If you live in the UK or have spent any time planning a trip to London, you’ve likely seen those iconic, vibrant red double-decker buses cruising through the streets. But these aren’t your average commute-to-work buses. They are the famous Brigits Bakery buses, and for the longest time, I was convinced they were just a tourist trap. I mean, eating scones while navigating London traffic? It sounded a bit chaotic.
However, after hearing friends talk about their experiences and seeing the endless stream of photos on social media, I finally decided to bite the bullet. I booked a table—or rather, a seat—and went along to see if the experience actually lived up to the reputation. Whether you are looking for a quirky date idea or just want to see the city from a different perspective, here is my take on the whole experience.
First Impressions: Getting On Board
When I arrived at the meeting point near Victoria, I have to admit, I felt a little bit giddy. The buses are impeccably maintained, painted that signature bright blue and white, and they really stand out against the grey London backdrop. Checking in was a breeze. The staff were incredibly friendly, which set a great tone for the afternoon.
Once I climbed the stairs to the top deck, I was surprised by how cozy it felt. The tables are small—as you’d expect on a vintage bus—but they’ve managed to fit everything perfectly. Each table is set with a tray of sandwiches and cakes, and the tea is served in clever, spill-proof cups. It felt like a little sanctuary moving through the busiest parts of the city.
The Food: More Than Just A Gimmick
I went into this expecting the food to be secondary to the view. I’m usually pretty picky about my afternoon tea—there’s nothing worse than a dry scone or a soggy cucumber sandwich. To my surprise, the quality was genuinely high. The selection included the classics: finger sandwiches, savory tarts, and a beautiful array of pastries and macarons.
One of my favorite parts was the freshness. Everything tasted like it had been prepared that morning at their physical bakery. The clotted cream and jam were generous, and the scones were still warm when we reached the midway point of the tour. It’s not often you get high-end patisserie while watching the Houses of Parliament zip past your window.
I found some others who had taken the tour recently to compare notes:
“I wasn’t sure if the food would be stale, but the sandwiches were lovely and the mini cakes were actual works of art. Highly recommend the chocolate tart!” – Sarah J., London
The Experience: Seeing London Differently
The route takes you past all the big hits: Big Ben, the London Eye, Trafalgar Square, and Piccadilly Circus. Seeing these landmarks from the elevated height of a vintage bus makes them feel completely different. You’re not just walking past them; you’re cruising by at a leisurely pace, tea in hand, which is honestly the most civilized way to sightsee.
There was a moment where we were stuck in a bit of traffic near St. James’s Park, but honestly, I didn’t mind. It gave me more time to focus on my mini quiche and chat with my friend. The bus has a gentle hum, and the music played at a low volume, which kept the atmosphere relaxed. It wasn’t loud or intrusive; it just felt like a special afternoon out.
“We did this for my sister’s birthday and it was the highlight of our trip. The staff were so accommodating, and even when we hit traffic, the views were just stunning.” – Mark T., Manchester
Logistics and Practical Tips
If you are planning to go, here are a few things I wish I knew beforehand. First, book as early as you can. These buses fill up weeks, sometimes months, in advance—especially on weekends. If you have a specific date in mind, don’t wait until the last minute.
Also, consider your seating. The top deck is obviously where you want to be for the best views, but be mindful that the stairs are steep. If you have mobility issues, they have options, but it is worth checking with them directly. The staff are very helpful if you have dietary requirements, too—they handled my friend’s gluten-free request without any fuss at all.
“The dietary options were actually great. Often, gluten-free tea means one sad biscuit, but they gave me a full, varied spread that looked exactly like everyone else’s.” – Elena R., Brighton
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth The Price?
Let’s talk money for a second. It isn’t cheap. You are paying for the food, the service, and the unique experience of being chauffeured around London in a classic vehicle. When you look at the price of a standard afternoon tea at a top hotel in the city, the Brigits Bakery bus actually lands in a similar bracket.
For me, it felt like a worthwhile treat. I wouldn’t do it every weekend, but for a special occasion, or if you have friends visiting from out of town who want to see London in style, it’s a brilliant choice. It takes the stress out of planning a day of sightseeing. You get your lunch, your caffeine fix, and a tour of the city all wrapped into one seamless experience.
“It’s a bit pricey, but you’re paying for the novelty and the convenience. We had a blast and would definitely book again for the Christmas lights tour.” – Dave P., Leeds
Ultimately, I think what makes this work is that they don’t take themselves too seriously. It’s fun, it’s vibrant, and it celebrates the quirkiness of London. If you go in with an open mind, ready to enjoy some decent pastries and look out the window at some of the world’s most famous architecture, you’ll have a great time.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely. It’s one of those experiences that feels quintessentially “London” without being overly stuffy or boring. Just make sure you bring a camera—you’re going to want to snap a few photos of the scones against the backdrop of Big Ben!
