Irish Afternoon Tea on 1960s Vintage Bus in Dublin

Discover Dublin on a Vintage Bus with Afternoon Tea

This Irish Afternoon Tea on a 1960s Vintage Bus offers a charming blend of sightseeing and delicious treats in Dublin, Ireland. Priced at $98.30 per person, the tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and departs from Stephen Court, St Stephen’s Green at 4:00 pm. The experience is hosted aboard a beautifully restored 1960s Routemaster double-decker bus, providing a nostalgic journey through the city. With most bookings made 51 days in advance, it’s a popular choice for those wanting a memorable, tasty way to explore Dublin.

The tour combines classic afternoon tea with scenic views and engaging stories about Dublin’s landmarks. It’s especially suited for visitors seeking a relaxed, social experience while enjoying some of the city’s top sights. While it’s a cozy and enjoyable ride, be aware that it’s a semi-guided tour, meaning there’s a good balance of guiding and free time for chatting or taking photos.

Key Points

• Includes a full afternoon tea menu with sandwiches, cakes, and pastries
• Rides on a vintage 1960s Routemaster bus through downtown Dublin
• Stops at iconic sights like Christ Church, Trinity College, Stephens Green, and Phoenix Park
• Approximately 1.5 hours long, departing daily at 4:00 pm
• Most guests book this tour 51 days in advance, highlighting its popularity
• Suitable for most travelers, with considerations for food restrictions

The Vintage Route: Riding a Restored 1960s Double-Decker

Travelers board the fully restored Routemaster bus that dates back to the 1960s, adding a nostalgic touch to the sightseeing. This classic double-decker is not only a comfortable ride but also a visual highlight, with a lively atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. The bus’s open windows and spacious upper deck let you enjoy breathtaking views of Dublin as the city’s streets roll by.

The guide leads you through the journey, sharing stories about Dublin’s landmarks, including Christ Church Cathedral, Trinity College, and Phoenix Park. The bus’s vintage charm, combined with the lively commentary and scenic route, makes this tour stand out from traditional walking or bus tours.

Tasting Delights: Afternoon Tea on Board

The highlight for many is the menu of freshly made sandwiches, desserts, cakes, and pastries. The offerings include coronation chicken, plowmans pickle brioche buns, red velvet cake, raspberry and vanilla choux pastries, among others. The food is praised for being delicious and plentiful, making it a perfect pairing with the scenic ride.

Guests are encouraged to bring their appetite, as the portion sizes and variety make this afternoon tea a satisfying experience. The hosts ensure a relaxed atmosphere, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the treats while taking in Dublin’s sights.

Sights Along the Route: Dublin’s Historic and Grand Buildings

Throughout the tour, you’ll pass by some of Dublin’s most famous landmarks and neighborhoods. The route takes in St. Stephens Green, Christ Church, Trinity College, Wood Quay, O’Connell Street, and areas around Phoenix Park. The grand Georgian buildings and green spaces offer a picturesque backdrop to the tasty journey.

The bus’s route is designed to showcase the city’s most notable sights while providing a comfortable, covered setting. This makes it a good option for visitors who prefer not to walk or want a more relaxed way to see Dublin’s highlights.

Meet and Start: Convenient Location at St Stephen’s Green

The tour begins at Stephen Court, St Stephen’s Green, a well-known and accessible spot in central Dublin. The 4:00 pm departure makes it an ideal early evening activity, especially for those looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The meeting point is close to public transportation, adding to the tour’s convenience.

Participants receive a full address on their confirmation voucher, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point. The small group size of up to 36 travelers helps maintain a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

The Host and Guide Experience

The tour features a semi-guided format, where a knowledgeable host provides entertaining stories about Dublin’s history and landmarks. Multiple reviews highlight the friendly, engaging guides, including hosts named Adam, Erin, Liam, and Orla, who are praised for their expertise and lively personalities.

Guests report that the guides are friendly and well-informed, adding a personal touch to the experience. The atmosphere is fun and relaxed, making it easy to chat with fellow travelers or ask questions about Dublin’s history and culture.

Food and Drink Quality

The afternoon tea menu receives high praise for its delicious food and generous portions. The selection features tasty sandwiches, sweet pastries, and cakes, with some reviewers mentioning the red velvet cake, scones, and tarts as particular favorites.

The drink selection, which often includes tea and coffee, complements the meal well. The hosts ensure that everyone’s dietary restrictions are accommodated if communicated in advance.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with the main activity being the seated bus ride. The full address and contact details are provided on the confirmation voucher, making planning easy. Since most travelers can participate, it’s suitable for those with limited mobility, provided they can comfortably sit on the bus.

Guests are advised to communicate any food allergies or special diets ahead of time to ensure their needs are met. The tour’s duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes makes it a manageable activity without feeling rushed.

Customer Satisfaction and Popularity

With a 4.6 out of 5 rating based on 29 reviews, this tour receives strong praise for its friendly staff, good value, and enjoyable experience. Many reviewers describe it as a highlight of their trip to Dublin and recommend it highly. The delicious food, scenic route, and friendly guides are frequently praised as standout features.

However, there is one note of caution: a review mentions that cancellation might be difficult if plans change unexpectedly, so travelers should be aware of the 24-hour cancellation policy for a full refund.

The Sum Up: A Delicious and Scenic Dublin Experience

The Irish Afternoon Tea on a vintage bus delivers a charming way to see Dublin while indulging in traditional afternoon tea. The restored 1960s Routemaster bus, combined with beautiful city views and engaging stories, makes this tour a special outing. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy relaxed sightseeing, tasty treats, and a bit of vintage charm.

While it’s not a full-day tour and doesn’t include extensive walking, the combination of delicious food, scenic route, and friendly guides offers excellent value at $98.30 per person. Most guests find it a delightful addition to their Dublin visit, especially on a mild afternoon or early evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children who enjoy sightseeing and treats will find it enjoyable. Be sure to communicate any food restrictions in advance.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Does the tour cater to dietary restrictions?
Yes, guests should inform the tour provider of any allergies or special diets when booking.

Is the bus accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour is designed primarily as a seated bus experience, making it suitable for most travelers, but those with specific mobility needs should confirm details with the provider.

What landmarks will I see along the route?
Passes include Christ Church, Trinity College, Wood Quay, O’Connell Street, Phoenix Park, and St. Stephens Green.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What is included in the afternoon tea?
Expect freshly made sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and scones, with a variety of sweet and savory options.

What is the departure time and location?
The tour departs at 4:00 pm from Stephen Court, St Stephen’s Green.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 36 travelers for a more intimate experience.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, a semi-guided experience features a knowledgeable host who shares stories and landmarks while you enjoy your tea.