Experience the charm of London during the holiday season with the Snowman Afternoon Tea Bus Christmas Tour. This 1-hour festive journey combines sightseeing, delicious seasonal treats, and live holiday music, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a cozy, cheerful holiday activity. The tour departs from London Eye or Aldwych, with options to start before or after a West End show, and features a specially curated Snowman-inspired afternoon tea including scones, sandwiches, cupcakes, and Snowball truffles.

We like how this experience captures the essence of Christmas with iconic sights and heartwarming music. While the route may vary depending on traffic or road closures, the inclusion of London’s famous landmarks and Christmas lights displays ensures a festive backdrop. The tour offers additional options like Prosecco, mulled wine, or a Snowball cocktail, perfect for adding extra cheer. For those looking for a seasonal outing with a blend of sightseeing, food, and holiday spirit, this tour delivers a memorable experience.

Key Points

Festive 1-hour tour through central London with holiday sights and Christmas lights
Afternoon tea inspired by The Snowman featuring scones, sandwiches, cupcakes, and truffles
Multiple departure points from London Eye or Aldwych, with options to align with West End shows
Music from The Snowman and classic Christmas carols enhance the holiday atmosphere
Optional extras include Prosecco, mulled wine, or Snowball cocktails
Suitable for children aged 15 and under with an accompanying adult, but no entry for under 5s

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Festive Journey from London Eye or Aldwych

The tour begins from either the London Eye or Aldwych, offering flexibility for visitors staying in different parts of central London. The route takes about an hour, allowing ample time to see the city’s most renowned landmarks in a lively holiday setting. The departure times are scheduled around showtimes at the West End, making it easy to combine with theatre visits.

The viewpoints include Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, and Piccadilly Circus, with the evening tour offering an extra chance to see Oxford Street’s sparkling lights and Regent Street’s angels. The tour’s route may change due to traffic or road closures, but the focus remains on showcasing London’s iconic holiday illuminations.

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What the Afternoon Tea Menu Includes

During the ride, guests enjoy a Snowman-inspired afternoon tea featuring delicate finger sandwiches and warm scones with jam and cream. The menu also includes festive cupcakes and Snowball truffles, all crafted to evoke the Christmas spirit. The beverages range from hot chocolate, tea, or coffee, with the option to upgrade to a deluxe hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and marshmallows.

The food options cater to different dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free choices. Guests are advised to notify reservations at least 24 hours in advance for special dietary requirements, though no food allergens are guaranteed to be nut-free. The menu’s focus on seasonal treats adds to the cozy, festive mood of the experience.

The Musical Atmosphere and Holiday Songs

Music plays a central role in this tour, with a soundtrack of The Snowman’s iconic score and classic Christmas carols filling the bus. This creates a warm, nostalgic atmosphere that complements the visual spectacle of London’s lights. The music enhances the holiday mood, making the experience more immersive and joyful.

The live musical backdrop ensures that the tour feels lively and engaging, especially during the evening when the lights are at their most dazzling. Guests often find the soundtrack and visuals work together beautifully to evoke the Christmas spirit.

Sightseeing Highlights on the Route

While the exact route may vary, the tour typically features viewings of London’s most famous landmarks. These include Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, and Piccadilly Circus, with their festive lighting and decorations. During the evening departure, sights like Oxford Street’s twinkling stars and Regent Street’s angels are highlights.

Guests enjoy beautiful views of Christmas lights that adorn the city, which are especially impressive at night. The short duration means the focus is on the most iconic sights, making this an ideal activity for those wanting a quick but festive sightseeing experience.

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Practical Details and Meeting Points

The meeting points are at coordinates 51.51254, -0.11898, either near the London Eye or Aldwych. The tour requires guests to arrive at least 15 minutes early. While the bus has no toilets onboard, the group size is manageable, and guests may share tables during the meal.

The route can change based on traffic, so flexibility is necessary. The tour is conducted in English, and wheelchair users can sit on the lower deck if they occupy a fixed seat. Children 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult, and children under 5 are not allowed on this experience.

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Food and Drink Options and Dietary Accommodations

Guests can pair their treats with hot chocolate, tea, or coffee, with the option to upgrade to a deluxe hot chocolate with whipped cream and marshmallows. The menu includes non-vegetarian, vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free options to cater to different tastes and dietary needs.

For special dietary requirements, reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance by contacting the provider. The menu may change slightly depending on availability, and nut allergies cannot be guaranteed to be avoided.

Extras to Enhance the Holiday Experience

Pre-purchasing extras can elevate the experience, with options like Prosecco, mulled wine, or a festive Snowball cocktail. These beverages add a cheerful touch to the tour, especially during the evening when the city lights are at their best.

Guests looking to add a special touch to their festive outing should consider these upgrades for a more celebratory atmosphere.

The Overall Experience and Value

The 4.5 out of 5 reviews reflect high satisfaction, especially praising knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and delicious food. Some critiques mention short routes or window cleanliness issues, but overall, the tour is seen as a worthwhile festive activity.

The tour’s combination of sights, music, and seasonal treats makes it a charming way to experience London’s holiday lights. The cost includes the afternoon tea, sights, and music, with optional extras available. For those wanting a quick but festive London experience, this affordable tour offers a warm, joyful holiday adventure.

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London: The Snowman Afternoon Tea Bus Christmas Tour

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the Snowman Afternoon Tea Bus Christmas Tour?
The tour lasts 1 hour.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from London Eye or Aldwych, with meeting points at coordinates 51.51254, -0.11898.

Can I join if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes, the menu includes vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free options. You should notify reservations at least 24 hours in advance for special requirements.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children 15 and under need to be accompanied by a paying adult. Children under 5 are not permitted.

Is there any entertainment during the tour?
Yes, the music from The Snowman and classic Christmas carols are played throughout, creating a festive atmosphere.

Can I upgrade my drinks?
Yes, you can pre-purchase upgrades such as Prosecco, mulled wine, or Snowball cocktails.

Are there any accessibility features?
Wheelchair users can sit on the lower deck if they occupy a fixed seat.

What landmarks will I see?
You can expect to view Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, and during evening departures, Oxford Street’s lights and Regent Street’s angels.

Is the route fixed?
No, the route may change depending on traffic conditions or road closures.

What makes this tour unique?
It combines the magic of The Snowman, iconic London sights, and a festive afternoon tea, all within a short, cheerful tour perfect for the holiday season.