The Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus Tour in London is a delightful 1 hour and 45-minute journey through the heart of the city, combining sightseeing with a themed afternoon tea experience. Departing from Trafalgar Square, this unique tour takes guests past iconic landmarks while enjoying Paddington-inspired treats and interactive entertainment. Perfect for families and fans of the beloved bear, the tour offers a magical way to explore London’s sights and indulge in a quintessentially British pastime.
What Does the Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus Tour Include?
The Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus Tour is a comprehensive experience that includes:
- A scenic tour of London’s famous landmarks
- A themed afternoon tea menu
- Interactive Paddington-guided animation
- Fun games for the whole family
Let’s delve deeper into each of these elements:
Sightseeing Route
The tour takes you past several iconic London landmarks, including:
- Big Ben
- The Houses of Parliament
- Westminster Abbey
- Hyde Park
- Nelson’s Column
- St Paul’s Cathedral
- Borough Market
- Green Park
- Piccadilly Circus
During the festive season (November 9th to December 31st), the 17:30 tour includes a special route along Regent Street to view the stunning Christmas lights.
Afternoon Tea Menu
The Paddington-themed menu includes a delightful selection of savory and sweet treats:
Savory Items:
– Turkey Ham & Cheddar Finger Sandwich
– Cream Cheese & Cucumber Finger Sandwich
– Mini Margarita Pizza
– Smoked Salmon & Cucumber Pretzel
– The Best Marmalade Finger Sandwich Ever!
Sweet Treats:
– Shortbread Cookie
– Vanilla Rice Pudding
– Chocolate Cupcake (with bear paw print)
– Lemon Meringue Tart
– Chocolate Macaron
– Freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam
Beverages:
– Water
– Coffee
– Hot Chocolate
– Various teas (English Breakfast, Earl Grey, and more)
How Much Does the Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus Tour Cost?
The pricing for the Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus Tour is as follows:
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | £69-£70 per person |
| Children (5-11 years) | £60 per person |
What Are the Dietary Options Available?
The tour caters to various dietary requirements:
- Traditional
- Vegan
- Vegetarian
- Halal
- Gluten-free (£3 extra)
However, it’s important to note that the tour cannot accommodate:
- Nut-free or peanut-free diets
- Combination of dairy & gluten-free
- Combination of vegan & gluten-free
- Coeliacs
Gluten-free menus may contain traces, and all allergies must be emailed and confirmed by management in advance.
What Interactive Elements Make This Tour Special for Families?
The Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers several interactive elements to keep families engaged:
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Paddington-Guided Animation: Each table features a built-in screen that provides a Paddington-guided animation tour of London. Narrated by Paddington and Mrs. Bird, this feature shares the bear’s unique perspective on his favorite landmarks.
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Interactive Games: The tour includes fun games for the whole family to enjoy, making the experience entertaining for children and adults alike.
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Themed Treats: The afternoon tea menu is carefully crafted to reflect the Paddington Bear theme, including bear paw print chocolate-topped cupcakes and the famous marmalade sandwiches that are central to Paddington’s stories.
What Are the Logistical Details and Accessibility Considerations?
Tour Schedule
- Tours operate from Wednesday to Sunday
- Departure times: 13:45 and 17:30
- Booking recommended at least 4 weeks in advance to ensure availability
Accessibility
- The bus is not wheelchair accessible for entrance
- Folded wheelchairs can be accommodated on the bus
- All allergies must be emailed and confirmed by management in advance
Age Restrictions
The tour is best suited for children aged 5 and above due to:
– The length of the tour (1 hour and 45 minutes)
– The absence of toilets on the bus
How Can I Make the Most of My Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus Tour?
To ensure you have the best experience on your Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, consider these tips:
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Book in advance: With limited availability, it’s crucial to secure your spot early, especially during peak seasons.
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Arrive early: Be at the departure point near Trafalgar Square at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
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Dress comfortably: While there’s no strict dress code, comfortable clothing is recommended for the bus journey.
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Bring a camera: With so many iconic landmarks to see, you’ll want to capture the memories.
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Engage with the interactive elements: Make the most of the Paddington-guided animation and participate in the family games to enhance your experience.
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Try the marmalade sandwich: Don’t miss out on Paddington’s favorite treat!
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Consider dietary requirements: If you have specific dietary needs, communicate these well in advance to ensure they can be accommodated.
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Plan your transportation: As there’s no specific mention of parking facilities, consider using public transportation or researching nearby parking options.
The Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus Tour in London offers a unique and enchanting way to experience the city’s sights while indulging in a beloved British tradition. With its combination of sightseeing, themed treats, and interactive elements, it’s an unforgettable adventure for Paddington fans of all ages. Whether you’re a local looking for a new way to see the city or a visitor seeking a magical London experience, this tour promises to deliver a marmalade-filled journey through the heart of the capital.
References:
- https://www.intotheblue.co.uk/experiences/paddington-afternoon-tea-bus-tour/
- https://www.virginexperiencedays.co.uk/product/paddington-afternoon-tea-bus-tour-for-two-adults-
- https://afternoontea.co.uk/uk/london/covent-garden/b-afternoon-tea-bus-tour/menus/paddington-afternoon-tea-bus-tour/
