London: Afternoon Tea Bus & Buckingham Palace Entry Option

Imagine cruising through London’s bustling streets, your favorite tunes softly playing, while an expert guide shares fascinating stories. Now, add the aroma of freshly prepared afternoon tea and the chance to peek inside Buckingham Palace’s lavish state rooms. That’s what the London: Afternoon Tea Bus & Buckingham Palace Entry offers—a delightful blend of sightseeing, comfort, and a taste of royal life, all wrapped into a flexible package.

What I love about this experience is the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of London from a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, combined with the personal touch of a live guide. The onboard chef’s seasonal afternoon tea menu features everything from delicate finger sandwiches to indulgent cakes, which makes the ride feel both indulgent and authentic. Plus, the option to upgrade seats and add a touch of bubbly elevates the experience, perfect for special occasions or just a treat for yourself.

A small caveat is that, depending on traffic, the tour may last slightly less or more than the advertised 90 minutes, so it’s wise to check your timing if you’re on a tight schedule. Also, keep in mind that children under 5 aren’t permitted, which is common for these types of tours, but worth noting if you’re traveling with little ones. This experience strikes a good balance between sightseeing, comfort, and a touch of luxury.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Unique combination of a scenic bus tour and afternoon tea elevates your sightseeing experience.
• Expert live guides bring stories of London to life, making each landmark more meaningful.
• Onboard chef-prepared menu provides a fresh, seasonal selection of sandwiches, cakes, and scones.
• Optional Buckingham Palace entry allows a peek inside the royal residence, usually available July to September.
• Premium seating options on the upper deck offer better views and a more immersive experience.
• The tour includes a practical souvenir travel cup to remember your day.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour begins at Evan Evans Tours’ starting point, where you’ll step onto a comfortable, branded bus equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and USB charges. From there, your guide—likely a knowledgeable local—will steer you past London’s most iconic sights, weaving in stories and historical tidbits that breathe life into the landmarks.

Big Ben and the London Eye are highlights that you’ll see from the bus, passing by quickly but with enough time to appreciate their grandeur. The tour makes short stops at Somerset House, Fleet Street, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Tower Bridge, all from the bus window, with about a 10-minute pause at each to snap photos or simply take in the view.

One of the most engaging parts is the passage along the River Thames, where you can enjoy spectacular views of HMS Belfast, the Tower of London, and the London skyline. The guide’s storytelling turns this into a vivid walk through history, architecture, and royal gossip.

The final stops include Westminster Abbey and a leisurely finish at Victoria train station, making it a convenient point to continue exploring or catch your next train. The entire journey, depending on traffic, lasts around 90 minutes, but could extend up to 4 hours if you opt for the full experience, including Buckingham Palace.

The Afternoon Tea: A Culinary Highlight

What makes this experience particularly special is the onboard afternoon tea. The menu features a well-curated selection of sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of cakes and pastries. For those with dietary preferences, vegan and gluten-free options are available, such as spiced gingerbread cake and vegan feta sandwiches.

The freshly baked scones are a real treat—light, flaky, and served with generous dollops of cream and jam. The hot beverages include a variety of teas, from traditional English Breakfast to herbal infusions, along with Lavazza coffee options and even hot chocolate. If you choose the Prosecco upgrade, you’ll enjoy a 20 cl glass of bubbly, adding a festive touch.

The onboard chef prepares the menu fresh, which distinguishes this from typical bus tours. The branded travel cup makes a nice souvenir, and the entire experience feels like a leisurely afternoon in a cozy café, but with the bonus of sightseeing.

Inside Buckingham Palace: A Royal Glimpse (Seasonal)

One of the standout options is the entry to Buckingham Palace’s State Apartments, available from July to September. This is a rare opportunity to see the lavish rooms used by the British royal family, with intricate furnishings, grand chandeliers, and historic artwork.

Having the chance to step inside this iconic residence gives an added layer of prestige to your day. The guide will give context and insights into royal life, making the visit more meaningful. Note that this option must be selected in advance and is only available seasonally, so plan accordingly if this is a priority.

Who Will Really Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who appreciate a blend of sightseeing and comfort. If you’re short on time but want to see many landmarks, this tour packs a lot into a relatively short period. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting an overview with a touch of luxury.

Travelers who love food and drink will find the onboard afternoon tea a highlight—especially if you enjoy traditional treats or want a cozy break amid sightseeing. The optional royal palace visit adds a special element of exclusivity, appealing to those interested in British royalty or seeking a memorable highlight.

If you’re traveling with older children or adults who enjoy stories and scenic views, this is a good choice. However, families with young children under five will need to look elsewhere, as this tour isn’t suitable for very small children.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

When evaluating the price, consider what you’re getting: a panoramic tour of London, an expert guide, freshly prepared afternoon tea, and the option to visit Buckingham Palace—all in one package. The seating upgrades and bubbly are optional but can add a special touch if you’re celebrating.

While it might seem a bit pricier than a standard bus tour, the authentic food, seasonal menu, and luxury touches justify the cost for many. Plus, the convenience of combination sightseeing and dining—without the hassle of managing multiple bookings—adds a lot of value.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Check availability early, especially if you want the Buckingham Palace option, as it’s seasonal.
• Arrive a bit early to settle into premium seats or choose your preferred deck.
• Remember, children under 5 aren’t permitted, so plan accordingly.
• If you have dietary needs, notify the tour provider at least 72 hours in advance.
• The tour lasts around 90 minutes, but be prepared for slight variations based on traffic.
• For those with accessibility needs, the bus offers a fully wheelchair accessible lower deck—but check availability ahead of time.
• For a more immersive experience, consider opting for premium seats on the upper deck.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking to combine sightseeing with a relaxed, comfortable meal. It’s ideal for those celebrating special occasions, thanks to its optional upgrades and royal connection.

If you’re interested in London’s landmarks but prefer not to stand in line or walk long distances, this tour offers a stress-free way to see the city. It also suits history buffs who enjoy storytelling, as the guide’s insights make the landmarks come alive.

Final Thoughts

The London Afternoon Tea Bus & Buckingham Palace Entry is a well-rounded experience that balances scenic views, engaging storytelling, and delicious food. It offers a refreshing alternative to typical sightseeing tours, especially if you crave comfort and a touch of elegance.

While it’s not the cheapest way to explore London, the combination of luxury food, expert guidance, and seasonal royal access makes it a worthwhile splurge for those who want more than just a quick glance at the city.

If you’re visiting London for the first time and want a memorable, all-in-one experience, this tour is a smart choice. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy learning stories behind the landmarks while indulging in a traditional afternoon tea—an authentic twist on sightseeing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 are not permitted on this tour, so it’s best suited for older kids, teenagers, or adults.

Can I book the Buckingham Palace entry?
Yes, but you need to select the “with Buckingham Palace entry” option at the time of booking, as it’s seasonal and limited.

What is included in the afternoon tea menu?
The menu features a selection of sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, and a variety of cakes and pastries. Vegan and gluten-free options are available.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you can enjoy a range of hot beverages (teas, coffee, hot chocolate) and cold drinks such as water, juice, or prosecco (if pre-ordered).

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the bus has a fully wheelchair accessible lower deck, but advance contact is recommended to ensure availability.

How long does the tour last?
Typically around 90 minutes, but it can extend up to 4 hours if you include the full royal palace visit and extra options.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
Just arrive a little early to choose your preferred seat and notify the provider of any dietary restrictions 72 hours in advance.

In the end, this tour delivers a charming snapshot of London—beautiful sights, engaging stories, and a delicious treat—wrapped into one delightful package. It’s a perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your sightseeing day, especially if you enjoy a blend of comfort, culture, and cuisine.