Wimbledon Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

If you’re seeking a unique way to explore London’s famous landmarks while indulging in a quintessentially British tradition, the Wimbledon Afternoon Tea Bus Tour might just be your perfect match. This 90-minute journey combines sightseeing with a delicious afternoon tea, all served aboard a Wimbledon-themed bus that’s decked out with tennis-inspired props and decorations. Whether you’re a tennis fan or just someone who appreciates a good cup of tea and tasty bites, this experience offers a charming slice of British culture.

We love that this tour offers panoramic views of London’s top sights, including Big Ben and the London Eye, while serving up finger sandwiches, scones, and strawberries & cream treats. The inclusion of Pimms or Prosecco makes it feel like a proper celebration, and the playful tennis-themed decor adds a fun touch. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts only 1.5 hours, so if you’re hoping for a more in-depth sightseeing experience, you might want to plan other activities around it. This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed, culturally rich afternoon with a dash of elegance — perfect for tennis enthusiasts, food lovers, or anyone looking for a memorable way to see London.

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Key Points

Unique Format: Combines sightseeing with afternoon tea aboard a decorated bus
Iconic Landmarks: Passes landmarks like Big Ben and the London Eye
Delicious Food & Drink: Enjoys strawberries & cream treats, finger sandwiches, scones, plus Pimms or Prosecco
Tennis-Themed Fun: Decor and props add a playful, Wimbledon-inspired vibe
Limited Duration: 1.5 hours, ideal for a relaxed yet memorable experience
No Guide on Board: Staff highlight landmarks but no live commentary, so plan accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Wimbledon Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

This experience is designed for people who love a bit of British tradition paired with sightseeing. The bustling, Wimbledon-themed bus sets the tone for a playful, posh adventure through London’s streets. The journey lasts about 90 minutes, during which you’ll glide past some of London’s most famous sights, all while relaxing with a beautifully presented afternoon tea.

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The Route and Sights

The tour begins in a conveniently accessible location near Victoria Station, specifically Bulleid Way. From there, the bus meanders through central London, offering panoramic views of landmarks such as Big Ben and the London Eye. Although the route may change due to traffic or road closures, the primary focus is on showcasing London’s most recognizable sights in a relaxed setting. Reviewers have appreciated the clear commentary from onboard staff, who point out interesting facts and tidbits about each landmark, even if there’s no formal guide.

The Food and Drink Experience

One of the highlights is the wimbledon-inspired menu. Guests are served a selection of sweet treats, finger sandwiches, and scones, all presented beautifully on elegant tiered trays. The strawberries and cream flavor theme is a nod to Wimbledon’s legendary strawberries, adding a classic British touch. Reviewers often mention the delicious and freshly made nature of the food, with some noting that the scones are particularly good — warm, flaky, and served with clotted cream and jam.

The beverage options include Pimms, Prosecco, or soft drinks, with the alcohol only served to those over 18, so be prepared to show ID if you’re enjoying the Prosecco or Pimms. Interestingly, extra glasses of Prosecco can’t be purchased onboard, so if you’re celebrating, consider adding more at booking. This setup encourages a relaxed, social atmosphere without overindulgence, making it ideal for a leisurely afternoon.

The Decor and Atmosphere

The bus is decorated with Wimbledon-themed props, including tennis rackets, grass court motifs, and playful signage, creating a fun, thematic ambiance. Guests can pose with tennis-themed props and enjoy taking photos of the lively, colorful decor. The staff are friendly and efficient, ensuring everyone is served promptly and comfortably.

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The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour shines for tennis fans who want to celebrate Wimbledon in style, but it’s also perfect for food lovers and those seeking a quintessentially British afternoon. It’s a cozy, fun alternative to traditional sightseeing tours, especially for visitors who want a light, social activity that combines culture, cuisine, and a bit of British humor.

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The Practicalities

Duration and Timing

At just 1.5 hours, this tour is ideal for fitting into a busy sightseeing day or as a relaxing afternoon activity. Be sure to arrive 15 minutes early to check in and settle in. Starting times vary, so it’s wise to check availability when booking.

Price and Value

While the tour isn’t the cheapest activity in London, the value lies in the combination of sightseeing, delicious food, and a fun, themed environment. You’re paying for the experience of riding through London’s highlights while enjoying a thoughtfully curated afternoon tea. Keep in mind that additional drinks or extra servings are not included, so plan accordingly if you want more beverage options.

Accessibility and Limitations

The tour does not accommodate wheelchair users, and luggage or large bags are not allowed onboard. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and children under 5 are not permitted. Also, there are no toilets onboard, so plan ahead if needed.

Meeting Point

The starting point is near Victoria Station, at Bulleid Way, not Victoria Coach Station. Directions involve exiting Victoria Station via Buckingham Palace Road, turning left, crossing at the traffic lights, and turning right into Bulleid Way. The tour ends back at the same location, making it convenient for further exploration or transport connections.

Why This Tour Offers More Than Just a Tea Party

The Wimbledon Afternoon Tea Bus Tour strikes a fine balance between sightseeing, indulgence, and fun. Expect to see London’s most iconic sights from the comfort of a decorated bus, while enjoying delicious, themed treats that evoke the spirit of Wimbledon. It’s a delightful way to experience London’s culture without the fatigue of walking extensive routes, and the playful decor adds a memorable touch.

The staff’s friendly approach and the quality of the food are often highlighted as standout features. Guests frequently mention how knowledgeable the crew are at pointing out landmarks and sharing interesting tidbits, even if there’s no formal guide onboard. The visual appeal of the decor and the chance to take fun photos with tennis props make it a popular choice for social media-savvy travelers.

For tennis enthusiasts, this tour offers a unique way to celebrate Wimbledon, complete with themed decorations and treats. For food lovers, the thoughtfully prepared menu and refreshing drinks make it a laid-back culinary experience. And for those simply wanting to see London from a different perspective, the panoramic windows and relaxed pace provide a fantastic overview of the city.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those looking for a relaxed, fun, and culturally rich afternoon. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends seeking a memorable, light-hearted adventure. Tennis fans will appreciate the themed decor, but even if you’re not a sports devotee, the charming setting, delicious food, and iconic sights make it a worthwhile outing.

Travelers with a limited schedule will find the 1.5-hour length is just right — enough time to enjoy good food and scenic views without feeling rushed. However, if you’re after a more in-depth exploration of London or want a guide-led experience, you might prefer other options.

The Wimbledon Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers a charming, flavorful, and visually appealing way to experience London’s sights with a uniquely British flourish. It’s a memorable slice of London life, perfect for celebrating Wimbledon or indulging in a bit of traditional afternoon tea with a twist.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 5 are not allowed on this tour, largely due to space and safety considerations.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Vegan and gluten-free options are not available if booked within 72 hours of the tour. For special meal requests, you need to contact the provider at least 72 hours in advance, but availability cannot be guaranteed.

Can I buy extra drinks onboard?
Extra glasses of Prosecco cannot be purchased on the bus. If you want more Prosecco, you’ll need to add it during the booking process.

Is there a guide on the bus?
There is no live guide onboard, but staff will highlight points of interest and landmarks as you pass them. Expect a friendly, informative commentary rather than a guided tour.

Are there restroom facilities onboard?
No, there are no toilets on the bus, so plan accordingly before the tour begins.

Is the route fixed, and can it change?
The route may vary due to traffic or road closures, but it generally covers key sights like Big Ben and the London Eye.

How long before departure should I arrive?
It’s recommended to arrive about 15 minutes early to check in and settle in comfortably.

To sum it up, the Wimbledon Afternoon Tea Bus Tour is a delightful way to blend sightseeing, British tradition, and a touch of tennis-themed fun. It offers great value for a short, memorable experience, especially if you want to see London’s highlights while indulging in delicious treats. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon, this tour appeals to a broad range of travelers seeking a bit of culture, cuisine, and quirky charm in their London trip.