The Best Afternoon Tea Bus London Has To Offer

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Looking for a truly unique experience while in London? How about afternoon tea while riding on a vintage double-decker bus? Read all about my fun experience on B-Bakery's bus tour!

A Delicious Ride On B Bakery’s Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

I know what you’re thinking. An afternoon tea bus in London? What better way to combine two quintessentially British activities (red double-decker buses and afternoon tea) into one, all while taking a tour of England’s capital city! Well, dear reader, you would be right.

I was lucky enough to be invited by the lovely team at Brigit’s Bakery to experience their afternoon tea bus tour during my recent trip to London. It was one of the most fun, unique things I’ve ever done while traveling, so I had to share a little peek into my time on B-Bakery’s tour!

Today I’m taking you with me on a vintage afternoon tea experience with B-Bakery. Hop on the bus and get ready to sip a cuppa while I spill the tea on whether or not I liked this quirky tour! (Too many tea references? Never.)

Alright – enough chit chat. On to the tour!

Some thoughts on London:

I’ve been to London three times now, and every time I visit, I find more reasons to love it. The hustle and bustle of the city, its pure British charm, gorgeous facades, adorable shops and delicious restaurants are just a few of the reasons I can’t get enough of England’s capital.

However, I’ve never taken a tour while in London, and I think they can be a fantastic way to see parts of a city that you may not have had the chance to see before. But I knew I didn’t want another generic, hop on, hop off style bus tour.

As I did a little research on unusual tours in London, I kept coming across rave reviews of B-Bakery as the best afternoon tea bus London had to offer! I figured all those people couldn’t be wrong, and decided to give it a try!

Who came up with this adorable idea?

Brigit’s Bakery (also known as B-Bakery) is a French-style salon bakery with beautiful, delicate decor serving delicious fresh cakes, patisserie and savory bites, all made in house. B-Bakery is located in Covent Garden in London and was founded in 2010 by French family Brigit, Philippe and Cedric Bloch.

The original Brigit’s Bakery was located next to the famous London Eye. Brigit continues to run the bakery and tour company alongside her son Cedric.

Besides offering a classical afternoon tea in their Covent Garden location, you can also book their bus tours, river cruises and to-go picnic fixings if you prefer taking your goodies to a local park in London! They even offer a Gin Lovers Afternoon Tea for those of you who prefer liquor to tea (no judgment).

What is an afternoon tea bus tour?

Well, it’s basically everything you’re thinking, but better! An afternoon tea bus tour combines two of London’s most iconic cultural symbols: tea and double-decker buses. It also provides an amazing overview of central London, and an easy way to see a lot of the city in a short amount of time.

B-Bakery’s fleet of cherry red 1960’s double-decker Routemaster buses have been transformed into beautiful rolling tea parlors, offering the chance to experience London from the seat of a stylish ride while being served a delicious vintage afternoon tea.

Worried about spilling your tea?

Don’t be! The bus has these perfect little cup holders built into each table so you can secure your drinks even on sharp corners. Because while a bunch of drinks sliding all over the place may sound hilarious, in actuality, it would probably be very annoying and painful…ouch, hot tea!

Have any food sensitivities or preferences?

Brigit’s has gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options for those on the hunt for a yummy afternoon tea experience who have a few restrictions. Their staff is incredibly accommodating and happy to help any guests who might need extra assistance.

Note: you must select the type of meal (including any dietary restrictions) when you book your tour so they can have everything ready for you upon your arrival to the bus!

What do you get on B-Bakery’s afternoon tea bus tour?

During the 90-minute tour, you will be seated at your pre-booked table (which you will choose during the online booking process). There are only 11 tables on the bus, meaning they fill up quickly! Two of those 11 tables are designated as VIP tables, as they are located at the front of the bus on the upper deck (translation: they have the best views).

The other tables are located on the upper or lower deck of the bus, and the price per person depends on your table selection and its location on the bus. Prices vary between £45 and £65 per person.

Take note that the VIP tables only seat two people each, and are a slightly higher price. We didn’t sit at a VIP table, but we did sit on the upper deck, which I’d recommend for the best perspective on the city.

Let’s talk about the food (and tea)!

It’s delicious. You have a choice of several different types of tea, coffee, freshly squeezed orange juice, and water. During the tour, you will be asked if you want more of everything, so feel free to ask for more beverages. Just keep in mind that there is no bathroom on the bus (which may be particularly important if you have a tiny bladder).

The tables were all set up prior to us boarding the bus, with a seriously adorable and pretty spread of tea sandwiches, mini cupcakes, pastries and macarons. All of their offerings are delicious, including the vegetarian and gluten-free selections.

Around 45 minutes into the tour (when you’re stuffed full of tiny sandwiches), the B-Bakery staff will make the rounds with warm, fresh scones, clotted cream and strawberry jam. This, my friends, will be the greatest dilemma of your life. Do or don’t try to cram some scones into your mouth? The answer is yes. Always yes.

My experience with B-Bakery:

While I was a guest of B-Bakery, I did do some poking around their website and found the booking process to be extremely easy (not to mention my feelings on their pretty pink design).

Their team was an absolute pleasure to communicate with from start to finish, and it was obvious that they all take pride in what they do. The B-Bakery staff on the bus was incredibly welcoming and friendly. They went above and beyond before, during and after the tour to ensure all of their guests were taken care of and having a good time!

The bus was beautifully decorated with fairy lights and and pink and red vintage accents, and the bench style seating was very cozy and comfortable. B-Bakery has clearly thought of everything – all the way down to the convenient, secure cupholders built in to the tables and souvenir cups with lids (which you get to take home) to ensure your tea doesn’t spill during the tour! They even have non-slip material on the bottom of their plates and platters to keep everything on the table.

Why is B-Bakery the best afternoon tea bus tour London has to offer?

Let’s run down the list of reasons, shall we?

  • The nostalgia-inducing 60’s soundtrack played on the bus is impeccable
  • It’s the only bus tour in London where you can ride on vintage Routemaster double-decker buses
  • Their sweet and savory goodies are scrumptious and creative – made fresh daily in their Covent Garden bakery
  • B-Bakery’s staff is ultra-friendly and super attentive
  • Their route offers the perfect way to easily see lots of major London spots
  • Convenient, central pick-up and drop-off points for tours
  • A great activity for groups, couples, families or solo travelers

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Things to note:

  • You should arrive hungry, as there is plenty of food provided during the tour
  • There is no bathroom available on the bus, so be sure you’ve found a bathroom right beforehand
  • The afternoon tea bus tour takes 90 minutes from start to finish, and B-Bakery’s tours run on time, so don’t be late
  • The windows on the upper deck of the bus got a bit foggy during our ride, so getting photos was a little tricky
  • Taking photos on a moving bus takes serious skills and a good camera – try to snap your photos at stoplights
  • B-Bakery’s afternoon tea bus tours fill up fast, so be sure to make reservations weeks in advance
  • There are no stops during the tour
  • You are welcome to take home any leftovers

Is it worth it?

Let’s get down to the nitty gritty: this is an experience tour, not a historical tour packed with detailed commentary. If you’re looking for a fun way to get an overview of London while having a lovely afternoon tea, this is definitely the tour for you!

However, if you’re hoping for a truly in-depth sightseeing tour of the city, B-Bakery’s tour may leave you wanting a little more.

B-Bakery’s afternoon tea bus route takes you around all the iconic London sights: Buckingham Palace, The Albert Memorial, Big Ben, Notting Hill, the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square and many others.

During the tour, the B-Bakery team provides some minimal commentary about the major sights as well as playing iconic classic songs from the 60’s and 70’s (my favorite era). The music they play creates such a fun, relaxed vibe that only enhanced my enjoyment of our drive around London!

 

During May 2018, B Bakery even offered a Royal Tea Bus Tour in celebration of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s royal wedding. So cute!

 

 

Ready to book the best afternoon tea bus London has to offer?

Here are some final details:

  • Duration of tour: 90 minutes
  • Price: £45 to £65 per person
  • Kids are allowed if they are 5 years or older
  • Departure points & times: 8 Northumberland Avenue (near Trafalgar Square) at 12:30pm and 3pm or Victoria Coach Station at 12pm, 2:30pm and 5pm
  • Book your tour by clicking here
  • More info on Brigit’s Bakery can be found on their website

 

And that’s it folks!

I hope you’ve enjoyed taking a little ride with me on this fun afternoon tea bus tour! If you’ve never considered taking a bus tour in London, I definitely encourage you to check B-Bakery’s tours out and book one of your own.

Again, be sure to book well in advance of your trip as seats fill up fast!

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A big thanks to Brigit’s Bakery for hosting us as their guests in exchange for an unbiased review. As always, all opinions (including bad tea puns and scone glamour shots) are 100% my own. 

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107 thoughts on “The Best Afternoon Tea Bus London Has To Offer”

  3. Lizzie

    I’m dying to try this tour, surely there is no better way to see London and EAT CAKE! Looks so incredibly delicious too 🙂

  4. Lizzy Rhodes

    I’ll have to try this when I get to London! I did a similar tour and loved it in Paris!

  6. Susan

    I lived in England for 3 years and just fell in love with afternoon tea and cakes. This sounds like a fun way to cruise around London, especially on a rainy day where it’s difficult to walk around. Thanks for sharing your experience!

  8. Nina

    I have never done this in London, but you’re right it combines 2 quintessentially London activities. I just might do it on my next visit!

  10. Monica

    This is fantastic, I am going to try this next time when I visit London. Thanks for sharing this great post!

  11. Pamela Chieffallo

    I’ve lost count of how many times I have been to London and like you, I just can’t get enough! I haven’t tried this yet but after reading your post and being reassured that my tea won’t go flying everywhere, I may just give it a go next time! 🙂

  13. Liz

    I love this! The pictures look so pretty. Next time I go to London, it’s a must! Thanks so much for sharing!

  14. Cynthia

    This is such a fun concept! It’s like all the fun and yummy of London in one place! I didn’t even know that this existed until I read your post. I know now what to do on my next visit to London 🙂

  15. Taru

    Wow, this is such a cool idea – I love afternoon tea & double-decker buses! Thanks for also answering my worry about possibly spilling my tea 🙂

    1. Sierra

      Haha – you’re not the only one worried about that part – I was too until I realized they’d already solved that problem for me 😉

  19. Nicky

    Oh wow those miniature cakes look too good! I would gobble them all up!! Thanks for sharing. London is my home city, always nice to discover new things to do

    1. Sierra

      They tasted amazing too! Their spread was incredible, and everything was so fresh! I’m jealous you’re from London! It’s my favorite 🙂

  20. Andrea Mayfield

    All of that food looks so yummy! I have seen so many photos from this! I would love to do it one day!

  21. Mayuri

    This is so amazing! What a great way to immerse in London culture! I will definitely do this on my trip!
    And your pictures are amazing

  22. Daniela Fries

    A tea bus tour – people have such beautiful ideas. Personally, I find it a bit pricey but it’s probably ok for London (I’ve been in Latin America for too long). I think this tour is something I’d like to give someone as a birthday gift.

  25. Kasia Dietz

    What a fun and delicious idea! Love high tea on a double decker bus! Thanks so much for sharing. I’ll try this on my next trip to London.

  27. Anisa

    This sounds like so much fun! I would really like to do the Royal Wedding one, but not sure if I will be in London before June. Maybe they will extend it! And yes, I agree it is so hard to get good pictures on bus tours but you did a great job.

    1. Sierra

      I know! I wish I were going to be there again this month, alas! Maybe they will extend, who knows! Thanks for the photo love!

  34. Jessica Carpenter

    This looks like so much fun! I’m the same, I rarely do tours unless they are educational or quirky and unique. This looks wonderful and delicious! Definitely saving!

  35. Sarah

    It sure looks yummy. I’ve been to B Bakery many times (as I do live in London) and I just love their cakes and the cute little Covent Garden location. However I’ve yet to actually try their Afternoon Tea Bus Tour. But it sure looks gorgeous.

  36. Celia

    This is too darn adorable!! Those little cakes look so delicious. Definitely jotting this down for when I visit London (one day!) 🙂

  37. Joy Sheehan

    I’m a sucker for string lights and desserts so this adorable idea is right up my alley! It looks like such a cute (and yummy) experience!

  40. Janine Good

    I did this too! It is such a great experience and definitely my favourite afternoon tea in London. We got the upper level more pricey seats so we had incredible views of the sites. I have my cup on display at home as we did this on our 1 year wedding anniversary 🙂

  41. Rea

    I love afternoon teas or hi-teas.
    And this post is amazing with such detail.
    I would surely use this as my guide when I get thr chance to go there!

  42. Mihaela

    Now I now what I am going to do next time I go to London. I had no idea about this and it looks like a great experience!!

  44. Heidi

    I’ve been to London more than a few times and knew nothing about tea busses. I’m so doing this next time in London. It looks like a blast.

  45. Christie

    I’m moving to London in a few months, and when my parents visit, my mom and I are planning to do this tour! It looks so fun and quintessentially British! We’ve been to some classic high teas in London, so this would be a cool and different experience for us 🙂

  47. Cherene Saradar

    I honestly want to book a trip to London just to do this! I’m all about tea time!

  48. Rowena

    What? That’s the coolest thing! I adore afternoon tea (bc let’s be honest, so many noms) and this looks like a cute twist.

  49. Lauren

    This sounds like an absolute dream! As we’re currently backpacking Australia, if there’s one thing we miss its proper British tea – and a cake to match! What an interesting way to see London too – with a cake in hand 😉

  50. Rebecca

    Oh my gosh, this looks so much fun – and so British! Adding to my list of things to do when I get back to London next!

  51. Eloise

    Wow, the British bus + afternoon tea sounds very cliche but such a great idea! I’d love to try it. It’s awesome that you’re allowed to take the leftovers. I hate food waste. It’s the first time I hear about this activity so thanks a lot for sharing it! 🙂

    1. Sierra

      It sounds a bit dorky but it’s truly such a delight! I hate food waste too – rest assured no food was wasted here – it was so delicious we devoured it all 😉

  52. Amy

    That looks amazing! I’m going to London in july for my sister’s birthday so I’m going to suggest doing this!

  54. Constance

    I never thought about eating anything on a bus (aside from my morning croissant), let alone afternoon tea and on a bus. Loved reading this post as you brought the experience to life to my screen. Would definitely love to try those delectable eats someday, especially since I love a good tea!

  55. Mari

    Although I love tea parties, and appreciate public transit, this didn’t appeal to me at all—until I read your post! If I go to London, I think I’d really enjoy the Brigit’s Bakery afternoon tea bus tour. Many years ago I had what was touted as a very special British tea in a hotel in Victoria, B.C. It was disappointing in every way. Your photos alone showed that Brigit’s tea bus tour would not disappoint! I wish my elder neighbor Stefchka—who loved following the Royal Family—was around to go on their special tour in celebration of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding.

    1. Sierra

      I think you would’ve really loved to take the tour with me! It’s such a fun, unique experience. I’m so sorry you had such a bad tea experience in Canada! I’ll have to take you with me to London one day to go to Fortnum & Mason for a super special high tea that won’t disappoint 🙂 Stef would’ve loved the Royal Wedding tour, I’m sure.

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