London Tootbus Bar Bus Sunset Tour with Drinks

Driving through London’s streets on a bright double-decker bus with a drink in hand sounds like a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The London Tootbus Bar Bus Sunset Tour with Drinks offers exactly that—an approximately 90-minute journey through some of the city’s most famous landmarks, all from the comfort of an open-top, eco-friendly bus. For $50.75 per person, this tour combines iconic sights with a lively, social atmosphere, making it a popular choice—booked on average 63 days in advance and recommended by 92% of travelers.

What I particularly appreciate about this experience is how it blends spectacular views of London’s skyline with the ease of not having to navigate or climb around crowded streets. Plus, enjoying a choice of drinks, from prosecco to winter seasonal cocktails, while passing Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus creates a sense of relaxed luxury. That said, with just an hour and a half, it’s a quick glimpse rather than an in-depth exploration, so I’d suggest it as a fun addition to your London trip rather than a standalone day activity.

Two aspects stand out to me: the fantastic panoramic views that can’t be replicated from rooftop bars due to the bus’s height and open design, and the knowledgeable onboard guides who keep the commentary lively and informative—some reviews even mention guides like Charlie who really elevates the experience. The only slight consideration is that you’ll want to arrive a bit early to get a good spot, especially during peak season when the bus is most popular, and to remember that it’s a short one-and-a-half-hour tour, so plan accordingly if you’re aiming to see everything.

Key Points

• Unbeatable views from an open-top, eco-friendly double-decker bus that passes major landmarks.
• Relaxed atmosphere with music, floral decorations, and a diverse drink menu, including festive options.
• Convenient: Wi-Fi, restroom onboard, and a mobile app make navigation and city exploration easier.
• Ideal for social groups or travelers looking for a fun way to see London’s sights with drinks in hand.
• Limited food options: this is primarily a sightseeing and drinking experience—plan to eat before or after.
• Booking well in advance is recommended, especially during peak times, to secure a spot.

In-Depth Review of the Tootbus Bar Bus Sunset Tour

What makes this experience stand out?

The idea of combining sightseeing with a leisurely drink in hand is a big selling point. While London is famous for its historic landmarks and bustling streets, standing atop an open-top bus offers a fresh, unobstructed perspective of the cityscape. The floral decorations and music contribute to an Instagram-worthy vibe—perfect for snapping pictures and sharing your trip moments.

The tour is run aboard an eco-friendly double-decker bus which adds a modern, responsible touch—a small but appreciated detail in today’s travel world. The mobile ticket system makes booking straightforward, and the onboard Wi-Fi ensures you can Google a bit about landmarks or share your photos instantly.

The itinerary in detail

The tour starts centrally, promising one of the most exciting views—a flight up on the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel, the London Eye. You’ll get up close to this giant wheel, which soars 135 meters above the city. The experience of seeing iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament from above is quite special, especially at sunset when the city lights flicker on.

Next, the bus heads towards the Tower of London, where you can admire the White Tower and catch some of the infamous tales of medieval intrigue told by the guides (some reviews call out guides like Charlie for doing a fantastic job). Passing the Tower gives you a sense of London’s layered history, especially imagining the stories of prisoners, famous Heads, and even a polar bear kept within its walls.

The Houses of Parliament and Elizabeth Tower are next, giving you a chance to see the famous clock tower—Big Ben—up close without the crowds of daytime visitors. Although you won’t be able to go inside, the views passing by at dusk are quite picturesque.

Finally, the tour includes a glimpse of St. Paul’s Cathedral, which has played a central role in many major ceremonies. From the bus, the views make it feel grand and close, even from a distance.

What travelers love

Numerous reviews emphasize the great guide work—”Charlie was such a great guide”—which suggests that the onboard narration adds value, making the experience more engaging and educational. Passengers also praise the stunning views, noting how different and beautiful the city looks from the bus. The relaxed, social atmosphere with music and floral decor makes it feel more like a party on wheels than a typical city tour.

Practical considerations

Since the tour includes alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, Wi-Fi, and restrooms, it’s quite comfortable for the duration. However, it’s worth noting that food isn’t included, so plan to eat beforehand or afterward. The price of $50.75 per person seems reasonable for the combination of sights, drinks, and relaxed vibe—considering London’s costs, it offers good value for a quick, scenic evening.

During peak booking times, travelers mention the importance of arriving early and securing a good spot, especially when the bus is busy. Also, keep in mind that you must be over 18 to consume alcohol, and photo identification is required, which is standard practice for alcohol service.

Who is this experience best suited for?

This tour works well for groups of friends, couples, or anyone wanting a laid-back way to enjoy London’s skyline. It’s not ideal for those seeking in-depth exploration of sights but is perfect for a quick, fun, and social evening. It’s especially suited for people who want to combine sightseeing with a few drinks without the fuss of navigating crowded streets or booking multiple tickets.

Final thoughts

The Tootbus Bar Bus Sunset Tour offers a unique view of London with a lively, social twist. Its combination of iconic sights, scenic views, and relaxed ambiance makes it a memorable addition to your trip. The guided commentary and onboard amenities enhance its comfort and educational value, while the panoramic vistas provide ample photo opportunities.

If you’re looking for a flexible, fun way to see the city from a new angle, and enjoy some drinks in a lively setting, this experience is worth considering. Keep in mind, it’s a brief tour—perfect as a relaxed evening activity—so it pairs well with other daytime explorations.

The tour is a solid choice for those who appreciate good views, friendly guides, and a little bit of indulgence without the hassle.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all age groups?
You must be over 18 to drink alcohol, but the tour itself is generally open to most travelers who are comfortable on a bus. The focus on views and social drinks makes it perfect for adults and groups.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable window for an evening activity without feeling rushed.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking around 2 months ahead is typical, as the tour is popular, especially during peak seasons.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID for alcohol verification, a camera for photos, and perhaps a light jacket if the weather is chilly at sunset. The bus has Wi-Fi and restrooms onboard, increasing comfort during the ride.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the ticket includes various drinks like prosecco, rosé, gin and tonic, beer, and soft drinks, with seasonal winter drinks available as well.

Can I get off the bus at any point?
This is a guided tour that follows a set route and duration; it does not include stops along the way.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations within that window are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

This tour strikes a balance between sightseeing, socializing, and enjoying London’s skyline, making it a clever choice for those who want to unwind with a drink and fantastic views. Whether you’re celebrating, sharing with friends, or just looking for a memorable way to see the city, this experience offers genuine value and a little bit of fun.