London: “Here We Go Again” Afternoon Tea Bus

London: “Here We Go Again” Afternoon Tea Bus – A Quirky Twist on London Sightseeing

The “Here We Go Again” Afternoon Tea Bus offers a fun and flavorful way to see London. For about 1.5 hours, this tour combines iconic sights, delicious food, and ABBA sing-alongs onboard a cheerful pink bus. It departs from Golden Tours Stop 1, where you’ll find a distinctive pink striped bus with a large “The English Tea Bus” sign. This experience is ideal for ABBA fans, food lovers, and those seeking a lighter, music-filled way to explore the city’s highlights.

With a rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 22 reviews, this tour offers great value and friendly service, although it does have some considerations, such as no onboard toilets and limited dietary options if special requests aren’t made in advance. The tour ends back at the start point, making logistics simple.

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Key Points

• Duration: 1.5 hours of sightseeing with afternoon tea included
• Departure point: Golden Tours Stop 1 with a pink striped bus
• Main attractions: Views of Big Ben, London Eye, Shard, Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace
• Food: Traditional finger sandwiches, sweet treats, cupcakes, fresh scones, and a glass of prosecco or soft drink
• Music: Sing along to ABBA’s top hits with colored sunglasses provided
• Accessibility: Lower deck seats for wheelchair users, but no toilets onboard

Starting at the Pink Bus with a Unique Sign

The tour kicks off at the Golden Tours Stop 1, easily identifiable by the pink striped bus and a large “The English Tea Bus” sign. This eye-catching vehicle sets the tone for a lighthearted and colorful experience. The driver leads the journey through central London, with the route subject to traffic and road closures.

Guests should arrive ready for a 1.5-hour ride filled with sights and sounds, and are encouraged to bring a camera and water for the journey. Since the bus does not have onboard toilets, plan accordingly before boarding.

A Waterfront and Landmark View from the Thames

One of the tour’s highlights is the view of London’s landmarks from the water. The boat cruise component offers magnificent views of Big Ben, the London Eye, the Shard, and the Tower of London. These sights are visible as the bus moves past riverside areas, providing a unique perspective that can’t be matched by land-only tours.

This water experience adds a relaxing element and a different angle on London’s famous skyline, making the tour suitable for photo enthusiasts and those wanting an easy way to see multiple landmarks in one go.

The Route Through London’s Key Neighborhoods

The bus route takes you through hotspots like Waterloo, Westminster, and London Bridge. Along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of Buckingham Palace and various monuments, offering a comprehensive yet relaxed overview of the city’s most recognizable sites.

Since the route may change due to traffic, the tour emphasizes flexibility but guarantees you’ll see many of London’s highlights. It’s a good idea to stay alert and look out for landmarks that might be just outside the window.

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The Afternoon Tea Experience and Food Quality

The afternoon tea is a standout feature. The menu includes traditional finger sandwiches, sweet treats, cupcakes, and freshly made scones. Guests can enjoy a glass of prosecco or a soft drink, enhancing the British tradition with a modern twist.

Guests have praised the quality of the food, describing it as delicious and ample. The friendly staff serve the food with attention and often provide a special shout-out for occasions like birthdays. The reusable cups are a small but appreciated souvenir.

Sing-Alongs and ABBA’s Top Hits

A major element of the tour is the music, centered around ABBA’s top hits. Guests are encouraged to sing along and wear colored sunglasses provided for the full experience. The guides lead the music sessions, creating a fun, lively atmosphere.

While most reviews mention enjoyment of the ABBA tunes, some note that not all songs are familiar. Still, the cheerful sing-along adds a nostalgic and entertaining touch to the sightseeing.

Accessibility and Guest Considerations

Lower deck seating is available for wheelchair users, but they must sit in fixed seats. The tour does not have onboard toilets, so guests should plan accordingly.

Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult, and children under 5 are not allowed. Since alcohol is served only to those 18+, a valid ID is required for the prosecco. The menu can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free options if notified at least 72 hours in advance.

The Experience for Different Types of Travelers

This experience is not suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems. The route’s subject to change means it’s less ideal for those seeking a fixed itinerary.

The 1.5-hour duration makes it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing, especially for music lovers or those seeking a relaxed, social experience. The no on-board toilets and limited dietary accommodations should be considered when planning.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The pink bus with its ABBA-themed sing-alongs offers a distinctive approach to London sightseeing. Combining water views, interactive music, and afternoon tea creates a light-hearted, memorable experience.

The friendly staff and good reviews suggest it’s a well-organized, enjoyable outing. The inclusion of a souvenir cup and the fun of singing along with ABBA’s hits are not common on typical sightseeing tours, making this a quirky choice for those looking for something a bit different.

Limitations and Practical Tips

While the tour boasts positive reviews, some guests find the music selection could be more balanced with more popular ABBA songs. The heat on the bus can be uncomfortable during warmer days, so dressing appropriately and bringing water is wise.

Since no toilets are available on board, guests should use facilities beforehand. The route may vary, so patience and flexibility are helpful. The dining options are standard and need prior notice for dietary restrictions, so plan ahead if needed.

Who Will Enjoy the London ABBA Tea Bus?

This tour shines for ABBA fans and music lovers who enjoy singing along. It also appeals to those seeking a casual, social way to see London’s landmarks from a different perspective.

It works well for groups, families with children over 5, and those wanting a fun daytime activity. However, it’s less suitable for people with mobility issues beyond lower deck seating, or guests needing restroom facilities.

Final Thoughts on the “Here We Go Again” Afternoon Tea Bus

The blend of sightseeing, food, and music makes this tour a cheerful and light-hearted option for exploring London. The friendly staff and delicious food contribute to a positive experience, while the ABBA sing-alongs bring a touch of nostalgia and fun.

While it isn’t a comprehensive or luxurious tour, it offers a unique twist on the city’s attractions. Perfect for fans of ABBA, those who enjoy social dining, and anyone wanting to see London in a relaxed, musical atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a specific dress code for this tour?
No, there is no required dress code. However, since it can get warm onboard, casual and comfortable clothing is recommended, especially during warmer weather.

Can I bring dietary restrictions or allergies?
Yes, the menu features options for vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free diets. It’s best to inform at least 72 hours in advance to ensure your preferences are accommodated, as on-the-day requests cannot be guaranteed.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult. Under 5s are not permitted due to safety and space considerations.

Is the route fixed or subject to change?
The route may change due to road closures and traffic conditions, but the tour guarantees views of major landmarks from both land and water.

What should I bring for the tour?
Guests should bring a camera to capture the sights and water to stay hydrated during the journey. There are no toilets onboard, so plan accordingly.

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