The Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour offers a unique journey through the vibrant era of 1960s London. This immersive experience takes visitors on a vintage bus ride to iconic locations that shaped the music, fashion, and culture of the time. From Abbey Road Studios to King’s Road, the tour provides an authentic glimpse into the heart of Swinging London, complete with expert commentary and period music.
What Is the Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour?
The Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour is a specialized sightseeing experience that focuses on the cultural landmarks and historical sites associated with London’s 1960s music and fashion scene. Typically lasting around 4 hours, the tour uses a vintage-style bus, often a classic Routemaster, to transport visitors through the streets of London.
Key features of the tour include:
- Expert guides providing live commentary
- 1960s music played onboard
- Stops at iconic locations from the era
- Photo opportunities at famous sites
Where Does the Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour Start?
Most Swinging Sixties London Bus Tours begin at one of two locations:
- Sloane Square Tube Station
- Side entrance of the V&A Museum
These starting points are chosen for their proximity to key areas associated with the 1960s scene, particularly the King’s Road area which was a hub of fashion and culture during the era.
What Are the Main Stops on the Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour?
The tour typically includes the following stops:
- King’s Road
- Mary Quant’s ‘Bazaar’
- ‘Granny Takes A Trip’ boutique
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‘Dandie Fashions’ store
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The Pheasantry and Old Church Street
- Eric Clapton’s former residence
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Recording studio used by Pink Floyd, Cat Stevens, and The Who
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Cheyne Walk
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Residences of various music legends
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Flood Street
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Location of The Beatles’ ‘Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’ album cover photo shoot
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Edith Grove
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Early home of the Rolling Stones
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Troubadour
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Iconic music venue where Paul Simon, Bob Dylan, and Jimi Hendrix performed
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Abbey Road Studios (external view)
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Photo opportunity outside the famous recording studio
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Roundhouse (external view)
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Historic music venue
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Marquee Club (external view)
- Former location of this pivotal rock music venue
How Long Does the Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour Last?
The typical duration of a Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour is approximately 4 hours. This allows for:
- Adequate time at each stop
- Travel between locations
- Commentary and music on the bus
Here’s a breakdown of time spent at key locations:
| Location | Duration |
|---|---|
| King’s Road | 30 minutes |
| The Pheasantry and Old Church Street | 20 minutes |
| Cheyne Walk | 20 minutes |
| Flood Street | 15 minutes |
| Edith Grove | 15 minutes |
| Troubadour | 30 minutes |
| Abbey Road Studios | 10 minutes |
| Roundhouse | 10 minutes |
| Marquee Club | 10 minutes |
What Type of Bus Is Used for the Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour?
The Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour typically uses:
- Brightly colored, vintage-style buses
- Often a classic Routemaster London bus
- Buses decorated with 1960s themes
These buses are chosen to enhance the nostalgic experience and transport visitors back to the 1960s era.
How Many People Can Join a Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour?
The capacity of the tours varies depending on the type of experience:
- Private tours: Usually accommodate up to 6 or 7 people
- Group tours: Can accommodate larger numbers, typically around 25-30 people
For a more intimate experience, private tours are recommended. Group tours offer a more social atmosphere and may be more cost-effective for larger parties.
What Amenities Are Available on the Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour?
The vintage buses used for the Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour come equipped with several amenities to enhance the experience:
- Live commentary by expert tour guides
- 60s music and authentic ‘jingles’ from the era
- Some tours may offer tea and coffee (not universally included)
- Audio guides in multiple languages (on some tours)
- Comfortable seating
- Large windows for sightseeing
How Much Does the Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour Cost?
Pricing for the Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour varies depending on the type of tour and group size:
- Private tours for up to 6 people: £180-£290
- Bespoke tours: From £290
- Group tours: From £350
Additional costs may include:
– Airport transfers
– Customized itineraries for bespoke tours
It’s always best to check with the tour operator for the most up-to-date pricing and any available discounts for larger groups.
How Can I Book a Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour?
Booking a Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour is straightforward:
- Visit the tour operator’s website
- Select your preferred date and time
- Choose between a private or group tour
- Enter the number of participants
- Provide contact information
- Make payment (usually by credit card)
Alternatively, you can contact the tour operators directly:
– Email: [email protected] (for London Rock Tour)
– Phone: Check the operator’s website for current contact numbers
Tours are typically available daily at various times (e.g., 9am, 11:30am, 2pm, 4:30pm, 7pm).
Is the Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour Accessible?
Accessibility can vary depending on the specific tour and locations visited:
- Vintage buses may have limited wheelchair access
- Some historical sites may not be fully accessible
- It’s recommended to contact the tour operator in advance to discuss any specific accessibility requirements
Many tour operators strive to accommodate all visitors, so it’s worth inquiring about alternative arrangements if needed.
The Swinging Sixties London Bus Tour offers a unique and immersive way to experience the iconic era of 1960s London. From music landmarks to fashion hotspots, this tour provides a comprehensive journey through one of the most influential periods in the city’s cultural history. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a fashion lover, or simply interested in London’s rich past, this tour promises an unforgettable trip back in time.
References:
1. Red Letter Days – Swinging Sixties Private Bus Tour of London
2. Peek – Swinging 60s in London: Private Psychedelic Bus Tour
3. Golden Tours – Private Scheduled Tours: London in the 1960s
