London: Children’s Open Top Bus Tour

Exploring London with children can sometimes feel like a challenge—trying to balance sight-seeing with keeping little ones entertained. This Children’s Open Top Bus Tour from Tootbus promises a lively, engaging way for kids aged 6 to 12 to see the city’s most famous sights without the fuss. It’s a 45-minute ride packed with storytelling, fun facts, and a chance for children to get a glimpse of London’s iconic landmarks from the comfort of a bright, open-deck bus.

What we love about this experience is how it manages to blend education with entertainment. The live kid-friendly commentary keeps children interested, while the stunning views of landmarks like the London Eye and Big Ben keep everyone captivated. The added bonus of self-guided walking tours via the Tootbus app means this isn’t just a quick bus ride—it’s part of a broader, flexible exploration of London. One of the best parts? During the Easter season, there’s a special Easter Kids Tour with themed decorations and storytelling, making it perfect for seasonal visits.

That said, a consideration worth noting is that the guide’s microphone sometimes wasn’t crystal clear, which some reviews pointed out. If you have very young children or hearing difficulties, this might be a minor issue. This tour is ideal for families seeking a safe, manageable way to see London’s highlights while keeping kids engaged. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a snapshot of the city’s top sights in a fun, relaxed format.

Who would love this tour?

Families with young children, first-time visitors wanting a quick overview, or those looking for a playful way to introduce kids to London’s famous sights will find great value here. It’s perfect for a short, entertaining stop during a busy sightseeing day or as a fun standalone activity.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Kid-friendly commentary: Engaging stories make famous landmarks fun and memorable.
• Flexible self-guided options: The Tootbus app offers walking tours and real-time tracking.
• Short but sweet: A 45-minute ride ensures kids remain interested without getting bored.
• Affordable price: At approximately $22.63 per person, it offers good value for a London experience.
• Seasonal themes: Special Easter tours add a festive twist from April 5-21.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating more families.

The Full Breakdown: What to Expect from London’s Kids’ Open Top Bus Tour

This hop-on, hop-off style bus tour is designed with children in mind but offers enough appeal to entertain the whole family. It departs from 24 Royal Opera Arcade, conveniently located on Charles II Street, just a short walk from central London’s key attractions.

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at a well-known spot, making it easy for families to find, especially if you download the Tootbus app ahead of time. The 45-minute non-stop ride is timed perfectly—not too long to lose little ones’ attention, but long enough to cover several major landmarks.

The Route and Landmarks

During the ride, you’ll pass some of London’s most recognizable sights, including the London Eye, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Pall Mall, Piccadilly Circus, and Downing Street. The bus slowly glides past these sites, giving plenty of opportunities to snap photos and point out interesting details.

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Live Kid-Friendly Commentary

What makes this tour stand out is the live English-speaking guide who tells stories and shares insights tailored for children. Reviewers frequently mention guides like Sophie, who manages to keep kids focused and entertained with humorous anecdotes and fun facts. One parent noted she was “superb” and that her grandchildren stayed engaged from start to finish.

However, some guests did mention that the microphone audio wasn’t always perfectly clear, which could make it harder for younger children or those with hearing impairments to catch everything. Still, most found the guide’s storytelling engaging enough to keep their interest.

Extra Features: The Tootbus App and Self-Guided Tours

Beyond the bus ride, your ticket grants free access to the Tootbus app. This includes real-time bus tracking, interactive maps, and self-guided walking tours. For families who want to extend their exploration, this feature delivers added value, allowing you to wander through neighborhoods or visit other sights at your own pace.

The Easter Special (April 5-21)

During the Easter period, the tour transforms with festive decor and themed storytelling. Children can enjoy disguises, candies onboard, and a guide dressed up with accessories, creating a more immersive holiday experience. It’s a nice bonus for those visiting London during spring break or Easter.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Starting at 24 Royal Opera Arcade
This central location offers easy access and is a natural starting point. Families can arrive early, especially since reviews suggest arriving at least 10 minutes before departure.

Stop 2: The City Tour
Once on board, you’ll enjoy a scenic 45-minute ride through central London. The guide’s stories, often praised for being humorous and engaging, help children learn about the landmarks in a way that sticks.

Stop 3: Return to the Starting Point
The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, making logistics simple for families with limited time or those combining this activity with other sightseeing plans.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• The 45-minute non-stop tour with live commentary
• Access to the Tootbus app with walking tours and real-time bus tracking
• Wi-Fi onboard so families can share photos or look up information during the ride

Not included:

• Food and drinks, so plan for snacks before or after the tour if children get hungry

Practical Tips for Families

• Arrive early to secure seats, especially during peak times or holiday seasons when the open-air upper deck fills up quickly.
• Bring headphones or earbuds for younger kids, as the microphone volume can sometimes fade.
• Download the Tootbus app beforehand to maximize your experience with self-guided tours.
• Dress in layers — the open-top bus can be very sunny or quite breezy, depending on the weather.
• Consider timing your visit during the Easter season for a festive experience, but be aware that the themed tour runs only from April 5-21.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with many noting that guides like Sophie managed to keep children focused and entertained. One reviewer mentioned, “My grandchildren loved the tour and were focused from start to finish,” highlighting how well the guide’s storytelling works for young audiences.

The value for money also gets high marks, especially considering the combination of a guided tour, app access, and the fun environment. One reviewer summed it up by saying, “Very affordable, entertaining, and educational—what more could you want?”

Some practical concerns include the difficulty hearing from the mic, which a few guests wished could be improved, and the lack of signage outside the bus stop, which caused some initial confusion. Still, these minor issues don’t detract much from the overall positive experience.

The Verdict: Who Should Book This Tour?

This Children’s Open Top Bus Tour is a fantastic choice for families with kids aged 6-12 who want a quick, lively introduction to London’s most famous sights. It’s especially valuable for those who prefer to avoid long walking tours or crowded museums, offering instead a relaxed, engaging ride with plenty of photo opportunities.

For first-time visitors or those with limited time, it provides a quick overview of key landmarks without the hassle of navigating public transport or finding parking. The inclusion of self-guided walking tours means you can extend your exploration comfortably.

While not a full-day experience, it’s an excellent half-day activity that blends fun and education, making it a memorable part of a family trip. The festive Easter version adds an extra layer of joy during the spring months, making it a seasonal highlight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 45 minutes long, offering a brief but comprehensive glimpse of London’s main sights.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 24 Royal Opera Arcade, on Charles II Street, just near His Majesty’s Theatre. Arrive at least 10 minutes early for check-in.

Is the tour suitable for very young children?
It’s designed for kids aged 6-12, but younger children may find it a little long. The lively commentary and open-air ride help keep their attention.

Can I see the landmarks from the bus?
Yes, the open-top design provides excellent views of landmarks like the London Eye, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey. Photos are much easier from the upper deck.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available, so families can upload photos or look up information during the ride.

Are there any special seasonal tours?
Yes, during April 5-21, there’s a special Easter Kids Tour with themed decorations, storytelling, and candies onboard.

What does the tour include?
It includes a 45-minute guided ride, access to the Tootbus app, and Wi-Fi. Food and drinks are not included.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing more families to enjoy the experience.

Can I cancel the tour if plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Final Words

The London Children’s Open Top Bus Tour offers a delightful way for families to see London’s most famous sights without the fatigue of walking or navigating busy streets. Its lively guides and interactive features make it an engaging experience that children remember. It’s great value, flexible with the app, and perfect for a quick yet meaningful introduction to the city.

While the mic volume could be improved, the overall package is hard to beat for families wanting a fun, educational outing. Whether during regular sightseeing or a special holiday like Easter, this tour combines comfort and entertainment — a small adventure that makes London accessible for little explorers.

If you’re traveling with kids who love stories, pictures, and sightseeing from the open air, this tour deserves a spot on your London itinerary. It’s a hassle-free, memorable way to introduce children to the wonders of the city, making it an experience both kids and adults will enjoy.

You can check if your dates are available here: