many noting that the views and the atmosphere create a memorable experience. The fact that prosecco is included adds a touch of celebration, especially suited for couples or special occasions.

The experience is particularly valuable for those new to Windsor or visitors short on time who want to see the main sights while enjoying a traditional afternoon tea in a lively, iconic setting.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who prefer a comfortable, guided experience and enjoy delicious food and drinks. It’s an excellent choice for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed way to experience Windsor’s history and beauty.

Keep in mind that it caters more to those who value social, shared experiences rather than privacy, and it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues beyond lower deck seating.

Those with dietary restrictions, especially vegan or gluten-free, should pre-arrange their meals to ensure they’re well catered for. If you’re after in-depth historical commentary, this may not be the tour for you, as it’s more about the visual and culinary experience than detailed narration.

The Sum Up

The Royal Windsor Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers a charming, easy way to see Windsor’s most beloved sights while enjoying a traditional British afternoon tea. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, fun, and somewhat luxurious way to combine sightseeing with a taste of local customs. The panoramic views from the upper deck, paired with delicious food and a glass of prosecco, make it a memorable outing for a variety of travelers.

While not suitable for those seeking an intensely educational or private experience, it excels at providing a lighthearted, atmospheric glimpse of Windsor that’s as much about the enjoyment as the sightseeing. The friendly staff, quality food, and stunning vistas make it worth considering, especially if you’re short on time or want to add a touch of indulgence to your visit.

This tour represents good value for those looking to combine British tradition, scenic views, and relaxed luxury into one enjoyable outing.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult. Under 5s are not allowed, so check age restrictions before booking.

Can I request vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free menus?
Yes, the tour offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. These must be requested at least 72 hours in advance; otherwise, a standard meal will be served.

Does the tour include a guide?
There is no live guide onboard, but staff will highlight points of interest and landmarks during the journey to help you learn about Windsor.

Are there toilets on the bus?
No, the bus does not have toilets. Plan for bathroom breaks before or after the tour.

What about accessibility?
Wheelchair users can sit on the lower deck but will need to use a fixed seat. It’s advisable to notify the tour operator ahead of time.

Can I bring my own drinks or food?
Additional food and drinks are not included in the tour price but can be purchased separately if desired.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the afternoon tea, a glass of prosecco or soft drink, the sightseeing route, and a souvenir mug.

Is the route fixed?
The route may change due to traffic or road closures, but staff will do their best to show you Windsor’s key landmarks.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable outing for most visitors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making reservations flexible and low-risk.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Royal Windsor Afternoon Tea Bus Tour—a charming way to combine sightseeing, tradition, and a little luxury. Perfect for those who want a taste of Windsor’s beauty and history with the comfort of a seated, social experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: