bus tour london covent garden

Brigit's Afternoon Tea London Experiences

Brigit’s bakery is one of the best places for afternoon tea in london. hop on one of our afternoon tea london sightseeing bus tours or visit the relaxing sanctuary of brigit’s bakery covent garden., upcoming afternoon tea london bus tours, classic afternoon tea london sightseeing bus tour.

DURATION 90MINS

TRADITIONAL AFTERNOON TEA

FOR AGES 5+

Bombay Sapphire Gin Afternoon Tea Sightseeing Bus Tour

GIN AFTERNOON TEA

Father's Day Afternoon Tea London Bus Tour

AFTERNOON TEA

Paddington Afternoon Tea Bus London Sightseeing Tour

PADDINGTON AFTERNOON TEA

Peppa Pig Afternoon Tea London Sightseeing Bus Tour

PEPPA PIG AFTERNOON TEA

FOR AGES 2+

4th of July London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Brigit's afternoon tea covent garden.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of busy Covent Garden is the relaxing sanctuary of Brigit’s Bakery Covent Garden. Come and relax with an English tea and cupcake before you hit the shops or stop for afternoon tea or even a bite to eat before the theatre. We have private rooms and seating downstairs, so if you want to get away from the crowds and have your own space, then come and visit us. You’ll be very glad you did!

Visit our Bakery

Brigit’s Covent Garden Brunch

When it comes to brunch options, what stands us apart from other brunch restaurants in Covent Garden is that we offer an Afternoon Tea Bottomless Brunch with a wide choice of drinks - we're talking a selection of loose-leaf teas and coffee, but also Prosecco, Champagne and fantastic Gin cocktails.

Learn about our Brunch

Afternoon Tea London Catering

We provide wholesale afternoon tea for hotels and restaurants in the London area. We offer a full range of sweet and savoury treats which can be customised to match your brand. You'll get everything you need to craft unique and delicious afternoon teas that people simply can't resist. All you need to add are beverages – tea, coffee, Prosecco or Champagne – then serve. Simple. We are proud to be SALSA approved, signifying our commitment to maintaining the highest standards in food safety and quality.

Afternoon Tea London Delivery

Delighted by the thought of afternoon tea delivered to your door? Now you can make it a reality, with Brigit's Bakery Afternoon Tea London Delivery – our unique Afternoon Tea experience brought to your home or work. What could be lovelier than a wonderful cream tea delivery for a tea party in your home? Treat your guests to the unique combination of a fine English tradition, fused with a delicate French twist.

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Private Hire for Events

Party room hire.

FOR ALL AGES

Sightseeing Bus London Hire

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Incredible Tour!

I couldn’t imagine a better way to kick off our UK tour. Our guides Daisy, Monica and Kel went above and beyond to make this experience perfect. We couldn’t recommend enough, you won’t be disappointed!

Fantastic birthday gift

I booked this for 5 Adults for my sisters 40th Birthday - and have to say it was amazing!! The food was delicious, the selection of drinks too, and the attention to detail was so cute! You got to keep the hot tea flasks that drinks were served in - and they gave out little pink takeaway boxes for any spare cakes! As it was my sisters birthday they brought out a cake with a candle and we all sung happy birthday! I will be highly recommending this to my friends!

Absolutely loved every minute!

If you’re going to do it…do it on a Brigit’s bus with afternoon tea! Our servers on the day were Micah, Alex and Diogo and they were super. We got to see all the Major landmarks and even got to take home what we couldn’t eat. All in all would highly recommend this experience, with friends or with loved ones this is a really special treat.

Cute way to see London

Afternoon Tea + London bus is a brilliant combination. Nice staff and good music in the background. We really enjoyed it. And it looks good in Instagram!

What a gorgeous place!!

I’m sat here now writing this review. This bakery is the most stunning bakery I’ve ever been to! Cakes are delicious, service friendly too! The decorations are so delicate and precise - you feel like you’ve entered a wonderland.

Afternoon Tea in LaLa Land

Our friends booked me and my wife this treat for my birthday and it was excellent, nice food great service one and half hour of travelling around London with good commentary of the sites in between listening to nice xmas carols, really do go into la la land. would recommend this trip to any age group.

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WE'RE WHEELCHAIR-FRIENDLY!

Did you know that we have a wheelchair-friendly bus for our afternoon tea london sightseeing tours, latest news, things to do with grandparents in london, fun things to do in london for kids this summer.

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Bombay Sapphire Gin Lovers Tour

Are you ready to embark on a gin-infused adventure onboard the Bombay Sapphire Gin Lovers Afternoon Tea Bus Tour? Book your seat now!

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London sightseeing bus tours : places to visit in London

London themed tours.

Unique rooftop on wheels

• Catchy playlist
• Drinks available on board

London Kids Tour

Non-stop live guided bus tour

• Live guided in English
• Fun and educational

London by Night

Non-stop evening bus tour

• 3 walking tours
• Adult & kids commentary

London Christmas Lights Tour

• London's iconic lights

Hop-on hop-off tours: Discover London at your own pace

Must See London

Hop-on hop-off bus tour + cruise

• 1, 2 or 3 days
• 3 bus routes
• River cruise

London Discovery

Hop-on hop-off bus tour + walking tours

London Discovery + London By Night

Daytime hop-on hop-off bus tour + evening bus tour

• 3 daytime bus routes
• 1 night tour

Private Tour

Private Bus Hire London

For more details

• Team building
• Educational tours

Discover London with Tootbus , the must-do sightseeing bus tour experience!

 Enjoy our various routes to explore the city at your own pace, with panoramic views from our open-top deck buses .

Embark wherever you like on our different lines to discover London and all its iconic landmarks.  Our themed tours will immerse you in the heart of its history, culture, and architectural wonders. Whether with children on the Kids Tour , over a drink on the Bar Bus , or with your loved one on the Night Tour , there's something for everyone!

Continue your excursion beyond your sightseeing bus tour with Tootwalk . Our free guided walking tours , available through the Tootbus app on App Store and Google Play , will accompany you on your strolls in London, which will no longer hold any secrets for you. 

Let the city simply take you by surprise, welcome to London!

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The Red Official Route presents the key sights and top attractions of London including the Tower of London, Trafalgar Square, St Paul’s Cathedral, London Eye, The Shard, Tower Bridge and Leicester Square. Crossing the river four times you are guaranteed some spectacular views of London’s stunning scenery along the Thames on this London tourist route.

London Hop-On Hop-Off Routes, Stops, and Maps

Convenient stops near London’s popular attractions and transit points, frequent buses, and audio guides to keep your journey informative - what more do you need to explore London? Get your London hop-on hop-off pass now and stop fretting about navigating its public transport. These passes let you board and deboard at any of the stops as many times as you need, making commuting effortless. And the London hop-on hop-off timetable is well-scheduled so that your next bus is never too far away. Read on to learn more about the routes and stops offered by various hop-on hop-off operators in London. 

City Sightseeing London hop-on hop-off stops, routes, and maps

• Best suited for: Tourists seeking London's iconic attractions 
• Major sights: Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, London Eye
• First bus: 8:30am (from Belvedere Road)
• Last bus: 7:35pm (from Belvedere Road)
• No. of stops: 20
• Frequency: Every 10 to 20 minutes
• Full loop duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

• Best suited for: Museum, park, and shopping lovers
• Major sights: Kensington Palace, Harrods, Hyde Park, Royal Albert Hall
• First bus: 9am (from Hyde Park, Queen Elizabeth Gate)
• Last bus: 6pm (from Hyde Park, Queen Elizabeth Gate)
• No. of stops: 9
• Full loop duration: 1 hour

• Best suited for: Museum lovers; travelers using major transit points like Euston Station, King's Cross Station
• Major sights: The British Museum, The Foundling Museum, Royal Opera House, London Transport Museum
• First bus: 9:17am (from Belvedere Road)
• Last bus: 4:17pm (from Belvedere Road)
• No. of stops: 14
• Frequency: Every 20 to 30 minutes
• Full loop duration: 35 minutes

Recommended tours:

1-Day/24/48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of London with Optional Thames River Cruise

Big Bus London hop-on hop-off stops, routes, and map

• Best suited for: Central London explorers, history buffs
• Major sights: London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London, Buckingham Palace
• First bus: 8:15am (from Stop 1: Green Park Underground)
• Last bus: 6pm (from Stop 1: Green Park Underground)
• No. of stops: 24

• Best suited for: Nature, museum, and shopping lovers
• Major sights: Kensington Palace and Garden, Hyde Park, Royal Albert Hall, Harrods, Marble Arch
• First bus: 8am (from Victoria, Nova Complex)
• Last bus: 6pm (from Victoria, Nova Complex)
• No. of stops: 39
• Frequency: Every 15 to 20 minutes
• Full loop duration: 3 hours 35 minutes

• Best suited for: Travelers to central London from the northern part of the city; people using train stations like Euston Station
• Major sights: British Museum, Temple Church, King's Cross Station, Euston Station, St Pancras Station
• First bus: 8:30am (from Woburn - Northbound) 
• Last bus: 6pm (from Woburn - Northbound)
• No. of stops: 10
• Frequency: Every 30 to 60 minutes
• Full loop duration: 1 hour 10 minutes

Big Bus: 24/48-Hour Hop-On-Hop-Off London Tour with Optional Cruise

Tootbus London hop-on hop-off stops, routes, and maps

• Best suited for: Travelers wishing to visit central London’s top attractions
• First bus: 8:30am (from Coventry Street)
• Last bus: 4pm (from Coventry Street)
• No. of stops: 18

• Best suited for: Travelers wishing to explore central & west London; parks, museums & shopping lovers
• Major sights: Parliament Street, Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, Kensington Palace, Notting Hill
• First bus: 9am (from Grosvenor Gardens)
• Last bus: 6:20pm (from Grosvenor Gardens)
• No. of stops: 22
• Frequency: Every 15 to 30 minutes

• Best suited for: Travelers wanting to connect to the yellow route from north London transit points like King's Cross & St Pancras; Museum-seekers
• Major sights: British Museum, British Library, Covent Garden, Royal Opera House
• First bus: 8:35am (from Wyndham's Theatre)
• Last bus: 7:30pm (from Wyndham's Theatre)
• No. of stops: 12
• Frequency: Every 30 to 45 minutes

Tootbus: 90 Mins London Night Bus Tour

Every pretty street and landmark in London shines extra bright when enveloped in twinkling lights at night. Traverse the city as it comes alive at night on this tour taking place on open-top buses. 

• Timings: Fri, Sat & Sun: 7:30pm in March & April | 8pm in May | 8:30pm from Jun to Aug | 7:30pm in Sep | 7pm in Oct | 5:30pm in Nov
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Starting point: Coventry Street, London W1D 6BH
• Recommended ticket: Tootbus: 90 Mins London Night Bus Tour

Tootbus: Kids Tour of London with Live Guide

Why should adults have all the fun? Let your kids explore and learn about London with live and engaging commentary and go back home with tales to tell. 

• Timings: 11 am - 3 pm (departures may vary with season)
• Frequency: Every 45 minutes
• Duration: 45 minutes
• Route map: Download map
• Starting point: Charles II Street 
• Recommended ticket: Tootbus: Kids Tour of London with Live Guide

Recommended Tootbus hop-on hop-off tours:

Tootbus: 24/48/72-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of London with Optional Night Tour

Tootbus: 24/48/72-Hour Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour of London with Thames River Cruise

Uber Boat by Thames Clipper London hop-on hop-off stops, routes, and maps

• Best suited for: Cruise enthusiasts based in east London; those looking for a unique perspective of London
• Major sights: House of Parliament, Westminster Bridge, London Eye, Oxo Building
• First boat: Weekdays: 5:30am (from North Greenwich); Weekends: 8:10am (from Barking Riverside) 
• Last boat:  Weekdays: 9:20pm (from Barking Riverside); Weekends: 9:30 (from North Greenwich)
• No. of stops: Varies with the boat, boarding point & time of the day
• Frequency: Every 30 minutes
• Duration: 1 hour - 1 hour 30 minutes (depending on stops en route)
• Best suited for: Cruise lovers based in west London; those looking for a unique yet fun experience in London
• Major sights: St Paul’s Cathedral, House of Parliament, London Eye, Oxo Building
• First boat: Weekdays: 6:30am (from Putney); Weekends: 8:30am (from Battersea Power Station)
• Last boat: Weekdays: 10:32pm (from Embankment); Weekends: 10:40 (from Battersea Power Station)
• Frequency: Every 20 minutes (weekdays); Every 30 minutes (weekends)
• Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes - 1 hour 30 minutes (depending on stops en route)

Uber Boat By Thames Clippers Hop-On Hop-Off Tour in London

Book London hop-on hop-off tickets

Frequently asked questions.

Yes, most hop-on hop-off tour operators have planned their routes so that all the major train and bus stations like King's Cross, St Pancras, Euston, and various London Underground stations are all linked to the attractions. So hopping onto the bus from transit points is easy.

Full loop duration is the time taken for one hop-on hop-off bus to complete one full route - first stop to the last. If you have time, we recommend taking this full loop once without getting off the bus to get the feel and pulse of London and then going again, hoping off at places you want to visit.

You can usually find audio guides in multiple languages, and printed or digital maps to keep track of the stops on the way. The upcoming stops are often announced as well.

Yes, get off at any of the stops on the bus route, and explore the attractions near it. Use the same pass to hop back on the next bus to check out the next destination. 

Much of London including attractions and transit hubs in central, west, and north London is usually covered by hop-on hop-off buses. You can check the specific routes offered by each operator for more information. 

Account for traffic when you plan your London hop-on hop-off journey. Leave ample time for traveling from one stop to another, especially while purchasing timed tickets for attractions.

Navigating a new city, even ones that have exceptional transport networks like London, can be overwhelming for a tourist. With structured routes covering all of London City’s famous attractions, frequent services, and the flexibility to hop on and off as much as you want, hop-on hop-off tours are totally worth every penny. It is especially useful for those in the city for a short span as you can see much of London's attractions at least from the outside.

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Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 24 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

Covent Garden and The West End

Tour Information

Covent garden & west end, covent garden & west end highlights.

Last year nearly 15 million tickets were sold for over 18,000 performances in London's West End.  Join us to explore the past, the present and the future of Theatreland, one of London’s foremost tourist attractions and, arguably, the most vibrant, exciting performing arts scene in the world.  

As we wander through the West End, we will see the oldest working theatre in London, hear about a murder at The Adelphi, discover the world's longest-running play (and the world's longest-running musical), as well as getting tips and tricks for bagging the best tickets in town.

Learn why some shows run forever, why some shows are worth the money, and why some are a matter of preference! From big-name venues to theatres you may have never heard of, this is a fun walk for both those who have loved the theatre for years, or for those just getting started!

Sites included...

• Rules Restaurant
• Adelphi Theatre
• Lyceum Theatre
• Theatre Royale Drury Lane
• The Royal Opera House
• The Palace Theatre
• Her Majesty's Theatre

All this and more on a tour that truly uncovers centuries of London's theatrical secrets and stories!

Tour information

Reservations:  Required.  Click here to reserve . Walk-ups will be permitted if space is available.

Where:  Tour begins from outside Coutts Bank on the Strand. ( map ) 

The tour ends at Theatre Royal Haymarket

Duration:  Approximately 2.5 hours.

When:    View our Calendar .

Cost:  This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it's done. A  name-your-own-price tour  is a tour for anyone's budget.

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• English (United Kingdom)
• Française

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All You Need To Know About Visiting Covent Garden

Across 17 streets and one historic piazza, discover the very best of london., covent garden is in the heart of the west end, easily reached via tube, train, cycle, on foot, boat & taxi., from world-class fashion, beauty & lifestyle stores to the most exciting dining options, giving you expert advice....

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The 5 best sightseeing tours of buckingham palace.

See one of Britain's top attractions on a walking, biking, bus or private taxi tour.

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

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On a visit to London , some of the top attractions are linked to the royal family. But nothing is quite as iconic as a visit to the one of the three official residences of the monarchy – Buckingham Palace . While it's only open to the public on select dates, you can relish in its beauty from the regal gates, snap a selfie and catch a Changing the Guard ceremony.

How to Tour Buckingham Palace

For about 10 weeks every summer (select dates from July 11 to Sept. 29, 2024), Buckingham Palace opens its elaborate gates, welcoming visitors to explore its lavish State Rooms, grounds and Royal Collection artworks. The Royal Mews is also open to visitors from March to October, showcasing the Royal Family's real working stables and ornate, historic carriages – including the Gold State Coach used for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Coronation in 2022.

If you aren't here at the right time, fear not; this extravagant, 18th-century royal residence is just as impressive from the outside, making it worth a visit any time of year. Check online for a current schedule of the Changing the Guard ceremony – when the red-and-black-clad Royal Guard marches toward the palace, accompanied by striking military music – and see a tradition that's been running for more than 300 years. Combine it with explorations in the surrounding area of Westminster to see London at its most quintessential.

You can explore all of this independently, of course – but if you're looking to dig a little deeper, hear about the king's coronation and uncover local secrets, consider a guided London tour . Insider experts can point out the best photo spots, take you to the must-see sights and show you the ins and outs of the area, while sharing knowledge of the country's royal history along the way.

There are tons of options out there, so where do you start? Based on local knowledge and traveler review sites, here are some of the most highly rated tours.

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Price: From $13 Duration: 2 to 3 hours Standout perk: Witness the pomp of the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony.

Watch the Royal Guard march toward Buckingham Palace as you witness this historic, quintessentially British spectacle on a tour of Westminster's highlights. Accompanied by a military band, you'll see the Old Guard (soldiers on duty) switch to the New Guard as they arrive at the palace from Wellington Barracks. Your guide will explain which regiment is which, before taking you on a guided walking tour past other world-famous, attractions, including Big Ben, Clarence House, the Houses of Parliament , St James's Palace and Westminster Abbey .

Recent travelers gave high ratings to the tour, saying guides were able to take them to the best photo spots for the ceremony while offering a wealth of historical and entertaining insight.

Tours leave at 10 a.m. and depart from the Victoria Palace Theatre. The outings end at Parliament Square.

Local tip: Look at the Horse Guards Clock on the Horse Guards Parade – the official entrance to Buckingham Palace and St James's Palace – to see a dark stain above the 2 (II, in Roman numerals). It marks the time King Charles I was executed outside the Palace of Whitehall in 1649, after being charged with treason.

Check prices & availability on:

Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Tour

Price: From $161 Duration: 8.5 hours Standout perk: Get a rare chance to explore the State Rooms with Buckingham Palace tickets, and tick off two of the United Kingdom's grandest royal residences in one day.

This twin-castle tour offers the opportunity to enter Buckingham Palace and see its State Rooms, Royal Collection artwork and other treasures, with commentary from an audio guide. After you've toured the palace, you'll travel by coach about 25 miles west of London to Windsor Castle – the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and the family home of the monarchy for more than 900 years. Explore the castle's lavish State Apartments and grounds, and visit St George's Chapel – the burial place of Queen Elizabeth II alongside many other monarchs, and the spot where Prince Harry married Meghan Markle.

Recent travelers said the tour was a great opportunity to see inside both palaces. Several commented on the extensive art collection at Buckingham Palace, and many enjoyed hearing insights from the guides, although some complained about long lines.

The tour takes place from July through September on select Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and leaves from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m.

Local tip: Windsor Castle has its own Changing the Guard ceremony, as well as its own extensive art collection. The ceremony takes place at 11 a.m. on select days of the week.

Best of London Tour Including Tower of London and Changing of the Guard

Price: From $144; with optional London Eye or Harrods cream tea for an additional fee Duration: 9 hours Standout perk: You'll see many of London's key attractions in one day, and enjoy a river cruise thrown in for good measure.

If you want to combine a visit to see Buckingham Palace's Changing the Guard ceremony with stops at several other London spots, this is a great choice. The full-day trip begins at the UNESCO listed Tower of London where you'll have the chance to see the crown jewels.

From here, you'll visit Buckingham Palace to witness the famous pomp and pageantry of the ceremony and get the chance to admire the palace's impressive architecture from the outside. The day includes a tour of the elaborate St. Paul's Cathedral (not available on Sundays), before embarking on a boat tour of the Thames, passing key attractions including Tower Bridge and Shakespeare's Globe. The day also includes a photo stop at Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton married in 2011, and a brief walking tour of Parliament Square. Travelers can choose to add a ride on the famous London Eye observation wheel (or opt for a quintessentially British cream tea at Harrods instead).

Recent travelers loved the tour and praised the guides as highly knowledgeable and entertaining. Many were impressed with how much they saw in a day and said it gave them a great introduction to London (although it's worth noting a few felt there was quite a bit of walking involved).

Tours leave from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m. and finish at the London Eye.

Local tip: If you fancy delving deeper into the Tower of London in your own time, book a ticket to see the Ceremony of the Keys. Dating back seven centuries, this nightly ceremony is when the castle gets locked up for the night, with a special exchange between the sentry and Yeoman Warder taking place at 9:30 p.m. between the atmospheric battlements – both eerie and magical.

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London: Explore the Parks and Palaces on a Morning Bike Tour

Price: From $37 Duration: 3.5 hours Standout perk: Get active on two wheels, and combine a Buckingham Palace stop with a visit to Kensington Palace and other royal sights.

This half-day guided cycling tour is a great option to get active on your London trip. You'll start at Kensington Gardens – the home of Kensington Palace, where Princess Diana lived with the now King Charles, and Queen Victoria's birthplace. From here, pedal to the Royal Albert Hall to check out this elaborate concert hall, opened by Queen Victoria in 1871. Afterward, cycle through Hyde Park and on to Green Park to reach Buckingham Palace, where your guide will regale you with little-known stories about the palace. Continue on to Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as you take in some of the capital's key highlights, before returning to the Royal Parks.

Recent travelers raved about the tour and were impressed by the guides' knowledge. Many enjoyed the small group size and said the cycling was a good, leisurely pace, with plenty to see along the way, and iced tea and snacks included as a bonus.

The tour leaves from outside the main entrance at Hilton London Hyde Park. The recommended minimum age is 9 – you can pre-book junior bikes and child seats. While the bicycle and helmet for use during the tour are included, attraction entry fees are additional.

Local tip: If you've got time after the tour, it's well worth exploring Kensington Palace a bit more. Admire the elaborate, Georgian-era King's Staircase and the King's State Gallery with its fine art collection, see the Queen's State Apartments where Mary II would come to relax or welcome guests, and visit the Sunken Garden, once a favorite spot of Princess Diana's. After, enjoy afternoon tea or lunch at the Kensington Palace Pavilion amid the gardens.

The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

Price: From $482 Duration: 4 hours Standout perk: You'll see many of London's must-see attractions, and as it's a private tour, you can tailor the trip to your liking.

If you're after a private tour, this half-day trip in a classic London black cab is just the ticket.

You can choose to align your visit to Buckingham Palace with a Changing the Guard ceremony, and you'll get expert commentary from your personal taxi driver, who's also a registered tour guide. Alongside the palace, you'll pass must-see points including the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, St James's Palace, the Tower of London, Piccadilly Circus, Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market and Covent Garden , with options to stop along the way.

Recent travelers loved the tour and said guides were able to tailor the trip, stopping at spots both on and off the tourist trail and offering plenty of historical insight.

Your driver-guide can pick you up and drop you off at your hotel; or a central London location.

Local tip: Make a stop at Borough Market to try some of the best food in the city, with more than 100 stalls offering everything from Persian to Italian, alongside plenty of fresh produce.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura French is an award-winning British travel writer based in London. She grew up just outside the city and worked around the corner from Buckingham Palace for several years. She loves exploring the surrounding area, and used her own experience alongside online research to compile the roundup.

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13 Ideas For A 2-Day Trip To London With Kids

L ondon is one of the oldest and most exciting of the world's great cities. From phenomenal shopping to award-winning restaurants to some of the globe's best attractions, this exceptional city offers everything you'd want from a family vacation. Although it would take days, or better yet weeks, to truly explore the U.K.'s buzzy capital, there are plenty of ways to make the most out of a quick, 48-hour visit with kids.

Traveling with an aspiring history buff? The Tower of London will pique their interest with tales of war, murder, and imprisonment. Have a budding actor in tow? A West End musical is sure to inspire their love of theater. Perhaps your little one is obsessed with all things vehicular. Whether they adore buses, trains, or horses and buggies, they'll find it, and so much more, at the London Transport Museum. 

Although two days is a short time to spend in one of the world's greatest cities, it's easy to placate every family member with such an exhaustive list of places to visit. In addition to seeing the essential big-ticket attractions (i.e. Big Ben and Buckingham Palace), this list of the best things to do on a 2-day trip to London with kids will ensure you'll also experience some local, family-friendly fun.

Read more: 28 Bucket List Destinations That Everyone Needs To Experience At Least Once

Day One: Eat A Full English Breakfast

Assuming you aren't jetlagged, it's best to rise early and get the most out of your 48 hours in London. There's little worse than dragging hangry kids on a day of sightseeing, so feed them a hearty meal before setting off. London is known for its full English breakfasts, which consist of sausages, potatoes, eggs, tomatoes, and mushrooms.  Regency Café tops many lists of best breakfasts in London. Known for its affordable, full English breakfast, this is a hot spot for tourists and locals alike. You may recognize its Art Deco-styled interior from films like "Layer Cake" and  "Rocketman." Opened in 1946, this London staple lies in the borough of Westminster, almost equidistant from Pimlico and St. James Park tube stations. It's a mere 12-minute walk from Westminster Abbey and Big Ben, making this a perfect place to start a day of visiting attractions. 

Not a fan of the full English? There are plenty of tasty brekkies on offer at pubs and restaurants throughout the city, many of which include the classic jam and scone. Or, treat the kids to a meal they won't forget at Duck & Waffle , on the 40th floor of 110 Bishopsgate in London's business district. This "gastro diner" is open 24 hours, seven days a week, and is named for its signature dish. Don't worry, there are also plenty of kid-friendly options like bacon, eggs, pastries, and a vast array of flavored waffles to go with the impeccable view. 

Take A Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

While riding The Underground is one of the fastest (and cheapest) ways to get around London, climbing aboard a hop-on hop-off bus tour is much more fun, not to mention educational. Plus, it's rare to meet a kid who hates double-decker buses. Blanketing 607 square miles, the U.K.'s largest city provides tourists with a lot of ground to cover. And if you only have two days to explore London with kids, you'll want to make things as simple as possible. 

London's Big Bus Tours are more than worth the $58 for a one-day adult pass and $46 for kids. The 48-hour pass costs only $14 more, which is a bargain. These tickets also include a one-way Thames River cruise, which runs in either direction from Westminster to Tower Pier. Just hop back on the bus from a nearby stop to get back. To really package a deal, the Essential Ticket, which lasts 48 hours, gives you access to three guided walking tours -- Changing of the Guard, City of London, and Jack the Ripper. 

No matter which ticket you book, expect to see London's best attractions.  The three routes (Red, Blue, and Green) are covered on each tour and include stops at The London Eye, Whitehall, Covent Garden, London Bridge, Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park Corner, and Piccadilly Circus, to name a few. Let your mood, or better yet the kids, guide you to where you'll hop off next.

Ride The London Eye

Hop off the bus at The London Eye and get ready for a spectacular vista. Originally called the Millennium Wheel, this massive Ferris wheel (it's 443 feet tall) was supposed to be a temporary attraction. In fact, this extraordinary landmark was designed to be dismantled after five years. However, people wanted it to stay indefinitely. So it did! Today, the London Eye is the most popular paid-for visitor attraction in the U.K. The wheel consists of 32 "ovid capsules" that transport visitors super slowly (each one only revolves twice in one hour). They represent the 32 boroughs that make up Greater London and each one can hold 25 passengers. 

From the capsule, you'll be given a bird's eye view of London's architectural gems, like Westminster Abbey, Lambeth Palace, the Natural Museum of History, Buckingham Palace, and Whitehall Court. On a super clear day, you may even spy Windsor Castle and Wembley Stadium. Make the most of your  ride on the London Eye by booking tickets in advance. Also, try to plan your visit outside of holidays and summer weekends, if possible. When you've returned to the ground, walk across Westminster Bridge, stopping halfway for a photo op with the most magnificent backdrop -- Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. 

Say Hi To Big Ben

Visiting London without seeing Big Ben is akin to visiting Rome and skipping out on the Colosseum -- it just shouldn't be done. There's something magical about standing beneath the famed clock tower, which is actually named the Elizabeth Tower -- Big Ben is the name of the great bell inside. A whopping 226 feet high, this often-photographed monument is as tall as 21 London buses stacked on top of each other. While the tower's smaller quarter bells chime every 15 minutes, Big Ben itself tolls upon the hour.

With experience as a guide, it's recommended that you cross the street to Parliament Square. Kids will love running up and down the pathway to examine the bronze statues of Nelson Mandela and an imposing Sir Winston Churchill in the garden. Westminster Abbey lies just across the Square. If your little ones are up for exploring this beloved attraction, you'll be happy you spent the time. While inside, ask a staff member to point out the Family Trail. Kids can get a free badge at the shop after they've found the items on the list. Once finished at the Abbey, walk back towards Elizabeth Tower and you'll find Westminster Pier. This is a popular launch for Thames River cruises.

Take A River Cruise

River Thames sightseeing cruises leave from Westminster Pier and travel as far as Greenwich Pier. If you didn't opt for a bus tour that includes a cruise, this is a bucket-list activity your family won't want to miss -- seeing London's landmarks from the river offers a whole new perspective of their magnificence. Since you're pressed for time, the best route is a one-way ticket to Tower Bridge Quay. The trip will take about 30 minutes and passes many impressive attractions along the way, including the OXO Tower, St. Paul's Cathedral, The Tate Modern, Globe Theatre, and The Shard. At around $15 for adults over 16 and $10 for children ages 5 to 15, one-way cruises are pretty cheap.

The crew and skippers on these cruises are friendly and knowledgeable, offering interesting, and often funny, historical tidbits during their commentary. This is where many tourists learn about the (possibly true) legend of OXO's clever marketing scheme. When their application to add an illuminated sign outside their building was turned down in the late 1920s (advertising wasn't allowed on the South Bank), they integrated their three letters into the design. It still stands today. When the tour comes to an end, you'll embark at the Tower Bridge Quay, mere steps from one of London's most famous landmarks -- The Tower of London.

Tour The Tower Of London

As mentioned above, it's a short walk from Tower Bridge Quay to the Tower of London . Tower Hill Underground Station is five minutes away by foot and multiple buses stop nearby, making this an easy place to visit no matter where you're staying in London. Plan to spend a minimum of two hours at this attraction as there's a lot to see. Highlights include ogling the Crown Jewels, seeing the Royal Armories collections in The White Tower, and visiting the prison in the Bloody Tower. This is where you'll learn about murder plots and discover ancient torture methods. Search the Beauchamp Tower for graffiti made by prisoners in the 16th century. Your kids won't forget this experience!  

Two main eateries lie inside the Tower for when hunger pangs hit -- New Armories Café and Ravens Café. But, the meals can get pricey and often aren't as tasty as the nearby, budget-friendly, and kid-loved noodle restaurant, Wagamama. The Tower Hill location is just outside the main gate and boasts a fabulous view of Tower Bridge and a children's menu. Tickets to the Tower cost about $41 per adult and $20 per child between 5 and 15, so stay as long as possible to get your money's worth. Tip: Save money by purchasing The London Pass by Go City. You'll save up to 50% off major attractions like Westminster Abbey, The Tower of London, and Kensington Palace, as well as hop-on-hop-off bus tours and more.

Visit A Museum

If anyone has energy left, make your way to the Science Museum in South Kensington. It's one of the best museums to visit in London  with children. If your kids don't find hands-on gaming experiences, interactive experiments, or rockets exciting, the Natural History Museum and its vast display of dinosaurs are a mere one-minute walk away. And the V&A (Victoria & Albert) museum's art and design exhibits are just as close. Tip: The V&A Café is a must-visit if only to gawk at the impressive architecture and décor. It's the world's oldest museum restaurant. Enjoy a quick tea and scone or play hide and seek around the columns. Museum Mile, which is home to 13 museums, is located in the center of London. If those three don't pique your interest, you're sure to find something everyone will love. The best part? Admission is free for almost all of these museums

South Kensington is packed with restaurants that will please pretty much any palate. From oysters to Italian food to Indian dishes and high-end fare, tourists are spoiled for choice. If your crew is hungry, choose a restaurant that's right for you before heading back to your hotel.

Day Two: Wave To The King At Buckingham Palace

Start day two with a trip to Buckingham Palace. The London home of Britain's Royal family since 1837, this famous landmark is worth a visit, even if you merely walk around the perimeter. The State Rooms are open for tours over 10 weeks each summer. Book in advance as they fill up quickly. Certain exclusive guided tours are also available in winter and spring. Those hoping to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony should plan to arrive by 10:30 a.m. as the ceremony starts at 11 a.m. It doesn't last long and gets very crowded during the high season. Also, it's best to confirm the date and time before you go. The ceremony doesn't always take place. 

The Palace neighbors St. James's Park, known as "the most royal of London's Royal Parks." This is where you'll find impeccable views of Buckingham Palace from across the lake, and you may come face-to-beak with a pelican. Popular attractions like the Horse Guards Parade and the Admiralty Arch are also found here.

Walk To Trafalgar Square

From Buckingham Palace, walk along the Mall to Trafalgar Square, which will take about 20 minutes. You'll pass St. James's Park on your right and the Horse Guards Parade, as well as the Admiralty Arch. A great route for sightseeing, you'll pass enough attractions along the way to keep kids of all ages interested. They may even be distracted enough to not realize how far they've walked. Once you reach Trafalgar Square, it's time to take the obligatory tourist photos of the bronze lions and Nelson's Column. You'll have to stand quite far back to fit the entire column in the frame. There are public toilets as well as a café here if any of your crew is in need of a quick respite. 

Otherwise, you can head into the National Gallery to soak up some culture and admire the incredible works of art on display. Admission is free, the bathrooms are much nicer than those found outside, and there are three places to grab a warm coffee or bite to eat. Throughout the year, there are family activities, like kid-friendly tours and creative drawing programs.

Watch Buskers And Visit The Transport Museum In Covent Garden

If the kids are still up for walking, make your way to Covent Garden, which is another eight minutes away on foot. Otherwise, hop back on your bus tour or hail a black cab. Buskers, sweets shops, and the Transport Museum will have children enthralled by this bustling neighborhood. Covent Garden's Market plays host to a bevy of handmade jewelry, arts, crafts, and soaps, among other products, and Neal's Yard is home to colorful shops and delicious restaurants.  St JOHN Bakery  serves up "London's fluffiest doughnuts," while Homeslice boasts pizza so delicious, you'll want seconds.

While you're in the West End, why not check out a musical? Many offer matinee performances once during the week and on weekends. Children under age 4 aren't permitted at some theaters, and others say children between ages 3 and 7 will be asked to leave if they become too restless, so keep that in mind if you're traveling with little ones. The Theatre Royal Drury Lane (which is currently showing "Frozen: The Musical") is a four-minute walk from Covent Garden.

Shop At Hamley's

Placate the kids with a shopping spree on Regent Street, which is easily reached by hopping on the Tube at Covent Garden Station. Want to win parent of the year? Get off at Picadilly Circus and walk the eight minutes to Hamleys , deemed by many to be the "finest toy shop in the world." It's also the largest, boasting seven floors filled with every stuffed toy and gadget a child could dream of. Shopping here is an adventure in and of itself. There are often toy demonstrations that include free manicures (for kids) and testing of the latest and greatest gizmos. Don't miss the life-sized LEGO statue of King Charles. Regent Street's not just for kids. 

This shopping wonderland is home to Massimo Dutti, Karl Lagerfeld, Burberry, and the stunning Liberty London, a historic department store set in a heritage-listed building. There are also cafés, restaurants, and pubs on hand to satiate anyone who's ready for a snack. When you've finished giving your wallet a workout, hop back in the tube at Oxford Circus and make your way to Queensway. Walk into Kensington Gardens and you'll find the Diana Memorial Playground on your right before you reach Kensington Palace and Round Pond. 

Run Around At Diana Memorial Playground

Park yourself, and your newly purchased packages, on a bench while the kids run wild at this Peter Pan-themed play space. Built in honor of Princess Diana, children can walk the plank on a pirate ship, hide in a teepee, or dig for buried treasure in the ginormous sandbox at this fantastic playground. A highlight for tourists traveling to London with kids, this park receives more than one million visitors each year, so be prepared to wait, especially if you're planning to arrive during a holiday, in summer, or on a warm and sunny day. At peak times, the wait can be up to one hour. Luckily, the Broad Walk Café is open daily from 9 a.m. to serve parents a much-needed specialty coffee or tea, as well as pastries, pizza, sandwiches, and ice cream for little ones.

Save a bit of time to wander around Kensington Gardens, another magnificent Royal Park that was once the private gardens of Kensington Palace. Lead the kids on a scavenger hunt to find the Peter Pan statue. It lies by The Long Water, just across from Hyde Park.

Have Afternoon Tea

What's a trip to London without afternoon tea ? While there are plenty of places to get a proper tea service, there are also plenty of kid-friendly tea options. Head to The Ampersand Hotel in South Kensington (by black cab is easiest) for an experience every child will love -– Kid's Jurassic Afternoon Tea. For around $43 per child, they'll fill up on enough sammies, scones, and pastries that they probably won't need dinner. Everything is served in a tiered dinosaur tray with dry ice. 

Peppa Pig's Afternoon Tea Bus Tour is a must for fans of The Pig Wonder. For a full 90 minutes, you and your tykes will be transported via double-decker bus past some of London's most famous landmarks. As you ride, Peppa Pig will guide you on a built-in tablet. There's a sing-a-long, too, so warm up your voices before boarding and prepare to oink. You'll also receive a themed tea service. These tours are available two to three times daily from Thursday to Sunday and depart from Somerset House. Tickets begin at $59 per adult or $47 per child. 

Another fun option is the Paddington Afternoon Tea Bus Tour. This 1:45-hour ride takes visitors past Paddington's favorite Central London attractions with narration from the bear himself via a tablet at each table. Tours run twice daily from Wednesday to Sunday and leave from Trafalgar Square. Tickets start at $55 per adult and $43 per child and include marmalade sandwiches (obviously) as well as other tasty treats and tea, of course.

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