TopView® 24 Hr Hop on Hop off Bus Tour with River Cruise & Walks

Explore London at Your Own Pace with the TopView® 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

The TopView® 24 Hr Hop on Hop off Bus Tour with River Cruise & Walks provides a flexible way to see London’s most famous sights. For $50.83 per person, this all-in-one package allows you to hop on and off unlimited times over a full day, combining city bus transport, a scenic Thames River cruise, and up to three guided walking tours. This tour is ideal for visitors who want the freedom to customize their sightseeing experience without feeling rushed.

The tour departs from Marble Arch and covers a comprehensive route passing landmarks like Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace. While the bus service offers practical convenience, some reviews highlight issues with timing and station clarity, so preparation is key. The inclusion of a river cruise and walking tours adds unique angles for exploring London’s waterfront and its vibrant neighborhoods.

Key Points

• Flexible 24-hour access to all bus stops with unlimited hop-on hop-off
• Includes a Thames River Cruise from Tower Millennium Pier or Westminster Millennium Pier
• Up to three guided walking tours of Royal Parks, West End, or other highlights
• Stops at all major attractions such as Big Ben, London Eye, Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace
• Cost of $50.83 per person, with tickets valid for 12 months
• Service hours from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, with some customer service issues reported

Starting Point at Marble Arch and the Landmarks Tour Route

The tour begins at Marble Arch, located near Park Lane and Speakers’ Corner. From there, the Landmarks Tour takes you along a route passing Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, and Craig’s Court, giving an overview of London’s historic and cultural heart. These stops are well-positioned for sightseeing and photo opportunities, although some reviews note that the initial pick-up times can vary, with buses sometimes running late.

This route ensures you see famous sights like Big Ben, Westminster Pier, and the London Eye, with easy hop-on, hop-off flexibility. The stops at York Road, Aldwych, and St. Paul’s Cathedral provide a thorough overview of central London. The route also covers lesser-known areas like Tooley Street and Vine Lane, adding depth to your exploration.

Thames River Cruise: Scenic Views Along the Water

Included in this package is a one-way Thames River cruise from either Tower Millennium Pier or Westminster Millennium Pier. This cruise offers waterfront views of London’s skyline, including sights like the Tower of London, Houses of Parliament, and London Eye.

The cruise provides a relaxing change of pace from the busy bus route, giving passengers a chance to enjoy scenic vistas and learn about London’s river history. It’s a popular feature of this tour, although some reviews suggest that the timing of the cruise and bus departures may not always perfectly align, so planning ahead is recommended.

Participating in Up to Three Guided Walking Tours

One of the key features of this tour is the opportunity to join up to three walking tours, each focusing on different areas of London. These walks are intended to offer a more personalized experience of landmarks like Royal Parks or the West End district.

While the specific guides or tour content are not detailed, the walking component aims to supplement the bus and cruise with intimate explorations of London’s neighborhoods. This makes the experience particularly appealing for those interested in a more in-depth look at select areas.

Stops and Itinerary Details

The route includes 25 stops covering major attractions and neighborhoods. Starting at Marble Arch, the tour travels through iconic locations like Piccadilly Circus, where the vibrant screens and historic theaters capture London’s energy. The stops at Trafalgar Square and Big Ben are central points for sightseeing and photo opportunities.

The route then moves toward Westminster Pier, passing Horse Guards, and continues through Temple and Lambeth Palace. Stops near Buckingham Palace and Queen Elizabeth Gate allow visitors to witness the seat of the British monarchy. The route then loops back via Park Lane, Harrods, and notable museums like the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Some stops, such as Baker Street or Praed Street, offer access to London’s iconic neighborhoods and shopping districts. The final stops include York Road and a night tour segment at Haymarket, providing options for evening sightseeing.

Practicalities: Meeting Points, Timing, and Accessibility

The tour operates daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, making it suitable for most daytime schedules. You can buy tickets now and use them within 12 months, giving flexibility if your plans change.

The meeting points are conveniently located near public transportation, simplifying access. The tour is designed to accommodate most travelers, with service animals allowed and accessible options likely available, though specific details are not provided.

Some reviews mention issues with timing—such as buses arriving late or not at all—highlighting the importance of early arrival and patience. The tour’s frequent buses help mitigate some of these issues, but travelers should be prepared for potential delays.

Value for Money and What’s Not Included

At $50.83 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive way to see London without the need to book separate tickets for each attraction. The unlimited hop-on hop-off access and inclusion of a river cruise and walking tours make it a cost-effective option for flexible sightseeing.

However, attraction entrance fees are not included, so visits to specific sites like Tower of London or St. Paul’s Cathedral require separate tickets. The overall experience is best suited for those who want an overview rather than in-depth visits to individual attractions.

Customer Feedback: Strengths and Challenges

The overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 reflects mixed experiences. Positive comments highlight the comfortable buses, useful audio guides, and scenic river cruise. The helpful staff at stops and the opportunity to explore at your own pace are appreciated features.

On the downside, some reviews report confusion about station locations, delays in bus arrivals, and poor communication from the booking agency. These issues suggest that travelers should plan for potential waiting times and verify stop locations before starting their day.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This 24-hour sightseeing package is best for visitors who want flexibility and variety. It suits those eager to see London from multiple perspectives—bus, water, and foot—while controlling their own schedule.

However, travelers who prioritize reliable timing or prefer guided tours with detailed commentary might find this experience less satisfying due to some reported operational issues. It’s a good option for independent explorers comfortable with some unpredictability and who value the convenience of an all-in-one ticket.

Final Thoughts on the TopView® 24 Hr Hop on Hop off Tour

The combination of bus, river cruise, and walking tours provides a versatile way to explore London at your own pace. The pricing is reasonable considering the multi-modal experience, and the stops cover most major attractions.

While some logistical hiccups have been noted, the overall package offers good value for those who are flexible and patient. This tour works well for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a broad overview of the city with options to customize their day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include entrance fees to attractions?
No, entrance fees for attractions are not included. The tour provides transportation and some guided walks, but ticketed entry to sites like the Tower of London is separate.

Can I buy tickets now and use them later?
Yes, you can purchase tickets now and use them within 12 months, providing flexibility to plan your trip.

What are the operating hours of the tour?
The tour runs every day from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with stops throughout the day to suit different schedules.

Is the river cruise a round trip?
No, the river cruise is one-way, from a designated pier (Tower Millennium or Westminster Millennium) to enjoy scenic views along the Thames.

Are walking tours included in the price?
Yes, you can join up to three walking tours from the available options, adding an intimate experience of London’s neighborhoods.

What should I be aware of regarding delays or timing?
Some reviews mention bus delays and timing issues, so arriving early and being flexible can help maximize your experience.