The 7 Best London Tea Bus Tours (2025 Reviews)

London tea bus tours allow you to get up and personal with a classic British tradition, while providing unforgettable sightseeing.

Imagine sipping Earl Grey and nibbling scones as you cruise past Big Ben and Buckingham Palace — all from the upper deck of a vintage Routemaster. It’s a tour that really makes you feel special, the tea and snacks taste good, and it’s one of the best ways to spend a couple of hours.

These rolling tearooms are perfect for visitors who want to see the city without skipping the scones. They’re also just one of many unique London experiences you won’t soon forget — especially when paired with helpful tips like this guide to finding free public toilets in London, which definitely comes in handy after the tea.

Below you’ll find our top 3 picks, followed by full reviews of all 7 tea tours worth booking — including themed rides, scenic views, and proper British indulgence.

Let’s take a seat.

Best Afternoon Tea Bus in London

Compare Top Tours: London: Great British Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, London: Gin and Afternoon Tea Bus Tour with Audio Guide, and Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus in London

London: Great British Afternoon Tea Bus Tour	London: Gin and Afternoon Tea Bus Tour with Audio Guide	Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus in London
Duration: 90 minutes	Duration: 90 minutes	Duration: 1.5 hours
Pickup: Not included	Pickup: Not included	Pickup: Not included
Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours	Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours	Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours
Includes: Classic afternoon tea, London landmarks, vintage Routemaster bus	Includes: Afternoon tea with gin pairing, panoramic views, audio guide	Includes: Afternoon tea, themed decor, central London sights
Traditional tea experience with iconic views	Perfect blend of sightseeing and gin indulgence	Stylish bus + themed elegance for all ages
👉 Reserve Your Spot!	👉 Reserve Your Spot!	👉 Reserve Your Spot!

7 Best Tea Bus London Tours

• Tour 1: London: Great British Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
• Tour 2: London: Gin and Afternoon Tea Bus Tour with Audio Guide
• Tour 3: Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus in London
• Tour 4: London: Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus Tour & Audio Guide
• Tour 5: London: Classic Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
• Tour 6: London Afternoon Tea Bus with Panoramic Tour
• Tour 7: London: Peppa Pig Afternoon Tea Bus Tour with Audio Guide

The English Tea Bus (2025 Reviews)

Tour 1: London: Great British Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

✅ Meeting Point: Victoria Coach Station or Trafalgar Square (select at booking)
✅ Departure Time: Timed departures daily (e.g. 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:30 PM)
✅ Duration: 1.5 hours
✅ Guide: Onboard host, pre-recorded audio commentary
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes — full refund up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Afternoon tea (scones, sandwiches, cakes), tea or coffee, double-decker Routemaster sightseeing ride

You know, we’ve thought about a double-decker bus ride around London, it seemed to be the thing to do, and we also thought about enjoying the classic English experience of tea and scones, and then we noticed this.

We booked the London: Great British Afternoon Tea Bus Tour for something whimsical — and it turned out to be as delightful as it sounds. You board a classic red Routemaster, settle in with bone china and linen napkins, and begin nibbling finger sandwiches while Big Ben rolls past the window.

Ever wondered what a Routemaster bus is? Because I know you have – it’s just one of those classic red double-deckers you see in old London photos.

This type first hit the streets in the 1950s, and while thousands once rumbled through the city, today there’s just a handful used for historic tours, which are usually around 60 years old and still going strong with a bit of TLC.

Back to the tour, it’s a strange and wonderful blend of sightseeing and slow eating. Between bites of Victoria sponge, we sipped English Breakfast and snapped photos of Westminster, Hyde Park, and Buckingham Palace.

The London: Great British Afternoon Tea Bus Tour was smooth and surprisingly relaxing, with staff quietly topping up cups and pointing out key sights through the windows.

This isn’t a deep historical dive — it’s a vibe. Quirky, indulgent, and joyfully British. It’s a perfect way to combine teatime with light sightseeing, especially for visitors short on time or big on charm.

Tour 2: London: Gin and Afternoon Tea Bus Tour with Audio Guide

✅ Meeting Point: Victoria Coach Station, London SW1W 9TN
✅ Departure Time: Timed departures daily (e.g. 12:30 PM, 3:30 PM)
✅ Duration: 90 minutes
✅ Guide: Audio guide onboard
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes — full refund up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Afternoon tea with cakes and sandwiches, three Slingsby Gin cocktails, panoramic sightseeing, vintage Routemaster bus

We were looking for something indulgent but not too serious — and the London: Gin and Afternoon Tea Bus Tour with Audio Guide hit that sweet spot.

It’s playful, a little boozy, and delightfully scenic. You sip your way through three well-crafted gin cocktails while London’s landmarks pass by outside the windows of a double-decker bus.

The afternoon tea service was surprisingly generous — cucumber and salmon sandwiches, flaky scones with clotted cream, and miniature cakes that vanished almost too quickly.

Everything was neatly presented on three-tier trays, and the table settings were secure and stylish, even while the bus gently rolled along. I mean, how English is that cucumber and salmon sandwiches with scones and cream while riding on a double-decker red bus through the heart of London, it hit all the spots.

The audio commentary was subtle — not too heavy on history, but just enough to orient you and keep things interesting between bites.

Most of us were chatting and giggling more than listening, and that’s exactly what made it fun. It’s not a lecture. It’s not a rigid tour. It’s a moving cocktail lounge with tea and tiered sweets and Tower Bridge in the background.

This ride is perfect for birthdays, couples on a lighthearted date, or friends who want to toast London without walking miles. If you want traditional tea with a twist (and a bit of a buzz), this is your ride.

Tour 3: Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus in London

✅ Meeting Point: Victoria Coach Station or Trafalgar Square (selectable during booking)
✅ Departure Time: Several timed options daily (e.g. 12:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM)
✅ Duration: 90 minutes
✅ Guide: Pre-recorded audio commentary onboard
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes — full refund up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Afternoon tea with pastries and sandwiches (fresh from a local bakery), sightseeing ride on a vintage Routemaster bus, commentary on London landmarks

We booked Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus in London for the charm of a moving tea room — and it delivered on every detail. From the moment we boarded the restored 1960s Routemaster bus, we were immersed in the nostalgia of London’s red double-decker heritage, but with a distinctly elegant twist.

So, like me, you’re probably wondering why “Brigid”? Because she’s London’s answer to Barbie — but with more sass, more tea, and definitely more pink. Named after Bridget Jones, the beloved rom-com heroine, this double-decker bus tea experience is all about cheeky charm and girly fun.

Think pastel pink decor, flutes, sweet treats, and city views — the perfect blend of British nostalgia and playful glam. It’s like stepping into a Bridget Jones scene in the Barbie movie, but with cupcakes.

Staff welcomed us warmly and showed us to our table, already set with three-tiered stands of fresh pastries and finger sandwiches prepared by a local bakery.

Whether you sit on the top or lower deck, the views are gorgeous — and the route itself is a greatest-hits tour of London: Big Ben, Marble Arch, Hyde Park, Harrods, Knightsbridge, and Trafalgar Square all glide past your window.

The audio commentary is light but informative, giving just enough history without overpowering the conversation or the clink of teacups. What makes this experience stand out is the balance — you’re sightseeing, yes, but it’s softened by sweet bites, warm sips, and slow rolls through the city’s heart.

It’s whimsical, it’s delicious, and it’s absolutely one of the most London things you can do — especially if you’re craving tradition with a moving twist.

It’s truly Barbie meeting London Transport, and a delightful afternoon tea.

Tour 4: London: Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus Tour & Audio Guide

✅ Meeting Point: Trafalgar Square departure
✅ Departure Time: Typically 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM
✅ Duration: 90 minutes
✅ Guide: Audio and video narration by Paddington and Mrs. Bird
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes — full refund up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Themed afternoon tea with savories, cakes, scones, unlimited tea/coffee/hot chocolate, sightseeing aboard a Routemaster bus

We joined the London: Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus Tour & Audio Guide as a treat for the kids — and honestly, the adults were just as enchanted. From the moment we boarded the red Routemaster at Trafalgar Square, we were immersed in the world of Paddington, complete with a delightful narration by the bear himself and Mrs. Bird.

As the bus rolled past Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, and Hyde Park, we were served a beautifully themed afternoon tea: little marmalade-inspired cakes, neatly cut finger sandwiches, and warm scones with jam and clotted cream. Unlimited tea, coffee, and hot chocolate flowed freely, and the staff was patient, friendly, and perfectly in tune with the family vibe.

The bus was decorated with Paddington touches that charmed everyone — from paw-print details to playful nods in the table settings. The audio and video guide felt like a storybook brought to life, with just enough sightseeing facts sprinkled between bear mischief and London trivia.

It’s a fantastic choice for visitors with children, nostalgic grown-ups, or anyone who appreciates a tour that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Sweet, silly, and city-savvy — it’s one of the most lovable tea experiences in town.

Tour 5: London: Classic Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

✅ Meeting Point: Trafalgar Square or Victoria Coach Station
✅ Departure Time: Timed options daily (e.g. 12:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM)
✅ Duration: 90 minutes
✅ Guide: English audio guide onboard
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes — full refund up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Afternoon tea (cakes, pastries, sandwiches), hot drinks, guided Routemaster bus tour, onboard music

There’s something deeply British — and deeply relaxing — about taking tea while watching the city slide by your window. We booked the London: Classic Afternoon Tea Bus Tour for a midweek treat and ended up with one of our favorite views of London… served with cake.

The food was spot-on: fresh scones, delicate pastries, and crustless sandwiches delivered with just the right level of ceremony. The tea flowed freely (though you could opt for coffee or hot chocolate), and the gentle background music made it feel like a mobile tearoom. Everything was neatly presented and surprisingly stable — even over London cobblestones.

But the real joy was the route. You pass Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Hyde Park, Nelson’s Column, and the Royal Albert Hall — all while seated upstairs in a vintage double-decker. The recorded guide added just enough commentary to orient you, but never intruded on the conversation or the sense of calm.

This tour doesn’t try to be flashy. It’s simple, smooth, and wonderfully British. Whether you’re with your mum, your partner, or a group of friends, it’s a laid-back way to see the city with a scone in one hand and your camera in the other.

Tour 6: London Afternoon Tea Bus with Panoramic Tour

✅ Meeting Point: Golden Tours Office, Bulleid Way, Victoria
✅ Departure Time: Afternoon slots (typically 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM)
✅ Duration: 90 minutes
✅ Guide: Panoramic bus tour with recorded commentary
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes — full refund up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Afternoon tea with sandwiches, desserts, and scones, hot drinks, panoramic window seating, sightseeing of major landmarks

The London Afternoon Tea Bus with Panoramic Tour surprised us with just how polished it was. From the moment we stepped aboard the upper deck, the floor-to-ceiling glass made it feel like we were inside a snow globe filled with London’s greatest landmarks — minus the chill and the walking.

The food leaned into contemporary British flair. Our sandwich selection ranged from falafel and hummus to salmon with cream cheese. It was followed by pastel-hued pastries, warm mini scones, and more than one refill of hot tea (or coffee, if preferred). The pace was perfect — long enough to unwind but not so long that it dragged.

The real standout is the route: Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, Piccadilly Circus, and Trafalgar Square all float past your table. The commentary is pre-recorded but optional, so if you just want to relax and chat, nothing interrupts the experience.

Staff were professional but upbeat — checking in just often enough to feel attentive, never overbearing. It’s a great pick if you want elegant sightseeing without the need for walking shoes. Or if you just want to enjoy cake while pretending you live in a moving glass salon.

Tour 7: London: Peppa Pig Afternoon Tea Bus Tour with Audio Guide

✅ Meeting Point: Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 1LA
✅ Departure Time: Timed afternoon departures (e.g. 12:15 PM, 2:45 PM)
✅ Duration: 90 minutes
✅ Guide: Peppa Pig–themed audio and video on personal tablets
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes — full refund up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Routemaster bus tour, Peppa Pig animated guide, singalong songs, afternoon tea with sweet and savory treats, hot drinks, soft drinks for kids

We booked the London: Peppa Pig Afternoon Tea Bus Tour with Audio Guide with modest expectations — and were blown away by how immersive, polished, and joyfully chaotic it turned out to be. It’s not just a tea party on wheels — it’s a full-blown Peppa Pig experience with themed songs, interactive storytelling, and enough visual candy to keep young passengers utterly transfixed.

The built-in tablets play a Peppa-narrated tour through London with singalong music and cheerful animations. The route is packed with landmarks — Big Ben, Piccadilly Circus, and Westminster fly by as you sip tea and try to stop your child from clapping frosting into their hair. It’s messy. It’s loud. It’s wonderful.

The tea itself is surprisingly grown-up friendly. Scones with jam and cream, mini cakes, and finger sandwiches are served neatly, and there’s plenty of tea, coffee, and hot chocolate. Kids get soft drinks, and the staff is impressively patient and upbeat throughout.

This is the kind of experience kids will talk about for months. And for parents? It’s a moment of shared silliness — high tea meets preschool fandom with a view.

FAQs (The 7 Best London Tea Bus Tours (2025 Reviews))

1. Are London tea bus tours suitable for children?
Yes — several tours, like the Paddington Bear and Peppa Pig options, are specifically designed for kids. Most others welcome children, though standard tea options may feel more adult-focused.

2. Do I need to choose a specific departure point when booking?
Yes — most tours offer a choice between Victoria Coach Station and Trafalgar Square. Your boarding point will be confirmed at checkout, so read the options carefully.

3. What’s included in a typical tea bus menu?
All tours include traditional British afternoon tea: finger sandwiches, mini cakes or pastries, and warm scones with clotted cream and jam. Some tours include themed extras like gin cocktails or Peppa-shaped biscuits.

4. Are there vegetarian or dietary options available?
Most tea bus providers offer vegetarian options and may accommodate gluten-free or dairy-free needs. However, dietary preferences must be requested during booking.

5. Can I get off the bus at landmarks?
No — tea buses are panoramic sightseeing experiences. You’ll pass landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey, but there are no hop-on/hop-off stops.

6. Is there narration or a tour guide on board?
Yes — most buses include pre-recorded audio commentary, while themed tours offer storytelling through characters like Paddington or Peppa Pig.

7. Do the buses have toilets on board?
No — most vintage Routemaster buses do not have restrooms onboard. Be sure to plan a restroom stop before boarding.

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501Places Editor’s Ranking: London: Great British Afternoon Tea Bus Tour