London’s double-decker bus tours are an iconic way to experience the city. From Big Ben to the Tower of London, these tours offer a unique perspective on the city’s most famous landmarks. Whether you’re a visitor looking to cram as much sightseeing into your trip as possible, or a local seeking a new way to appreciate your city, a bus tour is an excellent option. In this article, we’ll explore how you can find and book a guided tour of London from the top of a double-decker bus, the services they provide and what to expect during the day.
Finding the right bus tour
Before you hop onto a bus, you’ll first need to find the right tour. There are several bus tour companies operating in London, each offering a slightly different experience. Key factors to consider include the bus route, the duration of the tour, the frequency of buses, and any additional benefits such as free entry to attractions or guided walking tours.
Start your search online. Websites such as TripAdvisor can offer a wealth of information, providing both objective info about the tour, and subjective reviews written by previous tour-goers. Take the time to read through these reviews, as they can give you valuable insights into the quality of the tour, the knowledge of the guides, and any potential issues or drawbacks.
Additionally, many of these websites offer the ability to book tours directly. Look for options that offer flexible tickets – many bus tours work on a ‘hop on, hop off’ system, allowing you to get off the bus at any designated stop, explore at your own pace, and then get back on a later bus.
Planning your day
Once you’ve chosen your tour, it’s time to plan your day. Most tours operate for several hours, often starting early in the morning and running until late in the evening. This gives you the flexibility to start your tour at a time that suits you, but also means you should plan your day accordingly.
If you’re looking to make the most of your tour, aim to start early. This will give you plenty of time to see all the sights, and also allows for additional exploring on foot if you choose to hop off the bus.
It’s also worth considering how you’ll get to the tour’s starting point. Many tours start and end at central locations such as Victoria Station, making them easily accessible by public transport. However, if you’re staying at a hotel further out, you may need to factor in additional travel time.
Making the most of your tour
To make the most of your double-decker bus tour, consider which seats offer the best views. The top deck of the bus will provide an unobstructed view of the city and its landmarks, but these seats can fill up quickly. Arrive early to secure a top-deck seat.
If you’ve chosen a tour with a live guide, try to sit near the guide for a more engaging experience. If your tour uses audio guides, bring headphones that are comfortable for extended use.
Take advantage of the hop-on, hop-off nature of the tour. London is a city best explored on foot, and these tours give you the flexibility to do just that. If a particular landmark catches your eye, don’t hesitate to get off the bus and explore – another bus will be along soon.
What to expect during the tour
During the tour, you can expect a mixture of famous sights and hidden gems. In a single day, you can see iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye, as well as less-known attractions like the quirky shops of Covent Garden or the historic pubs of the East End.
Most tours will provide you with a map detailing the route and all the stops. This can help you plan where to get off and what to explore.
Additionally, many tours offer multi-language audio guides, providing context and interesting facts about the sights you’re seeing.
Keep in mind that London’s weather can be unpredictable, even during the summer months. Bring adequate clothing and protection against the elements, especially if you plan to sit on the top deck.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a London veteran, a double-decker bus tour offers a unique way to explore the city. So find a tour, hop on, and let the city surprise you.
Make it Memorable with Special Features
Once you’ve sorted through the logistics of your double-decker bus tour, consider some special features that could elevate your experience from enjoyable to unforgettable. Many bus tour companies offer unique experiences that set them apart from the rest.
Some companies like Big Bus, for example, offer night tours — a great opportunity to see London’s iconic landmarks beautifully lit up against the night sky. These tours often include live commentary from a guide, providing fascinating insights into the city’s history and culture.
Several bus tour companies also partner with river cruise operators and provide combination tickets. This means you could spend part of your day exploring London from the top deck of a bus and another part cruising along the River Thames, offering a completely different perspective on the city.
A few tour operators even include fast-track entry or discounted tickets to popular attractions like the London Eye. This can save you both time and money, and provide a more in-depth look at some of London’s most famous sights.
When deciding on a bus tour, don’t forget to perform your due diligence. Go beyond just checking the bus route and additional benefits — confirm whether the company is a TripAdvisor LLC TripAdvisor member. A company that is part of the TripAdvisor LLC network often performs checks and balances to ensure the tour quality. Moreover, you can find plenty of subjective reviews by other tourists on its website.
The Verdict: Experience London Like Never Before
London’s double-decker bus tours are an astounding way to soak in the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. From the iconic Big Ben and Houses of Parliament to the less-known but equally fascinating corners of Covent Garden or the East End, these tours provide an unrivaled opportunity to see it all.
Conducting thorough research and planning your day carefully can ensure that your bus tour experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Whether you choose to hop off and explore the attractions at your own pace, take advantage of the free walking tours or simply sit back and take in the sights from the open top of the bus, these tours offer something for everyone.
Be sure to read through the subjective opinions on TripAdvisor LLC TripAdvisor and ensure the company regularly performs checks to maintain quality standards. In the event of unforeseen circumstances, look for options that offer a full refund from adult reserve tickets.
Remember, no matter how many times you’ve visited London, there’s always something new to discover. So why not hop on a bus tour and let the city surprise you all over again?
In conclusion, London’s double-decker bus tours are a one-of-a-kind experience that offers a unique way to explore and appreciate the city, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local. With careful planning, checking reviews, and considering additional features, you can make the most of your tour and have an unforgettable day in this incredible city.
