London: “Here We Go Again” Afternoon Tea Bus

If you’re on the hunt for a quirky yet charming way to see London, the “Here We Go Again” Afternoon Tea Bus offers a delightful mix of sightseeing, musical fun, and British tradition. This experience combines an iconic pink double-decker bus, a delicious afternoon tea, and a lively ABBA sing-along, making it perfect for those who love a bit of kitsch with their culture.

While we haven’t personally hopped aboard (yet!), after poring over reviews and the details of this tour, it’s clear this activity has a lot to offer—especially if you’re a fan of good food, great views, and a fun atmosphere.

We love the cheerful vibe, the chance to see London from both land and water, and the tasty tea offerings. Plus, singing ABBA hits with fellow fans adds a memorable twist. The only potential drawback? The bus can get quite warm, especially on sunny days, so be prepared for a bit of heat if the weather’s hot.

This tour is ideal for families, ABBA lovers, and those wanting a relaxed, lighthearted way to experience London’s highlights away from the usual hustle.

Key Points

• Unique experience combining sightseeing, food, and music in one fun package.
• Beautiful views of iconic landmarks from both the bus and the Thames river.
• Tasty afternoon tea with a variety of dietary options and a glass of prosecco.
• Engaging ABBA sing-along that adds energy and nostalgia.
• Comfortable, colorful pink bus provides a visual treat and a memorable photo backdrop.
• Flexible timing with a 1.5-hour duration to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Through London’s Landmarks

The tour kicks off at a vibrant pink-striped bus marked “The English Tea Bus” at Golden Tours Stop 1, easy to spot thanks to its bright color and large sign. From there, you’ll start a 1.5-hour adventure through London’s most famous neighborhoods, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos and soak in the sights.

Landmarks from Land and Water

Along the route, expect to see Waterloo, Westminster, and London Bridge—all packed with history and character. Your guide (who’s friendly and attentive, according to reviews) will help point out major sites like Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Big Ben, and the Tower of London. The combination of river views and city streets gives a fresh perspective of London that’s both relaxing and visually stunning.

One review by a guest named Ailsa mentions the “tasty afternoon tea, plenty to eat and ABBA music to sing along to,” highlighting how the views and food create a memorable experience. Another reviewer, Rayssa, loved the “excellent” food and the surprise gift at the end, adding a nice touch of value.

Onboard Experience

The interior of the pink bus is designed for comfort and fun. Passengers share tables, creating a cozy, friendly atmosphere—perfect for groups or couples. The food served is traditional finger sandwiches, sweet treats, and scones, with options that include vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free choices. The menu is curated to cater to diverse dietary needs, but it’s essential to inform the organizers at least 72 hours in advance if you have specific allergies or dietary restrictions.

Guests generally appreciate the delicious food, with one reviewer calling the tea “great” and the food “delicious.” The inclusion of a glass of prosecco or soft drink elevates the experience, making it feel special without it being overly formal.

ABBA Sing-Along: The Musical Highlight

The highlight for many seems to be the sing-along to ABBA’s top hits. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just enjoy a bit of nostalgic fun, singing “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” or “Dancing Queen” while cruising past London’s landmarks offers a sense of camaraderie and pure joy. The reviews note that the music is lively, and guests are encouraged to wear colored sunglasses—adding a playful touch.

One reviewer mentioned the music’s selection could be improved by focusing on the most popular ABBA hits, but overall, the lively atmosphere and sing-alongs are a hit.

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The Water Experience

A unique feature of this tour is the view of London from the Thames, giving a different perspective of the city’s skyline. You’ll see the London Eye, The Shard, and the Tower of London from the water, which many find to be a highlight. This dual land-and-water approach means you can soak in the city’s grandeur while enjoying your tea and songs.

Practical Details

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with multiple start times available—check the schedule for your preferred slot. It’s best to arrive a little early to find the bus and settle in comfortably.

Meeting Point and End

Meet at Golden Tours Stop 1, easily identifiable by the pink-striped bus. The experience concludes back at the same spot, making it convenient for onward plans.

Transportation and Comfort

The pink bus is a double-decker with both upper and lower decks. Passengers sit on shared tables, which helps foster a social atmosphere. Accessibility is somewhat limited: wheelchair users can sit on the lower deck but need to sit in fixed seats, and there are no toilets onboard.

Price and Value

While exact prices aren’t listed here, reviews suggest that many find the cost reasonable given the combination of sightseeing, food, drinks, and entertainment. The added value of memorable photos, a unique perspective of London, and an enjoyable meal makes it a good deal for those interested in a relaxed, fun outing.

Dietary Needs and Restrictions

The menu features options for vegetarians, vegans, halal, and gluten-free diets, provided you notify the organizers at least 72 hours in advance. The food is described as tasty, with guests praising the quality of the sandwiches, cupcakes, and scones.

Important Considerations

• No smoking, alcohol, or drugs allowed onboard.
• Children under 15 must be accompanied by a paying adult, and children under 5 are not permitted.
• Guests may share tables, so be prepared for a social experience.
• The route may vary slightly due to traffic or road closures, but landmarks will be visible regardless.
• No toilets onboard, so plan accordingly.
• Weather: The bus is open-air on the upper deck, so dress appropriately for rain or sun.

Authentic Guest Perspectives

Many reviewers commend the friendly and attentive staff. According to Tracy, the guide was “attentive and very professional,” which added to the overall positive vibe. The food quality also receives high praise—”the tea was great” and “food was delicious,” as noted by Peggy. The surprise gift at the end, as mentioned by Rayssa, is a nice bonus, adding a personal touch that makes the experience feel value-packed.

Singing ABBA is a definite crowd-pleaser, even if some guests wish the playlist focused more on the chart-toppers. The sunglasses provided are a fun accessory, contributing to the playful, festive atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for ABBA fans, families, or anyone looking to combine sightseeing with a relaxed, social meal. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy music, good food, and scenic views without the hustle of traditional city tours.

It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a quiet, intimate dining setting, as the shared tables and open design can be lively. Similarly, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems due to the seating arrangement and movement.

Final Thoughts

The “Here We Go Again” Afternoon Tea Bus offers a whimsical twist on London sightseeing, blending classic landmarks with a lively ABBA sing-along and a delicious meal. Its bright pink exterior, cheerful atmosphere, and scenic views make it a memorable outing for all ages.

While it may not suit those seeking a quiet, luxury experience, it hits the sweet spot for fun-loving travelers who want a casual, social way to see the city and indulge in British tradition with a musical twist. The combination of great food, engaging entertainment, and stunning vistas makes this tour a unique addition to your London itinerary.

If you’re after a relaxed, joyful experience that combines sightseeing with good food and music, this tour offers excellent value and genuine fun.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult. Under 5s are not allowed onboard.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book ahead to secure your preferred start time and dietary requirements, which need to be communicated at least 72 hours in advance.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, the menu includes vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free options, provided you inform the organizers beforehand.

Is the route flexible?
The route may change due to traffic or road closures, but you’ll still see most major landmarks from both the bus and water.

Are there toilets onboard?
No, the bus does not have toilet facilities, so plan accordingly.

Is the bus open-air?
Yes, the upper deck is open-air, making it perfect for sunny days but less ideal in rain or cold weather.

Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely. The views and photo opportunities are fantastic from both the bus and the boat.

Is there an age limit for the alcohol?
Yes, alcohol is only served to guests aged 18 and over, with valid ID required.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and be prepared for London’s weather—layered clothing is advisable, especially if sitting on the open upper deck.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option for travel plans.

This tour blends sightseeing, entertainment, and British tradition into a lively 1.5-hour adventure through London. Whether you’re a music lover, a foodie, or simply seeking a memorable way to see the city, the “Here We Go Again” Afternoon Tea Bus promises a charming experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: