London Afternoon Tea Bus and Panoramic Tour on Lower Deck

The London Afternoon Tea Bus and Panoramic Tour on the Lower Deck offers a charming blend of sightseeing and a traditional British high tea experience. Priced at $67.21 per person and lasting roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes, this tour is perfect for those who want to combine a relaxed meal with the excitement of London’s famous landmarks. The tour departs from Golden Tours, Bulleid Way, just a short walk from Victoria Station, making it easy to access via public transportation.

While the experience includes a delicious assortment of finger sandwiches, scones, cakes, and a glass of Prosecco or soft drink, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention issues with food quality and organization. This tour works best for visitors who value great views and a cozy setting over a fully narrated or highly structured tour. It’s suitable for most guests, but children below 5 are not allowed, and late arrivals risk missing out.

Key Points

• Price: $67.21 per person for a 90-minute sightseeing and high tea experience
• Start location: Golden Tours, Bulleid Way, near Victoria Station
• Highlights: Panoramic views from the lower deck of a double-decker bus, iconic London landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey
• Food: Assorted finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, mini pastries, and cakes with Prosecco or soft drink included
• Experience style: Shared seating on the lower deck, with no live guide, music may be loud, and no restrooms on board
• Reviews: Many appreciate the scenic ride and friendly staff, but some cite quality issues and lack of narration as drawbacks

Starting Point and How to Join the Tour

The tour kicks off at Golden Tours, Bulleid Way location, conveniently close to Victoria Station. Guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes early to secure preferred seating, as seats are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The departure point is straightforward to reach via public transport, and the activity includes a mobile ticket for easy access.

The tour ends back at the same meeting point, completing the circular route through central London. This setup ensures a convenient location for travelers wanting to continue exploring after the experience.

Exploring the London Landmarks from the Bus Lower Deck

During the 90-minute ride, travelers pass by many of London’s top sights including Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, and the Coca-Cola London Eye. The route offers a chance to admire these iconic landmarks against the backdrop of the city’s hustle and bustle.

Notably, at Piccadilly Circus, the tour provides views of the vibrant junction connecting Regent Street, Shaftesbury Avenue, and other busy streets. The London Eye on the South Bank offers spectacular perspectives of the city, especially at sunset or when illuminated at night.

The Food and Drink Experience on the Bus

Guests enjoy a selection of homemade finger sandwiches that include hummus and falafel or salmon with cream cheese, catering to a variety of tastes. The mini pastries, cakes, and clotted cream with jam complement the British tradition of afternoon tea. Included in the ticket price is a glass of Prosecco or soft drink; additional drinks are not available on board.

The quality of the food receives mixed reviews. Some guests find the sandwiches and pastries enjoyable and praise the friendly staff, while others describe the food as bland or old-looking. The loud music played during the ride can make conversation difficult, which is a common complaint.

The Views and Pacing of the Tour

The lower deck of the double-decker bus provides good panoramic views of central London, but some reviews suggest that nighttime or poor weather can impact photo opportunities due to glare or reflections on the windows. The route is subject to traffic conditions and road closures, which may extend the duration beyond 90 minutes.

Guests often appreciate the visual experience but note that the narration is absent, relying instead on music and external sights. Some reviewers have expressed a desire for more commentary or guided explanations about the landmarks.

Seating and Comfort on the Bus

Seating is on the lower deck, with shared tables to accommodate multiple groups. Seats are allocated upon arrival, and specific seating requests are not available. The bus does not have toilets, so guests should plan accordingly.

Bus cleanliness varies, with some feeling that the vehicle’s interior appears aged and not very clean. Noise levels from the music can be overwhelming, affecting the overall enjoyment for those seeking a quieter experience.

Service Quality and Guest Feedback

Many reviews highlight friendly staff and good service, noting that waitstaff are welcoming and helpful. However, disorganization issues are also mentioned, such as late departures or incorrect seating assignments.

A few guests express disappointment due to lack of narration and perceived low value, especially if the food or viewing experience does not meet expectations. Conversely, those seeking a casual, scenic outing with tea and snacks generally enjoy the experience.

Practical Tips for Booking and Attending

Guests should arrive 15 minutes early to secure preferred lower deck seating. It’s important to confirm meal preferences at least 72 hours beforehand; otherwise, the general menu will be served. No special dietary requests can be accommodated on the day.

Children below 5 are not permitted, and children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult. Late arrivals risk missing the tour, as departures are strict. Guests should also remember that restrooms are not available onboard.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Experiences

While the London Afternoon Tea Bus offers a unique way to see the city, some reviews suggest it lacks detailed narration compared to guided tours. Alternatives like big bus hop-on-hop-off tours or specialized sightseeing cruises may provide more comprehensive commentary.

However, the combination of scenic views and traditional tea in a relaxed setting makes this experience appealing, especially for afternoon outings or special occasions. Pricing is competitive given the food, drink, and sightseeing bundled into one experience.

Final Thoughts on the London Afternoon Tea Bus and Panoramic Tour

This tour delivers a cozy, visually engaging way to enjoy some of London’s most famous sights from a comfortable lower-deck seat. The inclusion of high tea and Prosecco adds a delightful touch, making it ideal for celebrations or leisurely afternoons.

Limitations such as lack of narration, sound issues, and food quality concerns are important to consider. However, for those who value views and a relaxed atmosphere, this experience remains a solid choice. It suits adults and older children seeking a casual, scenic outing rather than a fully guided tour.

The London Afternoon Tea Bus offers good value for a 90-minute ride with delicious food and iconic sights, as long as expectations are aligned with its more laid-back, social style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 are not allowed, and those aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Does the tour include a guided commentary?
No, the tour does not feature a live guide or narration, relying instead on external sights and background music.

Are there restroom facilities onboard?
No, the bus does not have toilets. Guests should plan accordingly.

What is the minimum age for alcohol service?
Alcohol is served only to guests aged 18 and over, with valid ID required.

Can I request specific seating on the bus?
Seating is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and specific requests are not available.

What should I do if I arrive late?
Late arrivals risk missing the tour, as departures are punctual and non-refundable if missed.

Is there a dress code for the tour?
No specific dress code is required; guests should wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather.

Can I extend the tour or get additional food/drinks?
Additional food and drinks are not available onboard; the experience is limited to the included items.

How do I confirm my meal preferences?
Meal preferences must be confirmed at least 72 hours in advance by contacting the provider; otherwise, the general menu is served.

What sets this experience apart from other London sightseeing tours?
The combination of scenic views from a double-decker bus with afternoon tea makes it a relaxed, social way to explore central London, especially suited for leisurely outings or special occasions.