Edinburgh: Vintage Bus Tour with Afternoon Tea or Gin

A vintage bus tour of Edinburgh offers a charming and relaxing way to see the Scottish capital while enjoying a traditional afternoon tea or an upgrade to flavored gin cocktails served in teapots. Priced at $57 per person, this 1.5-hour guided experience combines sightseeing, culinary treats, and a nostalgic ride aboard a vintage Routemaster bus. The tour departs from St. Andrew Square and is perfect for those seeking a leisurely exploration of Edinburgh’s highlights with a tasty twist.

While the tour is not wheelchair accessible and lacks an onboard toilet, it makes up for these limitations with friendly staff, excellent food, and a lively atmosphere. It appeals especially to travelers who appreciate a sophisticated, yet fun, way to discover Edinburgh’s sights while indulging in British classics.

Key Points

• Price: $57 per person for 1.5 hours of sightseeing with afternoon tea or gin upgrade
• Includes: Glass of prosecco, unlimited tea and coffee, afternoon tea, and optional gin cocktails in teapots
• Departure Point: St. Andrew Square in Edinburgh’s city center
• Tour Highlights: Views of Edinburgh Castle, the Scottish Parliament Building, and other iconic sites
• Experience Type: Vintage Routemaster bus with a guided commentary in English
• Not Suitable for wheelchair users or those needing on-board restrooms

You can check availability for your dates here:

Explore Edinburgh’s Historic Sites from a Vintage Bus

This tour takes you past some of Edinburgh’s most famous landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Parliament Building. The vintage Routemaster bus, with its nostalgic charm, offers a cozy and unique setting for your sightseeing. Throughout the ride, a live English-speaking guide shares interesting tidbits about the city’s history and culture, making the experience both entertaining and informative.

The bus moves at a leisurely pace, allowing plenty of opportunity to admire the scenery, which includes historic architecture, charming streets, and panoramic views. This setting creates a relaxed atmosphere perfect for those who prefer a leisurely exploration over a fast-paced walking tour.

Indulge in a Traditional British Afternoon Tea

The core of this experience is a delicious afternoon tea served onboard. Expect sandwiches, petit fours, cupcakes, and warm scones with clotted cream and jam, all presented on elegant trays. The food is carefully prepared, and reviews praise both the presentation and taste, emphasizing the high quality of the treats.

Guests can enjoy unlimited tea and coffee, enhancing the sense of indulgence. The food and service are consistently highlighted as excellent, making the meal a true highlight of the tour. The seating is comfortable enough for one person per spot, but sharing a table during busy times may require some sitting close together.

Upgrade to Gin Cocktails in Teapots for a Playful Twist

For those seeking a bit more flair, the tour offers an upgrade option to include flavored gin cocktails served in teapots. These cocktails are supplied by Edinburgh Gin Company and feature aromatic herbs and edible flowers, adding a touch of elegance and fun to the experience.

The gin “pot-tails” are a popular addition, with reviews noting their delicious flavor and beautiful presentation. They pair well with the afternoon tea, creating a quirky and memorable drinking experience. This upgrade is especially appealing if you enjoy a good cocktail or want to add a playful element to your sightseeing.

From the Old Town to the Royal Mile: The Tour Route

While specific stops are not detailed, the tour covers key areas of Edinburgh’s Old Town, highlighting landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Parliament. The bus meanders through historic streets, offering views of notable buildings and picturesque neighborhoods.

Several reviews mention the beautiful city views and appreciate the relaxed pace of the ride, making it an ideal way to see Edinburgh without the fatigue of walking. The tour includes 15-minute stops for comfort, but most of the experience remains onboard.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Tour Logistics

The tour begins at St. Andrew Square, a central and easily accessible location in Edinburgh. It lasts 1.5 hours and runs with multiple start times, so checking availability is recommended. The experience is led by a live English-speaking guide who shares stories and facts as you go.

Guests are welcomed with a glass of prosecco upon boarding, adding to the high-end feel. While the tour does not have wheelchair access or onboard toilets, a scheduled 15-minute stop provides a chance for a quick break. Reservations can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for planning.

Food, Drinks, and Special Dietary Requests

The afternoon tea features a selection of sandwiches, petits fours, cupcakes, and warm scones. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available with at least 5 days’ notice. The quality of the food receives high praise, with many reviews describing it as delicious and beautifully presented.

Guests can enjoy unlimited tea and coffee, and those who upgrade to the gin option receive flavored gin cocktails, served in teapots with herbs and edible flowers. Additional drinks can be purchased onboard for a fee if desired.

The Atmosphere and Overall Experience

The atmosphere onboard is lively and fun, with many reviews mentioning the friendly staff and great music. The bumpy ride over cobblestone streets is part of the charm but may require caution when holding drinks.

The guide’s commentary is described as engaging, with some reviews noting the informative stories about Edinburgh’s history. The decor and presentation of the afternoon tea and cocktails add a unique, vintage charm to the experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed sightseeing style combined with food and drink. It’s perfect for special occasions like hen dos or celebrations and for anyone wanting to experience Edinburgh in a quirky, memorable way.

The upgraded gin cocktails add a playful element, while the delicious food and friendly service make it a satisfying choice for food lovers. Travelers seeking accessible options should note the lack of wheelchair access, but for most, the charming atmosphere and scenic views compensate.

Edinburgh Vintage Bus Tour with Afternoon Tea or Gin: Final Thoughts

This 1.5-hour vintage bus tour delivers a fun and comfortable way to enjoy Edinburgh’s sights with a British-style afternoon tea or an upgraded gin cocktail. The friendly guides, delicious food, and quaint vintage vehicles combine to create a distinctive experience that stands apart from typical city tours.

While it’s not suited to those with mobility issues or requiring on-board toilets, it offers a relaxing pace, beautiful views, and a delicious culinary experience. The consistent positive reviews highlight excellent food, professional staff, and a lively, engaging atmosphere.

This tour suits food and drink enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone looking for a lighthearted, memorable way to explore Edinburgh’s historic streets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at St. Andrew Square in the center of Edinburgh.

What’s included in the price?
Guests receive a glass of prosecco, afternoon tea, unlimited tea and coffee, and an optional gin cocktail if upgraded.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are dietary options available?
Yes, vegetarian and gluten-free options can be requested with at least 5 days’ notice.

Is there a bathroom onboard?
No, there is no toilet onboard, but the tour stops for a 15-minute comfort break.

What if I want extra drinks?
Additional drinks can be purchased for a charge during the tour.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is operated by Red Bus Bistro Company Limited.

Would this tour be good for a celebration?
Absolutely, reviews mention it being perfect for hen dos and special occasions due to its lively atmosphere and unique setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby