The Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace offers an immersive experience of London’s royal heritage. This hop-on hop-off tour covers key attractions along the Blue Route, including the iconic Kensington Palace. With frequent departures, multilingual audio commentary, and strategic stops, it provides a convenient way to explore the palace and surrounding areas. The tour combines historical insights with modern comfort, making it an ideal choice for tourists seeking a royal London adventure.
What Does the Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace Route Cover?
The Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace primarily operates on the Blue Route, which spans from Kensington Palace in the west to the Tower of London in the east. This route encompasses several key London attractions:
- Kensington Palace
- Kensington Gardens
- Hyde Park
- South Kensington museums (Natural History Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, Science Museum)
- Harrods
- Notting Hill
The entire Blue Route takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete, offering a comprehensive view of central London’s western section.
How Much Does the Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace Cost?
The pricing for the Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace is as follows:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | £39.00 |
| Child | £29.00 |
| Under 5 | Free |
It’s important to note that children under 5 years old can ride for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Additionally, various package deals are available:
- 48-hour hop-on hop-off ticket (more cost-effective for extended stays)
- Combo tickets including river cruises or other attractions
These package deals can offer significant savings, especially for families or groups planning to explore multiple London attractions.
What is the Schedule for the Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace?
The Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace operates on the following schedule:
- Operating Hours: Daily from 8 am to 6 pm
- Frequency: Buses depart every 10 to 20 minutes
- First Departure: Typically around 8:30 am
- Last Departure: Between 5:00-6:00 pm (may vary seasonally)
It’s advisable to check the latest timetable before your visit, as seasonal variations or special events might affect the schedule.
What Are the Highlights of Kensington Palace on the Big Bus Tour?
The Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace offers several highlights:
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Exterior View: The tour provides an excellent view of Kensington Palace’s exterior, showcasing its architectural beauty and historical significance.
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Audio Commentary: Multilingual audio commentary offers insights into:
- The palace’s history
- Its current royal residents (including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge)
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Interesting facts and anecdotes about the palace and surrounding area
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Nearby Attractions: The tour also highlights nearby attractions such as:
- Kensington Gardens
- Hyde Park
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The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain
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Hop-Off Option: While the tour doesn’t include entry to the palace, passengers can hop off at the Kensington Palace stop to explore further. This allows for:
- Visiting the palace interior (separate ticket required)
- Exploring the palace gardens
- Attending any special exhibitions or events happening at the palace
How Can I Make the Most of My Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace Experience?
To maximize your Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace experience:
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Plan Ahead: Research the route and decide which stops you want to explore in depth.
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Start Early: Begin your tour in the morning to have ample time for hop-offs and exploration.
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Use the Audio Guide: Take advantage of the multilingual audio commentary for in-depth information about Kensington Palace and other attractions.
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Combine with Palace Visit: Consider purchasing a separate ticket to visit Kensington Palace interior after your bus tour.
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Check for Special Events: Look for any special exhibitions or events at Kensington Palace that coincide with your visit.
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Explore Surrounding Areas: Take time to wander through Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park after your palace visit.
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Utilize Hop-On Hop-Off Feature: Don’t hesitate to hop off at interesting stops and rejoin the tour later.
What Should I Know About Accessibility on the Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace?
The Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace strives to be accessible to all visitors:
- Wheelchair accessible buses are available on all routes
- Audio commentary is available in multiple languages
- Visual aids and maps are provided for easier navigation
- Staff are trained to assist passengers with special needs
However, it’s recommended to contact Big Bus Tours in advance if you have specific accessibility requirements to ensure the best possible experience.
Is the Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace Suitable for Families?
Yes, the Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace is an excellent option for families:
- Children under 5 ride for free
- The open-top buses provide an exciting vantage point for kids
- Audio commentary is available in child-friendly versions
- The hop-on hop-off format allows for flexibility with younger travelers
- Nearby attractions like Hyde Park and the Diana Memorial Playground are great for family breaks
What Are the Best Times to Take the Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace?
The best times to take the Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace depend on your preferences:
- Early Morning: Less crowded, cooler temperatures (especially in summer)
- Midday: Ideal lighting for photography, busier atmosphere
- Late Afternoon: Beautiful sunset views, less crowded attractions
Consider factors like weather, crowd levels, and your itinerary when choosing your tour time.
By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your Big Bus Tour Kensington Palace experience, immersing yourself in the royal history and modern charm of this iconic London landmark.
Reference:
1. https://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/place/234056-big-bus-london-tours
2. https://www.london-online.info/en/store/best-deals/75-big-bus-london-sightseeing-3-days
3. https://www.bigbustours.com/en/london/blue-route-london
