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Big Bus Tours London: Iconic Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Experience

Explore London’s iconic landmarks at your own pace with Big Bus Tours’ flexible hop-on hop-off routes and panoramic open-top buses.

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Big Bus Tours London offers a comprehensive hop-on hop-off sightseeing service covering the city's most famous landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey. Operating multiple routes with frequent departures, it provides flexible exploration with English-speaking guides and multilingual audio commentary. Ideal for first-time visitors, it combines convenience with panoramic views from open-top buses and optional river cruises along the Thames.

A brief summary to Big Bus Tours London

  • 110 Buckingham Palace Rd, London, SW1W 9SA, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 6 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to save money and avoid higher on-site prices.
  • Use the hop-on hop-off service to explore major landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London at your own pace.
  • Consider adding the optional Thames River cruise for a unique view of London’s riverside landmarks.
  • Be prepared for possible audio issues; bringing your own headphones can improve the commentary experience.
  • Plan your route ahead to manage time effectively, especially during peak traffic hours.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Reach the Big Bus Tours starting point at 110 Buckingham Palace Road via London Underground Victoria Station, served by the Victoria, District, and Circle lines. The station is approximately a 5-10 minute walk. Expect typical London Tube fares ranging from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on ticket type.

  • Bus

    Several London bus routes stop near Buckingham Palace Road, including routes 11, 24, and 148. Bus journeys vary from 15 to 30 minutes from central locations, with a standard fare of £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment.

  • Taxi or Ride-Hailing

    Black cabs and ride-hailing services like Uber can drop you directly at the Big Bus Tours location. Journey times vary with traffic, typically 15-30 minutes from central London. Expect fares between £10 and £20 depending on distance and time of day.

  • Walking

    If staying near Victoria or Buckingham Palace, walking to the Big Bus Tours stop is feasible within 10-15 minutes. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most travelers.

Big Bus Tours London location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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A Flexible Way to Discover London’s Highlights

Big Bus Tours London is a premier hop-on hop-off sightseeing service that allows travelers to explore London’s iconic landmarks at their own pace. With multiple interconnected routes including the Red, Blue, and Green lines, the tour covers over 40 stops, connecting key attractions such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Hyde Park. This flexibility lets visitors hop off to explore sites in depth or stay aboard for a panoramic city overview.

Routes and Iconic Landmarks

The Red Route focuses on central London’s historic and political landmarks, including Big Ben, Parliament, and the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. The Blue Route extends westward to Kensington Palace and Notting Hill, passing through museums and parks, while the Green Route links major transport hubs like King’s Cross and St Pancras with cultural hotspots such as the British Museum. Each route offers engaging audio commentary available in multiple languages, enhancing the sightseeing experience.

Comfort and Onboard Experience

The open-top double-decker buses provide excellent photo opportunities and fresh air, though seating comfort can vary. Commentary is delivered both live by guides and via recorded audio, offering historical insights, anecdotes, and cultural context. Some travelers note occasional audio issues, but the overall informative narration helps bring London’s rich history to life. The buses run frequently, approximately every 20-30 minutes, ensuring minimal wait times despite London’s busy traffic.

Additional Experiences and Services

Beyond the bus tours, Big Bus London offers optional extras such as a 30-minute Thames River cruise, providing unique perspectives of riverside landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and Tower Bridge. Guided walking tours complement the bus routes for a deeper dive into London’s neighborhoods. The company also offers special evening tours and themed routes, catering to diverse interests and schedules.

Location and Accessibility

The main boarding point near 110 Buckingham Palace Road situates visitors close to Victoria Station and Buckingham Palace, making it easily accessible by public transport. The service is suitable for families, solo travelers, and those seeking a comprehensive introduction to London’s sprawling urban landscape. While the tour is generally accessible, some stops and buses may have limited wheelchair access.

Considerations for Visitors

While Big Bus Tours London is a convenient way to cover many attractions, some visitors find the experience less personal than guided walking tours. Traffic congestion can affect timing, and the large number of stops means the full circuit can take several hours. Tickets purchased online offer savings compared to on-site prices. Overall, it remains a popular choice for those wanting a broad yet flexible London sightseeing experience.

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