London: Afternoon Tea Bus & Buckingham Palace Entry Option

London: Afternoon Tea Bus & Buckingham Palace Entry Option — A Practical Guide

Travelers looking to combine sightseeing with a tasty treat often ask, “What’s the best way to see London without sacrificing comfort or authenticity?” This tour offers a charming solution, blending a panoramic bus ride with an elegant afternoon tea. We’re here to give a detailed look at what makes this experience stand out — and whether it’s right for you.

What we love about this tour is its combination of expert commentary from knowledgeable guides, the chance to enjoy freshly prepared food onboard, and the flexibility of optional Buckingham Palace entry. The scenic route along the Thames passing key landmarks is also a definite highlight, offering stunning views without the fuss of navigating London’s busy streets yourself.

A possible consideration is that the tour lasts between 1.5 to 4 hours, which may feel lengthy depending on the group size and traffic conditions. Also, the lower deck seats provide partially obstructed views, which might impact your overall experience if you’re particular about sightseeing.

This experience is perfect for those wanting a leisurely way to see London’s most famous sights while indulging in a traditional afternoon tea. It suits travelers who appreciate comfort, expert insights, and a touch of British elegance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible Duration: Tours range from 1.5 to 4 hours — check specific timing to fit your schedule.
• Comprehensive Sightseeing: Pass by iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye with expert commentary.
• Gourmet Afternoon Tea: Enjoy freshly made sandwiches, scones, and cakes onboard, with vegan and gluten-free options available.
• Optional Royal Visit: Add a stop at Buckingham Palace’s State Apartments (July-September) for a royal glimpse.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned buses with free Wi-Fi, USB charging, and a branded souvenir cup ensure a pleasant experience.
• Upgrade Possibilities: Premium seats on the upper deck and bubbly options available for a more indulgent experience.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Departure & Setting

The tour begins at Evan Evans Tours’ central location, a convenient starting point for exploring London. The bus is branded with PG Tips, instantly signaling a quintessentially British experience. You’ll board an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with free Wi-Fi and USB ports — perfect for catching up on photos or messages during the tour.

Many travelers have noted the value of comfortable seating, especially since the lower deck seats are accessible but offer partially obscured views. The premium seats on the upper deck, located at the front or near the stairs, provide clearer panoramas. So, if you’re a photo enthusiast or simply want the best view, consider upgrading.

The Scenic Route & Landmark Passes

The route is designed to showcase London’s most famed sights, and our guide’s commentary adds context, bringing the city’s history alive. Pass by Big Ben and Westminster Abbey with a quick 10-minute pass-by, giving you a sense of the grandeur surrounding Parliament Square.

You’ll glide past the London Eye, where you can appreciate the city’s modern skyline, and then continue along the Thames, crossing Tower Bridge and passing the Tower of London. The tour makes it easy to snap photos of these landmarks from the comfort of the bus, with many reviewers praising the commentary from guides like “Ben,” who was described as “friendly and knowledgeable,” offering insights beyond what you might find in a guidebook.

Along the route, passing Somerset House and Fleet Street allows for a sense of London’s historic financial and cultural centers. The bus also skirts St Paul’s Cathedral and HMS Belfast, giving a well-rounded view of the city’s diverse architecture and history.

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The Food & Beverage Experience

One of the most celebrated aspects of this tour is the onboard afternoon tea. The menu features a variety of freshly prepared sandwiches — from honey roast gammon with pickled onion to smoked salmon with crème fraiche — catering to traditional tastes. The scones are freshly baked, served with clotted cream and strawberry jam, and the selection of cakes and tarts adds a sweet touch.

Healthy or vegan travelers aren’t left out — vegan/Gluten-Free options include vegan mozzarella sandwiches, mushroom pithivier, and gingerbread or lemon drizzle cakes. This thoughtful menu has been appreciated by those with specific dietary needs, with one reviewer noting, “The vegan options were delicious and satisfying.”

The drinks menu offers hot teas, coffee, and optional prosecco (pre-ordered, adults only). The included branded travel cup is a nice touch, serving as a memorable souvenir of the experience.

The Optional Buckingham Palace Entry

From July to September, you can upgrade your experience to include a visit to Buckingham Palace’s State Apartments. This is a rare chance to glimpse into the royal residence, exploring lavish rooms used by the monarch. The entry must be pre-selected at booking and is ideal for those wanting a more in-depth royal experience.

Travelers have described the interior as “opulent and full of history,” making it a highlight for fans of royal history. Keep in mind, the palace tour is only available during specific months and is an additional cost.

The Itinerary & Timing

The tour includes several key stops and pass-bys, with durations varying based on traffic and the specific route taken that day. Expect approximately 90 minutes of sightseeing, with some tours extending up to 4 hours if you include the palace visit and premium seating.

Stops include Big Ben, The London Eye, Somerset House, Fleet Street, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey. Each provides a snapshot of London’s layered history, from medieval to modern.

The final stop is at Victoria train station, making it easy for travelers to connect to other transport links.

The Practical Details & Value

The tour price covers the bus with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a knowledgeable guide, a delicious afternoon tea, and a souvenir travel cup — offering considerable value for a combined sightseeing and dining experience.

Extras like premium seats or Prosecco enhance the experience, but even standard tickets deliver comfort and memorable views. The no-hassle cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance) offers flexibility, which is helpful when planning a busy sightseeing day.

Accessibility & Additional Info

The buses are fully wheelchair accessible with a dedicated lower deck table. This inclusivity makes it a good choice for travelers with mobility needs, provided they inform the tour provider in advance.

Children under age 5 are not permitted, so it’s best suited for families with older kids, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed, elegant way to see the city.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with a touch of class without the hassle of multiple bookings. It suits visitors who value comfort, expert commentary, and a chance to indulge in a traditional afternoon tea.

Royal enthusiasts will appreciate the optional Buckingham Palace entry, and food lovers will enjoy the freshly prepared menu onboard. The scenic route along the Thames offers fantastic photo opportunities, making it perfect for Instagram fans.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, informative, and delicious way to see London’s top sights, this tour ticks many boxes — especially if you prefer an organized experience with built-in commentary and culinary delights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour departs from Evan Evans Tours’ central location, and hotel pickup is not provided.

How long does the tour last? The main sightseeing portion lasts about 90 minutes, but total duration varies from 1.5 to 4 hours depending on options and traffic.

Can I upgrade to premium seats? Yes, premium seating on the upper deck is available, offering better views and a more comfortable experience.

Is there an option to add Prosecco? Yes, prosecco (pre-ordered at booking) can be added for adults 18+ for an extra touch of celebration.

Are dietary requirements accommodated? Yes, but you must advise at least 72 hours in advance. Vegan and gluten-free options are available for the afternoon tea.

Is Buckingham Palace entry guaranteed? The palace visit is an optional upgrade available from July to September, but seats must be booked in advance.

What is the best time to take the tour? Availability varies, so check the schedule for specific times. Early afternoon tours often work well for combining sightseeing and dining.

Final Thoughts

This combined sightseeing and dining experience offers a comfortable, convenient way to see some of London’s most famous landmarks while enjoying a delicious meal. The guided commentary adds context to your views, and the optional royal palace visit provides a special peek into British royalty.

Ideal for travelers who appreciate good food, expert insights, and scenic views, this tour balances relaxation with cultural enrichment. The thoughtful menu options and accessible features ensure it’s a welcoming experience for a variety of visitors.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to experience London in style, this tour delivers a memorable, tastefully curated day in the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: