Buckingham Palace Tour and Afternoon Tea

A Close Look at the Buckingham Palace Tour and Afternoon Tea Experience

If you’re planning a visit to London and want a seamless blend of royal history and classic British indulgence, the Buckingham Palace Tour combined with an afternoon tea on a sightseeing bus is an option worth considering. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews, itinerary, and overall rating paint a clear picture of what to expect: an elegant, well-organized way to experience some of London’s most iconic sights.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to explore Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms, home to priceless artworks and furnishings, often described as “exquisitely furnished.” Second, the afternoon tea bus offers a relaxed, scenic way to see London’s landmarks, with some reviewers noting the excellent care from guides like Abisola and Aneesh. Third, the value for money becomes clear when considering the included entry tickets, expert audio guides, and the leisurely pace.

A potential consideration is the independent nature of the afternoon tea segment—you’ll need to make your way to Victoria after the palace visit, which requires a bit of planning. Also, those with mobility needs should book 14 days in advance for accessible options. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural exploration and light, social dining, making it ideal for couples, friends, or anyone celebrating a special occasion.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive experience: Combines royal history with scenic sightseeing and afternoon tea.
• Expert guides and audio: Insightful information enhances your understanding of Buckingham Palace.
• Flexible timing: Independent scheduling for the afternoon tea allows some control over your day.
• Well-rated guides: Reviewers praise guides like Abisola and Aneesh for their attentive service.
• Good value: Includes entry fees, audio guides, and a quality afternoon tea for a reasonable price.
• Accessibility considerations: Make arrangements in advance if mobility assistance is needed.

The Buckingham Palace Tour: A Royal Introduction

The tour begins with a visit to Buckingham Palace, London’s most recognizable royal residence. As you approach the palace, the grandeur is immediately apparent—gilded gates, meticulous gardens, and the imposing façade set the tone. The State Rooms are the main highlight, and with an included audio guide, you can enrich your visit with detailed descriptions of the furnishings, artworks, and history behind each room.

The State Rooms are a showcase of both tradition and artistry, hosting masterpieces by Rubens, Canaletto, and Rembrandt, along with sculptures by Canova and delicate porcelain from Sèvres. It’s a chance to see the kind of luxury used by royalty, but also to understand how the palace functions as an operational royal residence and administrative hub.

The gardens are often described as a “walled oasis in the middle of London”—a peaceful retreat amid the city’s hustle. Although you won’t get to wander the entire grounds without a special ticket, the views from the windows and the surrounding terraces offer a glimpse of the lush, meticulously maintained landscape.

Reviewers note that the guided audio tour is particularly helpful, providing context and stories that elevate the experience beyond just looking at ornate rooms. This detailed narration helps you appreciate what makes Buckingham Palace more than just a beautiful building—it’s a symbol of Britain’s monarchy and history.

The Afternoon Tea Bus: Sights and Flavors on Wheels

After your palace visit, you’ll be free to head to Victoria’s Bulleid Way for the afternoon tea on a bus. The tour departs at 3 pm, and a glass of Prosecco or soft drink greets you upon boarding, setting a celebratory tone.

Onboard the English Tea Bus, you’ll enjoy a traditional afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, scones, clotted cream, preserves, and small tea cakes. The menu is designed to evoke the classic British tea experience, with options to request vegan or gluten-free dishes if you plan ahead (at least 72 hours). The bus route offers sweeping views of London’s most iconic landmarks—think Tower Bridge, Big Ben, the London Eye, and more.

What makes this experience stand out? The relaxing pace allows you to truly soak in the sights without the pressure of walking or rushing. The open-top design of the bus ensures excellent views, perfect for snapping photos or simply enjoying the scenery while sipping tea.

Reviewers have appreciated the friendly, attentive service—noting guides like Abisola and Aneesh who made everyone feel cared for. Many remarked how the quality of the food and the scenic route made this a highlight of their day. Keep in mind, the bus route may change depending on traffic or road closures, but that’s part of the London adventure.

Practical Details and What You’ll Need to Know

Timing: The tour starts at 10:45 am, with the palace visit lasting approximately two hours. Afterward, you are free to make your way to Victoria for the 3 pm tea, giving you a few hours for sightseeing, photos, or a quick lunch.

Price: At about $117.54 per person, the cost covers both the admission to Buckingham Palace with an audio guide and the afternoon tea on the bus. When you consider the combined value of these experiences—entry to the palace, guided commentary, and a scenic afternoon tea—it’s a reasonable investment for a full London day.

Group Size: The tour limits itself to a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience, especially during the guided parts.

Accessibility: Travelers requiring mobility assistance must book 14 days in advance, highlighting the importance of planning ahead if needed.

Children: The experience isn’t suitable for children under five, likely due to the length and nature of the activities.

Transportation: No hotel transfers are included, so you’ll need to make your way to the designated starting points. The palace is centrally located and near public transportation, making access straightforward.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One guest shared that their friends’ 50th birthday was celebrated on this tour, and they described it as “really nice.” They especially praised the guides’ care and attentiveness, noting that Abisola and Aneesh “looked after us really well” and made the experience memorable.

This kind of personalized service enhances the overall value, turning what could be a simple sightseeing trip into a warm, memorable outing. It also underlines how the guides’ knowledge and friendliness can make a significant difference in how enjoyable the experience is.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxing day combining cultural sights with a leisurely meal. It’s perfect for those who appreciate history and art but also want to enjoy scenic views and good food.

While it’s a great choice for celebration occasions or special trips, it also offers a practical, cost-effective way to see key highlights without the hassle of navigating public transport or booking multiple tickets separately.

Final Thoughts

This combined Buckingham Palace tour and afternoon tea bus experience offers a well-organized, elegant way to spend a day in London. The inclusion of entry tickets, guided audio, and quality food makes it excellent value for anyone wanting to explore royal history and iconic sights comfortably.

The guides’ attentiveness and the scenic bus ride set this apart from more basic sightseeing options. It’s a versatile choice for couples, groups, or anyone looking to enjoy London’s majesty with a touch of British flair.

If you value authentic experiences, good value, and knowledgeable guides, this tour is likely to meet and even exceed your expectations. Just remember to plan your schedule at the end of the palace visit to make the most of the afternoon tea and sightseeing route.

FAQs

Is the Buckingham Palace tour guided?
The tour includes an audio guide, which provides detailed information about the State Rooms and royal history, but it’s self-guided.

How long does the palace visit last?
The visit to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms typically lasts about two hours, giving you ample time to explore and absorb the surroundings.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially if you require mobility assistance, as these need to be arranged 14 days ahead. The tour is usually booked about 15 days in advance.

Can I bring children?
Children under 5 are not permitted on this tour, likely due to the nature and duration of the activities involved.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended because while most of the activities are seated, there is some walking involved around the palace and in the bus.

Is the afternoon tea suitable for dietary restrictions?
Vegan and gluten-free options can be requested at least 72 hours in advance, but the standard menu is non-vegetarian.

Are there toilets on the bus?
No, there are no toilets onboard the afternoon tea bus, so plan accordingly.

What landmarks will I see from the bus?
You’ll enjoy views of Tower Bridge, Big Ben, the London Eye, and other key sights, depending on traffic and route changes.

How long is the entire experience?
The entire experience lasts approximately four hours, starting at 10:45 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Is this a good value for the price?
Given the inclusion of entry tickets, audio guides, and a quality afternoon tea, many travelers find it a worthwhile way to see London’s highlights comfortably and stylishly.

To sum it up, if you’re after a mix of royal elegance, scenic sightseeing, and British culinary tradition, this tour package delivers. It balances informative exploration with a relaxed, enjoyable afternoon, making it an excellent choice for those who want to see London’s highlights without the fuss. Perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in a quintessentially British day out.