About this activity
Editor's Note
Look, we’ve all seen the "classic" London bus tours where you’re packed like sardines into a drafty double-decker while a tinny recording blasts dates you'll forget in five minutes. It’s high-occupancy, low-soul tourism at its peak. But honestly, if you're going to deal with the lead times and the traffic of Central London, you might as well have a chilled glass of Prosecco in your hand and a scone that actually tastes like it saw an oven today. This tour is a bit of a middle finger to the boring "hop-on-hop-off" grind. It’s essentially a rolling cafe that manages to turn a logistical nightmare—driving through Westminster—into something actually refined. Is it a bit posh? Maybe. Is it better than walking until your feet bleed? Absolutely.
About the Tour
Why settle for a cramped hotel lobby when you can see the city’s skyline through the windows of a vintage 1960s Routemaster? This experience takes the quintessental British tradition and puts it on wheels, proving that you can, in fact, multitask your sightseeing with a side of clotted cream.
The Route and the Views
Over the course of a 90-minute journey, you’ll cruise through the heart of the city. While you’re busy deciding whether the jam or the cream goes first (the eternal debate), you’ll pass some of London's most iconic landmarks:
- The London Eye: Catch a glimpse of the giant wheel from a much more comfortable seat.
- The Tower of London: History is much easier to digest when paired with a finger sandwich.
- St. Paul’s Cathedral: Admire Wren’s masterpiece without the workout of climbing the steps.
- Westminster Abbey & Big Ben: The perfect backdrop for a mid-tour toast.
This isn't just about the food, though—it’s about the vibe. The bus is decorated to feel like a boutique tea room, making it one of the few tours where the interior is just as photo-worthy as the exterior. Whether you're a local looking for a quirky afternoon or a first-timer wanting to see the "Big Three" sights without the sweat, this is how you do London right. Just make sure you book in advance; this one fills up fast because, lets face it, everyone loves a boozy bus ride.
Highlights
- See the best of London with a cup of afternoon tea
- Enjoy a picturesque journey on a double-decker bus
- Admire the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral
- Enjoy mouth-watering sweet and savory treats
- Treat yourself to a glass of Prosecco or a soft drink
Know before you go
- Guests may need to share tables
- Confirm your menu choice (general or vegetarian) with the provider at least 24 hours before travel, or the general menu will be served
- Foods may contain or have come into contact with nuts; no special requests can be accommodated
- No tour guide is provided, though staff will highlight landmarks and points of interest
- Children 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult; under 5s are not permitted
- Routes may change due to traffic or road closures
- Menu items may change depending on availability
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure
- No toilets are available onboard
- Alcohol is served only to guests 18+ with valid ID
- Golden Tours cannot guarantee food is free from nuts or other allergens
- For a festive tea bus option, see The Snowman Afternoon Tea Bus Tour: https://www.getyourguide.com/london-l57/the-snowman-afternoon-tea-bus-tour-t1106330/