London: Buckingham Palace Ticket and Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Exploring London’s Royal Heritage and Afternoon Tea with a Twist

If you’re looking to tick off one of London’s most iconic sights, a tour combining Buckingham Palace and a traditional afternoon tea experience offers a delightful way to do it. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-rounded, engaging day in the capital.

What stands out are the opportunity to explore inside Buckingham Palace’s state rooms, the scenic views of the palace gardens, and the chance to indulge in a classic British afternoon tea—either at a luxurious hotel or on a charming bus with panoramic windows. The overall appeal is heightened by the value for money, given the combination of royal access and a lovely culinary treat, all packed into approximately four hours.

However, a potential consideration is that the tour is unescorted, meaning you’ll need to handle your own transfers after the palace visit. Also, it’s worth noting that children under five are not permitted, so this tour suits older kids and adults looking for an authentic, relaxed experience. Overall, if you’re into history, culture, and a bit of indulgence, this package could be just your style.

Good To Know

• Royal access & audio guide deliver a close-up view of Buckingham Palace’s exquisite state rooms.
• Flexible afternoon tea options include a luxurious hotel or a scenic bus ride with panoramic views.
• Self-guided format offers independence but requires some planning for transfers.
• Great value for the price, considering the attractions, food, and unique experience packed into 4 hours.
• Reviews praise knowledgeable staff and quality food, making it a memorable day.
• Ideal for history lovers, foodies, and those wanting a relaxed, comprehensive London experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

In-Depth Look at the Buckingham Palace & Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Visiting Buckingham Palace: A Royal Encounter

The highlight of this tour is the admission to Buckingham Palace, where you can explore the State Rooms. These rooms are decorated with French and English antique furniture and house treasures from the Royal Collection—think works by Rubens, Canaletto, and Rembrandt, along with sculptures and fine porcelain. The audio guide, available in multiple languages, adds depth, helping you appreciate the stories behind each display.

One reviewer noted, “Getting inside was a highlight,” especially because access is limited to certain months, and the palace was open during their visit in July. This insider peek makes the experience feel exclusive and special.

The Gardens and Views

The Buckingham Palace Gardens are often called a “walled oasis,” and with good reason. The guided walk around the gardens reveals a lush landscape home to 30 bird species and over 350 wildflowers. The views of the lake and the west front of the palace from the garden add an extra layer of beauty and tranquility. Unfortunately, access to the gardens is typically part of the palace tour, but the views during the walk are well worth the effort.

The Self-Guided Flexibility

Since the palace visit is self-guided with an audio guide, you can take your time exploring the rooms and exhibits. This is a huge plus for those who prefer to wander at their own pace rather than follow a strict guide.

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The Afternoon Tea Experience: Choice & Charm

After the palace visit, you’ll have a bit of a walk—around 10 minutes—to reach the departure point for the afternoon tea bus. The tea experience begins at 3:00 pm, where you’re greeted with a glass of Prosecco or a soft drink to set the mood.

You then enjoy a traditional afternoon tea of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and preserves, small tea cakes, and a selection of teas. The bus itself offers a scenic, panoramic view of London, making it a cozy and picturesque setting for your teatime.

Some reviews mention that the food quality is good, emphasizing the delicious scones and well-prepared finger sandwiches. One traveler appreciated the friendly staff and the relaxed atmosphere onboard, making it more than just a meal but an experience in itself.

Alternative Afternoon Tea at The Wellington Hotel

For those craving a more classic, sit-down afternoon tea experience, the tour offers a second option at The Wellington Hotel. Located nearby, this quintessentially British hotel serves a variety of finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, and a broad selection of fine teas. It’s a traditional setting that appeals to devotees of British customs.

Practical Aspects & Logistics

The meeting point for Buckingham Palace entry is outside the King’s Gallery Entrance, with a 10:30 am start. After the palace tour, you’ll need to make your way on foot (roughly a 10-minute walk) to Bulleid Way, Victoria for the afternoon tea check-in at 3:00 pm.

The bus departs at 3:15 pm, and the entire experience lasts around 90 minutes. Keep in mind that the bus route can change due to traffic, and there are no onboard toilets, so plan accordingly.

Price & Value

At $107 per person, this tour offers a solid value, considering the cost of individual palace tickets, the afternoon tea, and the exclusive access to the State Rooms. The self-guided format allows for flexibility, and the scenic bus ride adds an enjoyable sightseeing element.

Reviewers have found it to be good value, especially when combined with the memorable experience of inside Buckingham Palace and a delicious meal.

What’s Not Included

The tour does not provide a live guide, so you’re responsible for navigating between the activities, and hotel transfers are not included. Travelers should be comfortable managing their own logistics afterward, especially to get to the bus departure point.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is best suited for individuals or couples with an interest in British royalty and history, who appreciate flexible, self-paced sightseeing. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a combination of cultural insight and culinary delight without a packed schedule. Families with children over five will find it manageable, but it’s best for those who enjoy a relaxed pace.

The Sum Up

The London: Buckingham Palace Ticket and Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offers a well-balanced day of royal exploration and British indulgence. The opportunity to go inside Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms—something that’s only available during certain months—really elevates this experience beyond a simple sightseeing tour. The option to enjoy afternoon tea on a scenic bus or at a historic hotel adds a charming, relaxing touch.

While the self-guided format demands a bit of planning, it’s perfect for independent travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace. The good reviews about the knowledgeable staff and quality food suggest this is a reliable and enjoyable outing.

If you’re keen on experiencing the essence of London’s royal traditions combined with a delicious afternoon treat, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially valuable for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and food lovers looking for an authentic and memorable day in the capital.

FAQs

Is the tour guided or self-guided?
The palace visit includes an audio guide but is otherwise unescorted, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. The afternoon tea on the bus or hotel is also self-guided, with no live guide onboard.

What time do I need to arrive for the palace visit?
You should meet outside the King’s Gallery Entrance at 10:30 am for the palace entry.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children under 5 are not permitted, making it more suitable for older children and adults.

How do I get from the palace to the afternoon tea?
After your palace visit, you’ll walk about 10 minutes to the Bulleid Way departure point in Victoria, where the tea bus departs at 3:15 pm.

What does the afternoon tea include?
The tea features finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and preserves, small tea cakes, and a selection of teas. You can also choose to enjoy it at The Wellington Hotel for a more traditional setting.

Can I request vegan or gluten-free options?
Yes, these can be requested at the time of booking.

Is alcohol served during the tea?
Yes, alcohol (Prosecco) is available for guests aged 18 and over.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 7 days in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for planning.

In summary, this tour combines the thrill of stepping inside one of the world’s most famous palaces with the comfort of enjoying a traditional British afternoon tea in style. It’s a smart choice for those who want to experience a quintessential London day without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, all at a reasonable price.

You can check if your dates are available here: