Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience

Imagine sipping tea while cruising around Edinburgh on a vintage Routemaster bus—this is precisely what makes the Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience stand out. This tour combines the charm of a classic double-decker with the indulgence of a proper tea service, all set against the backdrop of Scotland’s historic and scenic city. It’s a fun, relaxed way to see some major landmarks and enjoy a tasty treat, making it a popular choice among visitors seeking something a little different.

What we love about this experience is how it balances sightseeing with comfort and fun. The views of landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace are unforgettable, especially with the bus moving at a slow, steady pace. The delicious food, including freshly baked scones and handcrafted sandwiches, receives rave reviews—many say it’s better than typical high teas. Plus, the friendly, lively atmosphere onboard often gets high marks from travelers. The only thing to keep in mind is that if you’re looking for an in-depth historical commentary on Edinburgh, this isn’t the tour for you, as there’s no guided narration.

This experience is perfect for couples, groups of friends, or families looking for a memorable day in Edinburgh. If you enjoy good food, quirky transport, and a dash of sightseeing, this bus-based tea adventure will suit you well. However, it might not be ideal for solo travelers seeking a solitary, quiet experience or anyone expecting a traditional, sit-down high tea in a refined setting.

Key Points

• Unique transportation: Travel on a vintage Routemaster bus, adding nostalgic charm.
• Stunning city views: See Edinburgh’s landmarks from the comfort of the bus.
• Tasty treats included: Enjoy fresh scones, sandwiches, petit fours, cupcakes, and unlimited tea or coffee.
• Flexible scheduling: Choose a departure time to fit your plans.
• Social, lively atmosphere: Expect a friendly vibe, often accompanied by lively music.
• Great value for price: At around $60, it offers a memorable mix of sightseeing and dining.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itself

The Journey and Stops

The tour departs from 22 St Andrew Square, a central and convenient location in Edinburgh. Over approximately 90 minutes, the bus makes several key stops at some of the city’s most photogenic and historically significant sites.

Edinburgh Castle is an obvious highlight. Sitting atop Castle Rock, it dominates the skyline, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s storied past. While the bus doesn’t go inside, you’ll pass by and get a good view, making it easy to snap photos and get a sense of its grandeur.

Next, the bus rolls past The Scott Monument, a Victorian Gothic masterpiece dedicated to Sir Walter Scott. Its intricate spires create a striking silhouette against the sky—a perfect photo stop even from the bus window.

The Meadows is another stop, a large public park popular with locals and visitors alike. It’s a lovely spot to see everyday Edinburgh life and, depending on the weather, maybe catch a glimpse of students relaxing or street performers entertaining crowds.

The Heart of Old Town: Grassmarket and Greyfriars Bobby

The bus then skirts through Grassmarket, a lively area filled with pubs, shops, and colorful history. This is where the story of Greyfriars Bobby unfolds. The famous Skye Terrier, renowned for guarding his owner’s grave for 14 years, is commemorated here, and many guests enjoy hearing about the touching tale during the ride.

Holyrood and Holyrood Park

The tour also passes Holyrood Palace, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland, and the striking Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano and popular hiking spot with panoramic views of Edinburgh. While the bus doesn’t stop here, the passing scenery offers plenty to admire.

The Scottish Parliament and Surroundings

The route includes a glance at the modern Scottish Parliament building, juxtaposed against historic sights, providing a sense of Edinburgh’s blend of past and present.

The Food and Drink

The highlight for many on this tour is undoubtedly the afternoon tea service. The menu features handmade sandwiches, a warm scone with cream and jam, and Petit Fours and cupcakes. Several reviewers have noted the quality of the food as being notably good for a bus experience—some say it rivals or even exceeds traditional high teas.

Unlimited tea or coffee is included, ensuring guests can indulge at their own pace. Alcoholic beverages, like prosecco, are available for purchase, adding a celebratory touch if desired.

One guest compared the experience favorably to high-end London hotels, stating the macarons were superb, and another mentioned that the food and service made the day special.

The Atmosphere and Service

Travelers often describe the onboard vibe as lively and fun. The crew, including the driver and the servers, are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. The music selection, often lively and upbeat, keeps the mood cheerful—some reviews mention it being a bit loud or offbeat, but most find it adds to the charm.

Guests frequently talk about the friendly staff—not just serving food but engaging with humor and local stories, which adds a personal touch to the journey.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts around 70-90 minutes, which makes it a manageable and relaxed activity. The group is capped at 20 travelers, keeping it intimate enough for interaction but lively enough to feel social.

Timing and Booking

Most travelers book their tickets about 46 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. You can select a departure time that fits your schedule, making this flexible and convenient.

Pricing and Value

At $60.04 per person, this experience offers good value considering the combination of sightseeing, food, and fun. Many reviews highlight that the food quality exceeds expectations for a bus tour, and the inclusive unlimited drinks add to the value.

Accessibility and Other Info

Service animals are permitted, and the tour is generally suitable for most travelers aged 5 and up. Expect to share tables, especially on busy weekends, though quieter tours can be arranged. Arrive 10-15 minutes early to avoid missing your departure.

Limitations and Considerations

While the vintage bus adds a nostalgic touch, it can be bumpy on the cobbled streets, which some guests find a bit uncomfortable. There are no toilet facilities onboard, so plan accordingly. The tour doesn’t feature a live guide, so if you’re expecting detailed historical narration, you might find it lacking.

Some guests mentioned that hot drinks are served in plastic cups, which might seem less refined but is necessary for safety on a moving vehicle. Also, the seating is compact, and tables may feel tight if you’re carrying lots of belongings or prefer more space.

What We’re Loving (and What’s Not)

Pros:

• The vintage Routemaster bus creates a unique, fun environment that feels like stepping back in time.
• The scenic route showcases Edinburgh’s major sights, perfect for those who want an overview without the walking.
• The quality of food — warm scones, sandwiches, and cupcakes — often exceeds expectations, especially considering it’s served on a bus.
• The friendly staff and lively atmosphere make the experience memorable, as confirmed by reviews describing the crew as welcoming and humorous.
• The flexible scheduling and simple booking process make planning easy.

Cons:

• The bumpy ride and compact seating can be uncomfortable for some, especially if you’re sensitive to motion or have mobility issues.
• No guided commentary means you’ll need to do your own sightseeing afterward to learn more about the sights.
• Limited facilities onboard, and no option for a traditional high tea setting indoors.

Who Should Book This?

This experience caters best to those wanting a lighthearted, social outing with excellent food and a fun way to see Edinburgh. It’s perfect for couples, friends, families with older children, and anyone looking for a memorable, photo-worthy day with a mix of sightseeing and indulgence.

If you’re after an authentic, relaxed British tradition with a playful twist, this is your ticket. However, if you prefer a quiet, guided historic tour or a luxurious sit-down high tea, you might want to look elsewhere.

FAQs

• Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, children aged 5 and over can join, but those under 14 need to be accompanied by an adult.
• Can I choose my departure time? Yes, you can select a time that fits your schedule when booking.
• Is the experience wheelchair accessible? The data doesn’t specify, but the vintage bus might have some limitations for mobility-impaired guests.
• Are drinks included? Tea and coffee are unlimited, but alcoholic drinks like prosecco are available for purchase.
• What if I arrive late? Arriving 10-15 minutes early is recommended, as latecomers cannot be accommodated once the bus departs.
• Can I cancel? Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.
• Is there a guide narration? No, this is a dining experience without guided commentary.
• Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options? Yes, both are available upon request when booking.
• What should I wear? Dress comfortably for the weather; the bus is open to the elements if it’s a nice day.
• Is there a restroom on the bus? No, there are no toilet facilities onboard.

The Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience offers a delightful blend of sightseeing, socializing, and indulging in traditional British fare—all from the comfort of a vintage bus. It’s lively, informal, and great fun, making it ideal for those wanting to see Edinburgh with a touch of whimsy and a full stomach.

While it’s not a deep-dive historical tour, the mix of scenic views, friendly staff, and tasty treats creates a memorable snapshot of the city. If you’re after an authentic, playful way to enjoy Edinburgh and are happy with a slightly bumpy ride, this experience will serve you well.

Perfect for casual travelers, families, and groups of friends, this tour guarantees a cheerful, photo-friendly day with plenty of tasty moments. Just remember to arrive early, hold onto your glass, and prepare for a lively, unpretentious adventure around Edinburgh’s highlights.

Happy touring and enjoy your Edinburgh adventure!