A holiday trip to London becomes extra special with the London Christmas Lights Tour by Vintage Bus Open Top. Priced at a competitive rate with a 75-minute duration, this sightseeing experience takes place aboard a classic 1960s Routemaster bus, all decked out with festive decorations. Departing from outside the Grand Hotel at 8 Northumberland Avenue, the tour guarantees top deck seats for unobstructed views of the city’s Christmas sparkle.

This tour is perfect for those who want to see London’s holiday lights from a unique vantage point, avoiding crowded footpaths while soaking up the festive atmosphere. While the tour lasts up to 75 minutes, some reviews mention it being slightly shorter or longer, depending on traffic and route adjustments. The guides deliver an amusing commentary packed with stories and humor, making the ride as entertaining as it is scenic. Keep in mind, bad weather can impact the experience, so dressing warmly is advised.

Key Points

Vintage open-top bus offers an authentic, festive way to see London’s Christmas lights.
Top deck seats are guaranteed, ensuring great visibility of landmarks and decorations.
The tour covers iconic locations such as Oxford Street, Harrods window displays, and the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.
An informative and humorous guide enhances the experience, making it fun for all ages.
Duration is approximately 75 minutes, with times subject to traffic and road conditions.
Tickets are flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay later option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Set out on a Festive Journey on a Vintage Routemaster Bus

The London Christmas Lights Tour transports visitors on a classic Routemaster bus from the 1960s, turned into a festive spectacle. This open-top vehicle allows travelers to feel the cold air and see the lights from above, adding to the holiday cheer. The bus is decorated with seasonal ornaments, creating a cheerful atmosphere from the moment you step aboard.

Starting outside the Grand Hotel, the tour moves through Greater London, covering a specially-designed route that highlights the city’s best Christmas illuminations. The small group setting and top deck seats mean everyone gets a great view, and the live commentary keeps the atmosphere lively with jokes, stories, and holiday tidbits.

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The Route: From Oxford Street to Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland

The tour’s route includes Oxford Street, famous for its stunning light displays and elaborate window decorations. Travelers get a chance to look up at the dazzling displays without the hassle of crowds. The bus then passes by the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, a highlight for many who love festive markets and funfair rides.

The guide narrates the history and fun facts about each location, making the sightseeing both educational and entertaining. Due to traffic and road closures, it may not be possible to see every landmark, but the tour aims to maximize the festive sights within the available time.

Guides and Commentary: Humor and Knowledge Combine

The guides lead the tour with big personalities and a knack for storytelling. They deliver funny commentary that brings London’s Christmas spirit alive, often cracking jokes and sharing humorous anecdotes. This approach keeps the atmosphere upbeat, especially during the chilly evening hours.

Guests often praise the guides for their informative and entertaining style, enhancing the overall experience. They also appreciate the music played onboard, which adds to the holiday vibe and makes the ride more lively.

Navigating London Traffic and Road Closures

A key aspect of this tour is that London traffic and road closures can influence the route and timing. The tour’s operators do their best to warn passengers if certain landmarks cannot be seen, but some flexibility is required.

Despite traffic delays, many reviews mention that the tour still manages to cover numerous areas of the city and offers an enjoyable ride. The 75-minute duration ensures a relaxed pace, allowing for plenty of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

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Practical Tips: Dress Warmly and Arrive Early

Because the top deck is open-air, warm clothing and blankets are recommended, especially during colder evenings. Some reviewers suggest arriving early to secure the best seats, as the first-come, first-served seating system applies.

Travelers should also be prepared for weather variations, such as rain or wind, which might affect comfort. The meeting point is outside the Grand Hotel, making it easy to find, and the tour ends back at the same spot.

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Value and Booking Flexibility

The ticket price covers a 75-minute sightseeing experience, transportation aboard a vintage open-top bus, and the guaranteed top deck seat. Food and drinks are not included, so visitors can bring a hot drink or snack if they wish.

Booking is flexible with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The pay later feature allows for planning without immediate financial commitment, making this tour accessible and low-pressure.

How This Tour Compares to Similar Experiences

This tour is one of several options for experiencing London’s holiday lights. It stands out for its vintage bus charm and up-close views from the open top. The guided commentary adds educational value and humor, while other similar tours may not include a top deck guarantee or focus on festive decorations.

While some reviews mention the shorter duration or traffic-related route changes, most guests find it a cost-effective and joyful way to see London’s Christmas displays, especially during peak visiting times.

Overall Experience: A Warm and Festive Ride

The London Christmas Lights Tour by Vintage Bus offers a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season. With a friendly and funny guide, great views from the top deck, and a route that showcases Oxford Street, Harrods, and Hyde Park, the tour captures the essence of London’s festive spirit.

It’s especially suited for visitors who enjoy classic vehicles, outdoor sightseeing, and a lively atmosphere. While weather can be a factor, dressing warmly and arriving early helps maximize enjoyment. This tour provides a fun, accessible, and festive experience that complements any holiday trip to London.

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London Christmas Lights Tour by Vintage Bus Open Top

3.9

(944)

“Excellent- perfect timing for the traffic and lights all being on. Was very nippy though remember to rug up warm.”

— Carolyn, December 20, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the London Christmas Lights Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes, but some reviews mention it being slightly shorter or longer depending on traffic.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside the Grand Hotel at 8 Northumberland Avenue and ends back at the same location.

Is seating on the top deck guaranteed?
Yes, top deck seats are guaranteed for all participants, ensuring excellent views.

What should I wear?
Wearing warm clothing and bringing blankets is recommended, especially during cold or rainy weather.

Can I cancel my ticket?
Yes, tickets are cancellable up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the ticket price.

Is this suitable for children?
While not specifically mentioned, the lively guides and festive atmosphere make it generally suitable for families, though children should be prepared for outdoor, cold conditions.

What landmarks will I see?
You will see Oxford Street, Harrods window displays, and pass by Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, among other festive sights.

Is this tour good in bad weather?
The experience depends on weather conditions, as bad weather can affect visibility and comfort. Dress warmly and be prepared for rain or cold.

How can I improve my experience?
Arriving early to select the best seats, dressing warmly, and bringing a hot drink or small snack can enhance the experience.