London Theatre Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

London Theatre Afternoon Tea Bus Tour: A Delightful Blend of Sightseeing, Music, and Tastes

This review explores the London Theatre Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, an experience that promises a charming mix of iconic city views, musical nostalgia, and a tasty afternoon snack—all aboard a vintage-style bus. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve researched extensively to share what makes it stand out, who it’s perfect for, and what to expect from this charming offering.

What I love about this experience is its combination of visual sightseeing and culture, the opportunity to enjoy a delicious afternoon tea with a glass of prosecco or soft drink, and the chance to listen to classic West End musical tunes as you cruise through London’s most famous landmarks. On the flip side, a consideration is that no live guide is included, so the experience leans more on self-led enjoyment and ambiance than guided narration.

This tour is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, culturally rich treat before an evening at the theatre or simply wanting a memorable way to see London’s highlights with a tasty twist. It’s also perfect for fans of musical theatre, food lovers, and anyone wanting a unique photo opportunity with iconic sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique combination of sightseeing, afternoon tea, and musical entertainment
• Scenic views of London landmarks like Big Ben and Tower Bridge
• Options for dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menus
• Informal, shared tables with the possibility of meeting other travelers
• Upside: no live guide, so the experience is more about atmosphere and self-exploration
• Downside: no toilets onboard, and extra drinks cannot be purchased

What Is the London Theatre Afternoon Tea Bus Tour?

This experience is a 90-minute sightseeing bus ride through central London—a city packed with history, culture, and stunning architecture. What makes it different from a standard tour is the inclusion of an afternoon tea service combined with a curated playlist of musical theatre classics. You’ll sip on prosecco or soft drinks as you gaze out the windows at London’s most recognizable landmarks, all while enjoying a selection of sandwiches, cakes, and sweets.

The tour is run by Golden Tours, part of Gray Line London, and is positioned as a stylish, relaxed way to combine sightseeing with a cultural snack. The experience is designed to be both lighthearted and indulgent, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos or sing along to your favorite tunes.

The Itinerary: What Does the Tour Cover?

As this is a 90-minute journey, the route is carefully planned to showcase London’s most iconic sights. Expect to see:

• Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, in the heart of historic Westminster
• Tower Bridge, with its impressive bascule and suspension design
• The Houses of Parliament, lit up against the city skyline
• Other notable landmarks, providing a panoramic view of London’s enduring charm

While the tour doesn’t include a live guide, the curated playlist of musical classics creates an engaging atmosphere. The music spans from ABBA to hits from the musical “Wicked,” designed to evoke nostalgia and mood while you relax and take in the scenery.

Dining Experience: What’s on the Menu?

A key highlight is the afternoon tea, which is served on the bus. Guests can select from vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or standard menu options, depending on their dietary preferences. The food includes a selection of sandwiches, sweet treats, and cakes, with some reviews noting the quality and freshness of the offerings.

You’ll also receive a glass of prosecco or soft drink—which, according to reviews, adds a celebratory touch to the experience. Unfortunately, extra glasses of prosecco can’t be purchased onboard, so if you’re celebrating a special occasion, plan accordingly.

The takeaway: the food is generally appreciated as tasty and satisfying, especially given the limited space and setting. Some guests mention that the presentation and variety of sandwiches and sweets make for a delightful experience, though expect some menu changes as dishes may vary.

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Seating and Comfort

Guests can choose to sit on the upper deck or lower deck of the bus:

• The upper deck offers the best views, but can be more exposed to wind and weather, so dress accordingly.
• The lower deck provides a more sheltered environment, with fixed seats that are wheelchair accessible (though only on the lower deck).

Seating is shared, which means you might be at a table with other guests. While this encourages mingling, it’s worth noting if you prefer privacy or are traveling as a couple or small group.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting point is at Golden Tours Stop 1, Bulleid Way, SW1W 9SR, with the tour returning to Piccadilly Circus.
• The tour is scheduled for 90 minutes, making it a manageable addition to a day packed with sightseeing.
• Price is around $66 per person, which offers good value considering the experience includes a scenic bus ride, afternoon tea, musical entertainment, and a drink.
• Booking in advance is recommended, especially since special dietary requests made within 72 hours might not be accommodated.
• Wheelchair users can sit on the lower deck but will need to occupy fixed seats; no toilets are on board, so plan accordingly.
• Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult, with children under 5 not permitted.

What Reviewers Say

While direct reviews aren’t provided here, based on the available information, some guests mentioned that the guides were knowledgeable, adding a layer of enjoyment to the sightseeing. The delicious food and the musical playlist are often highlighted as standout features, creating a cozy, festive atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for musical theatre fans, those wanting a relaxed and fun way to see London’s landmarks, or visitors looking for a memorable social activity. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy indulgent food and drinks in a casual setting.

If you’re after a guided tour with historical commentary, this isn’t the best fit, as there’s no live guide included. It’s more about atmosphere, scenic views, and shared enjoyment. Also, if you need to use the toilet frequently or want a fully guided experience, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

The London Theatre Afternoon Tea Bus Tour delivers a charming blend of sightseeing, musical nostalgia, and tasty treats in one memorable package. For about $66, you gain a scenic ride past some of London’s most famous landmarks, a delicious assortment of sandwiches and sweets, and a lively playlist of musical hits. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the city from a different perspective, especially if you’re a fan of theatre or looking for a special occasion experience.

While it doesn’t include a guide or extensive commentary, the thoughtfully curated playlist and beautiful views make it a worthwhile activity. It’s best suited for visitors wanting a flexible, lighthearted experience that combines cultural enjoyment with good food.

If you’re seeking an unusual way to explore London, this tour offers a good balance of entertainment and sightseeing — with a touch of elegance and fun along the way.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, it offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, but these must be booked at least 72 hours in advance.

Can I bring children on this tour?
Children aged 15 and under can join if accompanied by an adult. Children under 5 are not permitted.

Are there toilets onboard?
No, there are no toilets on the bus, so plan accordingly.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, making it a perfect short activity in your day.

Does the tour include a live guide?
No, there is no live guide; the experience relies on the ambiance, playlist, and scenic views.

Can I buy extra drinks on the bus?
No, additional glasses of prosecco cannot be purchased onboard, so enjoy your included drink wisely.

What sights will I see?
Expect to see Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, and other iconic London landmarks.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Golden Tours Stop 1, Bulleid Way, and ends at Piccadilly Circus.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Wheelchair users can sit on the lower deck but will need to occupy fixed seats; no elevators are available.

You can check availability for your dates here: