City (Tower)of London by LE GRAND – London’s Luxury Bus Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see London that combines comfort, style, and a touch of indulgence, the LE GRAND luxury bus tour offers just that. This tour promises a smooth ride through some of the city’s most famous landmarks, with large windows providing panoramic views and optional gourmet snacks to elevate your experience.

What we love about this offering is how it balances the convenience of a guided sightseeing tour with the relaxed pace of sitting back and soaking in the sights. The plush seats, attentive service, and opportunity to purchase drinks make it feel more like a city lounge on wheels than just another bus. However, a possible consideration is that the tour lasts about 1 hour and 40 minutes, which might feel a bit short for those wanting a more in-depth exploration of each stop.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy comfort and style but still want to cover a lot of ground. If you prefer guided commentary with a relaxed vibe, or if your time in London is limited, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Good To Know

• Comfort and Style: Plush double-decker bus with large windows for optimal viewing.
• Efficient Sightseeing: Cover major landmarks like Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Trafalgar Square without the fatigue of walking.
• Optional Indulgence: Gourmet snacks and drinks available for purchase on board.
• Informative Route: Stops include iconic sights and notable areas, offering a rundown of London’s highlights.
• Flexible Experience: The tour is suitable for most travelers, with options to enhance your journey with food and beverages.
• Limited Duration: The tour lasts around 1 hour 40 minutes, so plan accordingly for a quick yet comfortable exploration.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

The tour begins at The Ritz Restaurant, situated at 150 Piccadilly. This central location makes it easy to access via public transportation, adding convenience to your day. The experience is designed to feel more like a luxury outing than a typical sightseeing bus. With a maximum group size of 32 travelers, the atmosphere remains intimate enough to enjoy personalized service.

The staff, praised for being friendly and accommodating, creates a welcoming environment. One reviewer even noted that despite some protests causing slight schedule changes, the crew kept everyone informed and comfortable, which can be reassuring when traveling in an unpredictable city like London.

The Journey and Views

Once seated in the plush, comfortable seats—complete with tables for snacks—you’ll start your journey through London’s streets. The large windows are a highlight, offering expansive views of key sights. Expect to see St. Jamess Palace, Pall Mall, and Trafalgar Square early on, with the grandeur of these historic sites visible from the bus.

The route takes you along Victoria Embankment, providing picturesque views of the Royal Courts of Justice and the Thames River. As you pass St. Paul’s Cathedral, you’ll get a sense of the city’s blend of historic grandeur and modern vibrancy. The London Mithraeum, an ancient Roman temple site, adds a layer of historical charm to the journey.

Key Landmarks and Stops

The tour’s itinerary features a carefully curated list of London’s most recognizable sights. Here’s what you’ll see:

• Tower Bridge and London Bridge: Two of the city’s most iconic crossings. The views from the bus provide a perfect photo opportunity, especially for capturing the distinctive bascule and suspension architecture.
• Monument to the Great Fire: Standing near the old city, this monument commemorates London’s devastating 1666 fire.
• Mansion House & College of Arms: Representing London’s civic and heraldic history, these spots add depth to your understanding of the city’s regal past.
• Somerset House: A magnificent example of neoclassical architecture, often bustling with cultural events.
• Cleopatras Needle & Nelson’s Column: Easily recognizable landmarks that you can admire from your comfortable seat.
• Regent Street & Piccadilly Circus: Lively shopping districts, perfect for those wanting a taste of London’s retail energy.

The Experience of Food and Drink

One of the notable perks of this tour is the option to purchase gourmet bites and beverages during the ride. While included snacks are not part of the standard package, many find the ability to enjoy a glass of wine or a fancy snack while gazing at the city’s sights adds a luxurious touch.

A reviewer praised the service, noting that the staff was wonderful and the seats and tables were “just perfect” for relaxing. With drinks available for purchase, this tour transforms into a leisurely social experience, especially appealing for couples or small groups seeking a more upscale way to explore.

Travel and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, making it a manageable addition to a busy sightseeing day. It’s ideal for those short on time or who prefer a guided overview rather than more time-consuming walking tours.

The group size is capped at 32, which means you’re not lost in a crowd and can enjoy more personalized attention from the staff. The tour operates rain or shine, and the large windows ensure that weather doesn’t ruin your viewing experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

While the overall review score is perfect—thanks in part to the comfort and service—one reviewer mentioned that the tour had to “slightly change because of protests.” However, they appreciated that the staff kept everyone informed, and it didn’t detract from their overall enjoyment.

Another reviewer highlighted the comfy seats and tables as being just right for a relaxed ride, and called the staff “lovely,” emphasizing the importance of good service when spending time on a bus. The emphasis on an informative, yet leisurely ride is clear in these accounts.

Who is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience caters well to travelers who want to see London’s highlights in comfort, especially those who might find walking or standing for long periods challenging. It’s also excellent for visitors who enjoy a touch of luxury but still want to be immersed in the city’s sights.

Couples, small groups, or anyone interested in combining sightseeing with a relaxing atmosphere and optional gourmet snacks will find this tour appealing. It’s suitable for most travelers, though children under 5 aren’t permitted, and the maximum group size keeps it intimate.

Final Thoughts on Value

At $66.38 per person, this tour provides a comfortable and convenient way to glimpse many of London’s top attractions without the exhaustion of navigating on foot. The large windows, plush seats, and attentive service add to the sense of a premium experience. When you factor in the opportunity to purchase drinks and snacks, it feels like good value for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a touch of luxury.

While it’s not an exhaustive tour of every detail at each landmark, it offers a broad overview that’s ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time. The optional gourmet options and relaxed pace make it stand out from more hurried bus tours.

FAQ

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

Can I purchase snacks and drinks during the tour?
Yes, beverages and gourmet bites are available for purchase online or during the tour. They are not included in the ticket price.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, making it a quick but rundown of central London.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at The Ritz Restaurant, Piccadilly, and concludes back at the same location.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit options, making it convenient for most travelers.

What if my plans change?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if needed.

In The Sum Up

This LE GRAND luxury bus tour is an elegant way to navigate London’s most famous sights with style and comfort. It’s particularly suited for those who value scenic views, relaxed pacing, and a bit of sophistication during their sightseeing adventures. The large windows combined with attentive service and optional gourmet snacks make it a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Perfect for travelers short on time or those who prefer sitting back and soaking in the city’s energy, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of London’s landmarks without the fatigue. While it might not replace a full walking tour for history buffs, it’s certainly a refined way to get a taste of London’s vibrant atmosphere.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a relaxed way to see the city, this tour delivers a combination of comfort, iconic sights, and a touch of luxury that many travelers will appreciate.

Note: Always check the current schedule and availability as tours can be affected by protests or other city events.