The afternoon tea bus combines two London staples: a ride on a vintage double-decker and a traditional high tea. The operator runs a 1960s Routemaster bus,, which leaves from Victoria Coach Station on Buckingham Palace Road and loops through the centre of London in about one hour and twenty-five minutes. Along the way it passes Big Ben, Harrods, Marble Arch and Trafalgar Square, with prerecorded commentary and music, and the booking page describes these as passing-by sights with short stops rather than a stopping tour. Tea or coffee is served with a tiered selection of sandwiches, cakes and pastries prepared by the operator's bakery. The booking page carries a 4.4 rating from more than 2,100 reviews. It is a sociable, slightly theatrical experience that suits birthdays, hen parties, family treats and visitors who want a relaxed way to see the main sights without walking.
Be realistic about the format. The tour is a seated ride, not a sightseeing stop-off, and the food is the centrepiece. Dietary options, namely vegetarian, pescatarian, vegan and gluten-free, must be pre-booked, and nut allergies are not catered for. The bus seats 32 or 44 depending on the vehicle, and the operator lists it as not wheelchair accessible and without a toilet, so plan a stop before boarding. The seating is compact, so the experience is cosy rather than spacious, and the upper deck views are the main draw.
Booking terms are strict. The booking page says the experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason, so confirm your date and party size before you pay. Buses leave from the junction near Elizabeth Bridge at Victoria Coach Station, and advises checking gate information inside the station, so arrive well ahead and allow time to find the bus. A mobile ticket is used. The route and timing can be affected by London traffic, so treat the sights as a pleasant backdrop rather than a precise itinerary.
This is a good fit for visitors who want afternoon tea without the formality and cost of a grand hotel, and for families with children who will enjoy the bus more than a hushed tea room. It is less suited to travellers who want a deep or quiet experience, or to those who prefer to spend an afternoon walking.
Pair it with a visit to the Rubens at the Palace or the Royal Parks for a full Victoria afternoon. The honest summary is that it is a fun, photogenic novelty with good reviews, best enjoyed with the right group and a sense of humour.
What to expect
The experience
A seated loop of central London on a vintage double-decker, with tea or coffee, sandwiches, cakes and pastries and prerecorded commentary.
Best time
Choose a slot that suits your meal pattern; it is a light tea rather than a full meal.
How long
About one hour twenty-five minutes.
Tips
Pre-book dietary options, note that nut allergies are not catered for, use the toilet before boarding, and arrive early at Victoria Coach Station to find the gate.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Celebrations, family treats and visitors who want tea and sightseeing in one.
- Families
- Fun for children who like buses; check seating and food needs in advance.
- Couples
- A playful, photogenic date or birthday treat.
- Pair with
- Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace area and a walk through Westminster.
- Time needed
- Under two hours including boarding.
Good questions
Where does the bus depart?+
Victoria Coach Station, 164 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9TP, near the Elizabeth Bridge junction. Check gate information inside the station.
What is the route?+
A loop passing Big Ben, Harrods, Marble Arch and Trafalgar Square, as passing-by sights with short stops, before returning to the start.
What food is served?+
Tea or coffee with sandwiches, cakes and pastries. Vegetarian, pescatarian, vegan and gluten-free options must be pre-booked.
Is the bus accessible?+
No, the operator lists it as not wheelchair accessible and without a toilet.
Can I get a refund?+
The experience is listed as non-refundable and cannot be changed.
