Vintage London Bus Tour Including Cruise with London Eye Option

Discover the Charm of London with a Vintage Bus and Thames Cruise

This $85.04 tour offers a lively and comprehensive way to see London’s most famous landmarks in just over three hours. It combines a vintage Routemaster double-decker bus ride with a guided cruise along the River Thames, providing both land and water perspectives. An optional London Eye experience can be added at booking, making this a flexible choice for those eager to include a panoramic view from above.

The tour departs from Victoria Coach Station, a central location close to many public transportation options. The group size is limited to 40 travelers, ensuring a friendly, engaging atmosphere. While the tour’s pace is generally smooth and well-structured, expect some traffic delays with the vintage bus, which is a common challenge for sightseeing routes in London.

This experience is particularly suited for first-time visitors, photography enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy a well-rounded overview of London’s top sights without the hassle of independent planning. Existing reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, scenic river cruise, and the charm of the vintage bus—though some note that timing and weather can influence the overall experience.

Key Points

• Price of $85.04 per person for a 3 hour 30 minute tour including bus, cruise, and optional Eye ride
• Vintage Routemaster double-decker offers panoramic views, especially in summer
• Thames River cruise provides unique water-level perspectives of London landmarks
• Stops include Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, and more
• Guided commentary from personable guides enhances the experience
• Optional London Eye add-on provides breathtaking city views from a glass capsule

Starting Point at Victoria Coach Station

The tour begins at Victoria Coach Station, located at 164 Buckingham Palace Rd. This spot is easy to access via public transportation, making it convenient for most visitors arriving in central London. The departure time is generally morning, with the tour lasting approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Participants board a bright red, vintage double-decker Routemaster bus that immediately sets the tone with its nostalgic charm. The bus is open-topped, giving unobstructed views of London’s skyline and landmarks during summer months. The bus driver and guide work together to lead a smooth ride through iconic streets and past historic sites.

Landmarks Seen from the Vintage Routemaster Bus

As the vintage Routemaster winds through central London, it passes Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and the Tower of London. The route includes a drive up Whitehall, offering views of Downing Street, and a drive through Trafalgar Square, where Nelson’s Column dominates the scene.

The guide provides lively commentary on each site, weaving in interesting facts and stories. The guide’s personality and knowledge are highly praised in reviews, with many travelers noting how engaging and informative the narration is. The open-top design in good weather allows for stellar photo opportunities.

The Thames River Cruise: See London from the Water

After exploring on land, the tour moves to the Thames River, where a guided boat cruise awaits. Departing from Tower Pier, the cruise lasts roughly 30 minutes, offering a different perspective of London’s skyline.

On the river, travelers see the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the Shard, along with St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. The views from the water highlight the historic and modern architecture that makes London unique. The cruise guides share insights about each landmark, adding depth to the sightseeing experience.

The river cruise also offers the chance to photograph London Eye from the water, making it a favorite among photographers. The boat is comfortable, with large windows and outdoor seating, though some reviews note that waiting for the boat can occasionally take longer than expected.

Visiting Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard

One of the highlights on the itinerary is a stop at Buckingham Palace, where visitors can observe the Changing of the Guard if scheduled that day. The guard change occurs on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays in the morning, adding a ceremonial flair to the visit.

Even if the guard change is not happening, there is still time for photos outside the Palace’s gates. The tour stops outside Buckingham Palace for about 30 minutes, giving ample opportunity for photographs and to admire the royal residence.

Seeing Westminster Abbey and the Prime Minister’s Residence

A quick photo stop outside Westminster Abbey allows travelers to capture images of this historic church. The 15-minute stop is primarily for photos, as the Abbey itself is not included in the ticket price. The tour also drives past Downing Street, where the Prime Minister’s official residence and offices are located, providing a glimpse of government life in London.

Driving through Trafalgar Square offers a chance to see Nelson’s Column and the bustling heart of the city. The route then continues past the Law Courts of England and Wales, a grand Victorian Gothic building opened by Queen Victoria in 1882.

Tower of London and Historic Landmark Photo Stop

The Tower of London is a major highlight, with a 30-minute stop for photos and quick sightseeing. This historic fortress has served as a royal palace, prison, and treasure vault, and remains a symbol of London’s history. Admission to the Tower is not included, but the photo opportunity is prime.

The guide shares stories about the tower’s history, making the visit more engaging. Travelers often enjoy viewing the Crown Jewels and exploring the medieval architecture from the outside.

Optional London Eye and Stonehenge Excursions

For added value, travelers can choose to upgrade to include a ride on the London Eye. After visiting Buckingham Palace, the tour ends with an easy transfer to the Eye, where a fast-track ticket allows quick access to the famous 360-degree capsules. The single rotation offers sweeping views of London’s skyline.

Alternatively, a Stonehenge visit can be added in the afternoon. This involves a round-trip shuttle from Victoria, with a self-guided audio tour of the UNESCO-listed site. This makes for a full day of sightseeing, extending the experience beyond central London.

Pacing, Group Size, and Practical Tips

The tour is designed to be well-paced, with enough time at each stop for photos and brief visits. The maximum group size of 40 travelers helps maintain a lively yet manageable atmosphere. Since it’s an open-top bus, travelers should prepare for possible rain and dress accordingly.

The tour does not include food or drinks, so packing water or snacks is advisable. Also, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so participants should plan to meet at the designated location.

Honest Feedback and Considerations

Reviews note that timing can sometimes be affected by traffic, which might cause delays or impact the schedule, especially for the river cruise. Some travelers also point out that waiting for the boat occasionally extends beyond expectations. Weather conditions can influence the open-top bus experience, particularly during rain.

While the guide’s commentary is generally praised, a few reviews mention that waiting times or disorganized moments can detract slightly from the overall experience. Nevertheless, most find the value for money excellent, especially when including the river cruise and optional London Eye.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of London’s key sights in a manageable timeframe. It’s also perfect for photographers looking for scenic shots from both the bus and the river. Families and groups of friends will appreciate the mix of land and water views, plus the nostalgic charm of the vintage Routemaster.

Those with moderate mobility will find the stops brief and manageable, but it’s worth noting that the open-top bus may be less comfortable in poor weather. The optional London Eye add-on is great for those wanting a bird’s-eye view of the city, especially on clear days.

Final Thoughts on the Vintage London Bus Tour

This 3 hour 30 minute sightseeing package offers a fun, practical way to absorb London’s most iconic sights. The vintage Routemaster adds a nostalgic touch, while the Thames River cruise provides a relaxed break with memorable views. The option to include the London Eye elevates the experience further, making it suitable for those who want variety.

While some minor issues like traffic delays and weather are unavoidable, the overall value and quality make this tour a popular choice. It suits travelers who appreciate informative guides, scenic routes, and a relaxed pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes the vintage bus ride, Thames River cruise, and guide services. The London Eye is an optional upgrade.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Victoria Coach Station in central London.

Can I visit Buckingham Palace during the tour?
Yes, the tour makes a 30-minute stop outside Buckingham Palace to see the Changing of the Guard if scheduled that day.

Is the Thames cruise included?
Yes, the 30-minute guided Thames River cruise is part of the standard tour.

Do I need to book the London Eye separately?
Yes, the London Eye is available as an add-on at booking, with a prebooked fast-track ticket.

What should I wear or bring?
Travelers should dress for the weather, especially since the bus is open-top in summer, and carry water or snacks if desired.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness; the open-top bus may be less suitable in bad weather or for those with mobility issues.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

This vintage London bus tour provides a comprehensive, charming way to explore London’s most famous sights, with the flexibility of water and panoramic views. It’s a solid choice for those value a mix of nostalgia, scenic beauty, and engaging commentary.