Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus in London

Discover London Sights and Afternoon Tea on a Vintage Double-Decker Bus

The Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus in London offers a unique way to explore the city’s most famous landmarks while indulging in a traditional afternoon tea. Priced at $82.65 per person, this 1 hour 25-minute journey combines sightseeing with delicious sandwiches, cakes, and pastries served in a charming vintage bus setting. The tour is highly booked, typically 34 days in advance, making it a popular choice for visitors seeking a memorable experience.

This tour departs from Victoria Coach Station, using a classic 1960s Routemaster double-decker bus. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy iconic sights like Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, Harrods, and Hyde Park without the fatigue of walking. The onboard commentary offers engaging stories about London’s history and architecture, making this a relaxing yet informative adventure.

While the tour includes a generous selection of food and tea, it’s worth noting that top deck seating isn’t guaranteed, and there are no onboard toilets. Still, the overall experience scores a solid 4.5 out of 5, praised for its delicious food, friendly staff, and charming atmosphere. It’s especially suitable for visitors looking for a fun, casual, and tasty way to explore London’s highlights.

Key Points

• Combines sightseeing with afternoon tea in a vintage double-decker bus
• Priced at $82.65 per person, with pre-booking recommended
• Duration of approximately 1 hour 25 minutes
• Departs from Victoria Coach Station in central London
• Includes sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and unlimited tea options
• Seats on the upper or lower level are assigned without choice, and no toilets onboard

Starting Point at Victoria Coach Station

The tour begins at Victoria Coach Station, located at 164 Buckingham Palace Road. This well-connected spot makes it easy to reach via public transportation. From here, a vintage Routemaster bus awaits, ready to whisk you through London’s streets while serving afternoon tea. The boarding process is smooth, and the bus capacity varies between 32 seats in Bus 1 and 44 seats in Bus 2.

The departure times are flexible, with several options to fit different schedules. It’s a good idea to reserve your spot in advance, especially during busy seasons. The return is to the original meeting point, making this a convenient round-trip experience without the need for additional arrangements.

Touring London’s Iconic Landmarks in Style

Once seated, the vintage double-decker begins its tour through central London, passing major landmarks and lively districts. Harrods and Knightsbridge are driven past, giving guests a glimpse of London’s luxurious shopping scene. The route also takes in Hyde Park and Mayfair, two of the most elegant and historic areas of the city.

As the bus moves through the streets, pre-recorded commentary provides insights into London’s history and architecture. Reviewers note that while the commentary is informative, some wish for more detailed descriptions of the sights. Despite this, the atmosphere on board remains lively, thanks to the music and friendly staff.

Sights Visible from the Bus

The tour showcases London’s most recognizable sights in a relaxed setting. Passengers get a panoramic view from the upper deck, ideal for photography and sightseeing. The bus drives past Trafalgar Square, offering a chance to enjoy the sights without the physical strain of walking.

Big Ben remains one of the highlights, with the bus passing by the Houses of Parliament. The route also includes a drive past the British Museum and through the heart of Westminster, giving an iconic perspective of London’s governmental and cultural centers.

The Authentic Afternoon Tea Experience

The afternoon tea served on the bus is a highlight, with freshly made sandwiches, scones, and cakes supplied by a local bakery. Guests can pre-book special dietary options, including vegetarian, pescatarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices, though nut allergies are not catered for.

Unlimited tea is included, with a variety of options to suit all tastes. The food is generally praised as plentiful and tasty, with many reviews highlighting the delicious scones and generous servings. The staff is attentive, ensuring everyone’s needs are met, and the decor of the bus adds to the charming, quintessentially English vibe.

Seating and Comfort Considerations

Seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, and up deck seats are not guaranteed. The lower level offers more protection from the sun and traffic noise, which can be preferable during hot days. Some reviews mention heat inside the bus, especially in warmer weather, despite staff trying to supply ice water.

There are no onboard toilets, so passengers with mobility issues or those requiring frequent bathroom breaks should plan accordingly. It’s also worth noting that most travelers under 5 years old are not permitted for safety reasons, and the bus does not stop during the tour.

Special Experiences and Unique Highlights

The vintage Routemaster adds a nostalgic charm that many find appealing. The classic feel of the double-decker enhances the sightseeing experience, making it different from typical bus tours. The atmosphere is described as fun, lively, and cozy, with background music and bus decor contributing to the overall vibe.

One notable aspect praised in reviews is the opportunity to see London’s sights in a relaxed way—no walking required, just enjoy the scenery and treats. During evening or festive seasons, guests have enjoyed viewing Christmas lights while sipping tea, adding a seasonal magic to the experience.

Food and Beverage Selection

Guests enjoy a variety of sandwiches and pastries, with hot and cold drinks available. The tea options are plentiful, and the cakes and scones are described as delicious and plentiful. The local bakery providing the food is recognized for its quality, and many reviews mention requesting to take leftovers home.

The pre-booking of dietary requirements ensures everyone can enjoy the food comfortably. The service is often highlighted as friendly and attentive, making the overall dining part of the experience enjoyable and stress-free.

Accessibility and Group Size

The tour offers a maximum capacity of 44 travelers, which allows for a lively but manageable group. The service animals are permitted, and the tour is generally suitable for most adults and older children. However, children under 5 are not allowed, mainly for safety concerns.

The bus is near public transportation, simplifying access for visitors staying in central London. Most travelers find the tour accommodating, but those seeking quiet or private seating might find the seating allocation less flexible.

Limitations and Considerations

While the experience is highly praised, some limitations include no guarantee of upper deck seats and the absence of toilets onboard. The noise level during peak times can make the narration hard to hear, especially if the bus is crowded or guests are talking loudly.

Traffic congestion can also impact the journey, and some reviews mention the bus being too hot, particularly on warmer days. It’s wise to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly, bringing water or sun protection if needed.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The combination of sightseeing and afternoon tea on a vintage bus creates a distinctive and memorable experience. The classic Routemaster bus and delicious food make it appealing for those wanting a fun, relaxed way to see London’s highlights.

While it may not be the best option for detailed sightseeing or those needing accessibility accommodations, it excels as a lighthearted, enjoyable outing that offers great value for money. It’s especially ideal for families, couples, or visitors celebrating special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries.

Who Will Enjoy This Most?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to London who want a taste of the city’s landmarks combined with a casual afternoon tea. It also appeals to those who love vintage charm, delicious food, and a relaxed sightseeing pace. The lively atmosphere makes it suitable for families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a fun outing.

However, travelers seeking a quiet, in-depth exploration or with specific accessibility needs should consider other options. The no stops during the tour and no onboard toilets are important factors for planning.

The Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus offers a charming way to explore London’s most iconic landmarks while enjoying a classic afternoon tea experience. With its vintage Routemaster bus, delicious food, and engaging commentary, this tour provides a relaxed, enjoyable way to see the city. It scores an impressive 4.5 out of 5 based on 1,736 reviews, reflecting its popularity and quality.

While not suited for those needing accessibility features or a quiet environment, the overall delightful atmosphere, friendly service, and beautiful views make it a memorable choice for many visitors. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a different perspective on London, this afternoon tea in a vintage bus remains a unique, tasty adventure worth considering.