The London tea party bus tour offers a delightful blend of traditional afternoon tea and sightseeing in the heart of London. Passengers enjoy a selection of sandwiches, cakes, and scones while touring iconic landmarks aboard a vintage double-decker bus. This unique experience combines British culinary tradition with the city’s rich history, providing tourists and locals alike with an unforgettable journey through the streets of London.
What is a London Tea Party Bus Tour?
A London tea party bus tour is a mobile afternoon tea experience that takes place on a vintage double-decker bus while touring the city’s most famous landmarks. Passengers are served a traditional afternoon tea menu, including sandwiches, scones, and pastries, along with a selection of teas or other beverages. The tour typically lasts between 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Which Companies Offer London Tea Party Bus Tours?
Several companies offer London tea party bus tours, each with its unique features and routes:
- B Bakery Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
- Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
- Afternoon Tea Bus with Panoramic Tour of London (Gray Line/Golden Tours)
What Are the Routes and Key Landmarks Covered?
Each tour company offers slightly different routes, but they all cover major London landmarks. Here’s a comparison table of the routes:
| Tour Company | Starting Point | Key Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| B Bakery | Victoria Coach Station | Kensington, Hyde Park Corner, Harrods, V&A Museum, Natural History Museum, Royal Albert Hall, Notting Hill, Marble Arch, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace |
| Brigit’s Bakery | Victoria Coach Station or 8 Northumberland Avenue | Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, St James’s Park, Hyde Park, Royal Albert Hall, Marble Arch, Nelson’s Column, Downing Street |
| Gray Line/Golden Tours | Golden Tours Stop 1, Bulleid Way | London Eye, Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament |
What Type of Buses Are Used for the Tours?
The tours typically use vintage double-decker buses, often restored Routemasters from the 1960s. These iconic red buses have been retrofitted to accommodate tables and seating for afternoon tea service while maintaining their classic charm.
What’s Included in the Afternoon Tea Menu?
The afternoon tea menu generally includes:
- A selection of finger sandwiches
- Freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam
- An assortment of mini cakes and pastries
- A variety of teas (or coffee upon request)
- Some tours also offer a glass of prosecco or champagne
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal options are often available upon request.
How Long Do the Tours Last?
Tour durations vary slightly between companies:
- B Bakery: Approximately 1 hour
- Brigit’s Bakery: About 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Gray Line/Golden Tours: Approximately 90 minutes
Actual duration may vary depending on traffic conditions.
What Are the Costs and Scheduling Options?
Prices for London tea party bus tours vary:
- B Bakery: Prices not specified in the source
- Brigit’s Bakery: Prices not detailed, but there’s a £4.20 booking fee per table
- Gray Line/Golden Tours: Prices start from around £62.13 per person
Most tours offer multiple departure times throughout the day, with options for private bookings and special events.
Are the Tours Accessible for People with Disabilities?
Accessibility options vary between tour companies:
- B Bakery: No specific information provided
- Brigit’s Bakery: One accessibility bus available with disabled access (must be requested in advance)
- Gray Line/Golden Tours: Wheelchair users can sit on the lower deck in fixed position seats
It’s important to check with the specific tour company for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
What Are the Cancellation Policies?
Cancellation policies differ between companies:
- Gray Line/Golden Tours allows cancellations or amendments up to 48 hours before departure without a fee
- For other companies, it’s best to check their specific policies when booking
Are There Any Additional Features or Services?
Some additional features and services offered by various tour companies include:
- Automated guide voice and staff commentary on smaller landmarks
- Background music
- Options for private bookings and special events
- Seasonal and themed tours (e.g., Christmas, Valentine’s Day)
How Can I Book a London Tea Party Bus Tour?
To book a London tea party bus tour:
- Choose your preferred tour company
- Visit their official website or authorized booking platforms
- Select your desired date and time
- Choose any additional options or dietary requirements
- Complete the booking process and payment
It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
What Should I Know Before Going on a London Tea Party Bus Tour?
Here are some tips for your London tea party bus tour:
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time
- Dress comfortably, but remember it’s a special occasion
- Inform the tour company of any dietary restrictions in advance
- Be prepared for potential traffic delays
- Bring a camera to capture the sights and your unique tea experience
- There are no toilets on the buses, so plan accordingly
A London tea party bus tour offers a delightful way to experience the city’s landmarks while enjoying a quintessentially British tradition. Whether you’re a tourist or a local looking for a unique outing, these tours provide an unforgettable blend of sightseeing and culinary indulgence.
References:
1. B Bakery Bus Tour: The BEST Afternoon Tea Bus Tour In London
2. B Afternoon Tea Bus Tour | Sightseeing Tour of London | Book
3. Afternoon Tea Bus with Panoramic Tour of London – Gray Line
