London: Afternoon Tea Bus & Buckingham Palace Entry Option

Taking a sightseeing tour in London is a fantastic way to see the city’s top sights while enjoying a touch of British tradition — afternoon tea. The London: Afternoon Tea Bus & Buckingham Palace Entry Option offers an engaging blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and culinary delight, all from the comfort of an air-conditioned bus. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, this tour aims to balance iconic landmarks with a relaxing experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the panoramic views of London’s most famous sights are truly impressive, giving you a broad perspective of the city’s layout and grandeur. Second, the knowledgeable guides bring stories and historical tidbits that make each stop more meaningful. Third, the onboard afternoon tea, with fresh sandwiches, cakes, and scones, adds a distinctly British touch to your sightseeing day. A potential consideration? The tour duration varies from 1.5 to 4 hours, which means you’ll want to check the schedule to match your plans. This experience is ideal for those who love a leisurely, story-rich exploration with a gourmet twist, especially if you enjoy trying local traditions in a comfortable setting.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: See London’s most famous landmarks via a comfortable, air-conditioned bus with panoramic views.
• Expert Guide: Learn fascinating stories about London’s history from a knowledgeable, engaging guide.
• Gourmet Afternoon Tea: Enjoy freshly prepared sandwiches, cakes, and scones, with vegan and gluten-free options available.
• Flexible Experience: Add optional Buckingham Palace entry and premium seating for a more personalized day.
• Convenience & Comfort: Free Wi-Fi, USB charging, and a branded souvenir travel cup enhance the journey.
• Value for Money: Combines sightseeing, cultural experience, and a meal at a reasonable price point.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The Scenic Tour of London

Starting from Evan Evans Tours’ base, the tour takes you on a panoramic journey through the heart of London. Over approximately 90 minutes, you’ll pass by some of the most iconic sights, including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge. The route is designed for optimal viewing, with many landmarks visible from the bus windows, but also with the chance to listen to engaging commentary from your guide.

One of the strengths here is the expert guidance. Many reviews praise guides like Graham or Sarah (names may vary depending on the day), who share stories that go beyond the usual facts. You might learn about how Tower of London has served as a palace, prison, and treasury, or the history behind the HMS Belfast docked nearby. Guests often mention how the guides’ storytelling enhances the sightseeing, making it more than just a drive.

The Stops and Pass-By Highlights

The itinerary includes passing by Big Ben (with a quick 10-minute stop), offering great photo opportunities. Moving on, you’ll glide past the London Eye, where you can catch sweeping views of the city’s skyline. The bus then passes through Somerset House, Fleet Street, and St Paul’s Cathedral, each with their own stories, architecture, and significance.

Crossing Tower Bridge and passing the Tower of London are highlights for many. The route takes you along the River Thames, providing fantastic views of historic and modern London in one frame. The final passes along Westminster Abbey, before the tour concludes at Victoria train station.

Guests love how this route captures London’s essence in under two hours, making it perfect for those with limited time but a desire to see a lot.

Afternoon Tea on Board

The main feature—a delicious onboard afternoon tea—is prepared fresh by onboard chefs. The menu includes classic sandwiches like honey roast ham and smoked salmon, alongside veggie options like cucumber with minted butter and vegan wraps. The cakes are equally tempting: chocolate éclairs, fruit tarts, Victoria sponge, and salted caramel brownies, with gluten-free and vegan choices available.

Scones are served fresh with Devon Clotted Cream and Tiptree Strawberry jam. The hot beverage options include traditional teas (English Breakfast, Earl Grey, Chai), with decaf and herbal infusions, plus Lavazza espresso-based drinks like cappuccino and latte. Cold drinks include prosecco (pre-ordered only), juices, and water. The branded souvenir travel cup is a nice touch, giving you a keepsake of your London adventure.

Many reviews highlight the quality and freshness of the food, mentioning how the onboard chefs take care in presentation and taste. The experience feels indulgent but relaxed, with plenty of time to enjoy each bite while taking in the views.

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Additional Options and Upgrades

For those wanting a bit more luxury, you can opt for premium seats on the upper deck, either in the front row or near the stairs, offering better views. You can also add Prosecco to your experience, making it a more celebratory occasion (note: only for adults 18+ and pre-ordered). The Buckingham Palace entry, available from July to September, is a popular add-on for visitors eager for a peek inside the Royal residence’s State Rooms.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour lasts roughly 90 minutes, with some flexibility depending on traffic. It’s important to note that children under 5 are not permitted and that the pick-up and drop-off are not included — you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point at Evan Evans Tours. The buses are fully wheelchair accessible, with dedicated lower-deck tables, but it’s advised to contact the provider in advance if needed.

The tour operates in English, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible choice for spontaneous or planned visits. The price includes the tour, food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and the souvenir cup, making it good value for a combined sightseeing and dining experience.

Why This Tour Works Well for Different Travelers

This experience is especially good for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of London while enjoying a meal. The combination of sightseeing and afternoon tea provides a relaxed, enjoyable way to spend part of your day, especially if you’re tired of walking or want to avoid crowds at major landmarks.

It’s also a smart option for families with older children or couples seeking a romantic, cultural outing. The optional Buckingham Palace entry adds a layer of exclusivity if you’re interested in royal history, and the upgraded seats make the experience feel more premium.

However, if you’re someone hoping for an in-depth exploration of specific sites or a very flexible schedule, this tour might feel a bit confined to its itinerary. Still, the quality of storytelling and the comfort onboard make it a worthwhile choice for most travelers seeking a curated, enjoyable introduction to London.

Final Thoughts

The London: Afternoon Tea Bus & Buckingham Palace Entry Option offers a beautiful blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and indulgence. It’s a well-rounded experience that captures London’s essence while treating you to some classic British hospitality. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable bus, and tasty food combine to create a memorable outing that’s both fun and informative.

This tour’s strength lies in its ability to see many landmarks without rushing, all while enjoying a luxurious meal in a relaxed setting. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a touch of tradition, good storytelling, and scenic views with their sightseeing.

For travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a culinary experience and a chance to peek inside Buckingham Palace, this tour ticks all the boxes. With flexible options and a focus on comfort and value, it’s an excellent choice for a memorable day in London.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 are not permitted on this tour, but older kids who enjoy sightseeing and stories may find it enjoyable.

Do I need to pre-book the Buckingham Palace entry?
Yes, the palace entry is an optional upgrade and must be selected during booking, especially since it’s only available from July to September.

Can I add Prosecco to my experience?
Absolutely, but only if pre-ordered at the time of booking. Prosecco is for adults 18+ only and adds a celebratory element.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended. The bus is air-conditioned, but London weather can be unpredictable, so bring a jacket or umbrella if needed.

Does the tour include hotel pickup or drop-off?
No, transportation to and from the starting point is not included; you’ll need to arrange your own.

Is the bus wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the buses are wheelchair accessible with a fully accessible lower deck, but prior notice is advised to ensure availability.

In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience London’s highlights alongside a taste of British tradition. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a relaxing way to see the sights, it’s a delightful addition to your London itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: