Afternoon Tea at the Rubens at the Palace + Hop-On Hop-Off London + Thames River Cruise
From
$144.02 $160.02
Attention: Please note that Due to ongoing heavy traffic around the Lambeth Bridge area, Stop 12 – Horseferry Road will be suspended Monday to Friday until further notice. The stop will continue to be served on Saturdays and Sundays only. During weekdays, the nearest alternative boarding point is Stop 10 – Westminster Pier (next to Big Ben).
Highlights
Unlimited 24‑hour Hop‑On Hop‑Off bus access to all major London landmarks
Cruise along the River Thames with stunning views to and from Greenwich Pier
Savour a traditional afternoon tea at the elegant Rubens at the Palace Hotel
Included
24-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour to enjoy amazing views
Hop off near must-see sights
Set sail on a scenic river cruise
Indulge in Afternoon Tea at the Rubens at the Palace
Description
Afternoon Tea at the Rubens at the Palace
Take part in a quintessential British tradition in the elegant Palace Lounge at The Rubens at the Palace Hotel, just steps from Buckingham Palace. Treat yourself to a tasteful assortment of delicately curated finger sandwiches, from classic cucumber and dill crème fraîche to top-quality smoked salmon with chive cream cheese and roast sirloin of beef, horseradish cream and rocket. We don’t know about you, but our mouths are watering just thinking about them!
Those of you with a sweet tooth will be spoilt for choice! Indulge in homemade scones with seasonal preserves, lemon curd and clotted cream and other dainty sweets and pastries. A slab of citrus pistachio tart? Yes, please. Slice of rhubarb and vanilla layer cake? Don’t mind if we do!
And what could be more British than a nice cup of tea? Choose from a variety of high‑quality loose‑leaf teas—black, green, white or herbal blends. As you sip and sup in comfort and style, relax and watch royal carriages coming and going.
Hop-On Hop-Off London
Also included in your ticket is a hop-on hop-off sightseeing adventure! With unlimited rides across all three of our routes for 24 hours and bus stops placed throughout the city, you can explore at your own pace—hop off and explore, then hop back on wherever you please.
Sitting up top on our open-air double-decker bus in London is special. Is that the London Eye twirling? Did you just pass Piccadilly Circus? Every corner you turn is like a postcard. Among the world-famous sites you’ll see on our routes are:
- London Eye: this giant observation wheel on the River Thames offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
- The Tower of London: a historic fortress and former royal palace, the Tower of London is famous for the Crown Jewels, its medieval architecture and bloody tales of intrigue and imprisonment.
- Big Ben: the iconic clock tower of the UK Parliament (technically named the Elizabeth Tower). Its chimes are world-famous, and it's one of London’s most photographed landmarks.
- Buckingham Palace: the official residence of the British monarch in London. Known for its iconic façade and the Changing of the Guard ceremony, it’s a must-see for visitors interested in the British Royal Family and royal traditions.
- Tower Bridge: a striking Victorian bascule bridge known for its twin towers and glass-floored walkway. It offers great views and insights into London’s engineering history.
- Westminster Abbey: this magnificent Gothic church is where British monarchs are crowned and many historical figures are buried.
- Trafalgar Square: a lively public square in central London, Trafalgar Square is home to Nelson’s Column, fountains and the National Gallery.*
Thames River Cruise
Included in your 24‑hour ticket is a Thames River cruise. This really is the best way to see London from the water and enjoy panoramic views of riverside landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge from our open upper deck.
As you sail past the popular London attractions, listen to our live commentary, which tells insightful and fascinating stories of this glorious capital city.
Book today to enjoy this brilliant London package.
Before you go
IMPORTANT
For full details on service updates and route changes, please consult the London Service Update page.
Afternoon Tea at the Rubens at the Palace
- Please select time when booking.
- You will require a printed copy of your ticket.
- Please arrive at the hotel 15 minutes prior to your booked time.
- The Rubens at The Palace accommodates tables of up to 8 guests.
- Allergies/Dietary Restrictions: Please inform us of any dietary requirements 48 hours in advance, including requests for vegetarian, vegan, halal or gluten-free Afternoon Teas. Please note that due to the nature of their business and offering the hotel cannot guarantee 100% allergen or intolerant-free recipes/dishes.
- Menus listed are samples and subject to variations.
- Dress code: Smart casual. We respectfully ask guests to refrain from wearing sportswear, flip-flops, and non-tailored shorts. Guests not adhering to the dress code policy will not be permitted entry into our restaurants and bars.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
You can start your journey at any of our stops.
Timetable:
Red Route
- Stop 1 – Belvedere Road: First Bus: 08:45 | Last Full Loop: 18:30 | Last Bus: 18:30
- Stop 2 – Aldwych No 1: First Bus: 08:50 | Last Full Loop: 16:05 | Last Bus: 18:35
- Stop 3 – Ludgate Hill, St Pauls Cathedral: First Bus: 09:00 | Last Full Loop: 16:15 | Last Bus: 18:45
- Stop 4 – Cannon Street - The City: First Bus: 09:05 | Last Full Loop: 16:20 | Last Bus: 18:50
- Stop 5 – London Bridge: First Bus: 09:12 | Last Full Loop: 16:27 | Last Bus: 18:57
- Stop 6 – Borough Market: First Bus: 09:14 | Last Full Loop: 16:29 | Last Bus: 18:59
- Stop 7 – Tooley Street, Tower Bridge: First Bus: 09:18 | Last Full Loop: 16:33 | Last Bus: 19:03
- Stop 8 – Tower Hill, Tower Hill Station: First Bus: 08:45 | Last Full Loop: 16:44 | Last Bus: 19:14
- Stop 9 – Victoria Embankment, Temple: First Bus: 08:56 | Last Full Loop: 16:55 | Last Bus: 19:25
- Stop 10 – Victoria Embankment, Westminster Pier: First Bus: 09:00 | Last Full Loop: 16:59 | Last Bus: 19:29
- Stop 11 – Westminster Bridge (London Eye) EAST: First Bus: 09:05 | Last Full Loop: 17:04 | Last Bus: 19:34
- Stop 12 – Horseferry Road: First Bus: 09:11 | Last Full Loop: 17:10 | Last Bus: 19:40
- Stop 13 – Buckingham Gate, Queens Gallery: First Bus: 09:16 | Last Full Loop: 17:15 | Last Bus: 19:45
- Stop 14 – Cardinal Place, Coach Stop 16: First Bus: 09:19 | Last Full Loop: 17:18 | Last Bus: 19:48
- Stop 15 – Buckingham Palace Rd, Clermont Hotel: First Bus: 09:22 | Last Full Loop: 17:21 | Last Bus: 19:51
- Stop 16 – Colonades - Stand Z12: First Bus: 09:24 | Last Full Loop: 17:23 | Last Bus: 19:53
- Stop 17 – Grosvenor Gardens, Oxford Tube 10A: First Bus: 09:32 | Last Full Loop: 17:31 | Last Bus: 20:01
- Stop 18 – Queen Elizabeth Gate, Hyde Park: First Bus: 09:37 | Last Full Loop: 17:36 | Last Bus: 20:06
- Stop 19 – Marble Arch, Speakers Corner: First Bus: 09:40 | Last Full Loop: 17:39 | Last Bus: 20:09
- Stop 20 – Park Lane, Marble Arch: First Bus: 09:44 | Last Full Loop: 17:43 | Last Bus: 20:13
- Stop 21 – Park Lane, Hilton: First Bus: 09:47 | Last Full Loop: 17:46 | Last Bus: 20:16
- Stop 22 – Piccadilly, Hard Rock Café: First Bus: 09:51 | Last Full Loop: 17:50 | Last Bus: 20:20
- Stop 23 – Green Park: First Bus: 08:53 | Last Full Loop: 17:52 | Last Bus: 20:22
- Stop 24 – Haymarket: First Bus: 09:19 | Last Full Loop: 18:04 | Last Bus: 20:30
- Stop 25 – Pall Mall East, Trafalgar Square: First Bus: 09:23 | Last Full Loop: 18:08 | Last Bus: 20:32
- Stop 26 – Whitehall, Banquetting House: First Bus: 09:27 | Last Full Loop: 18:12 | Last Bus: 20:36
- Stop 27 – Westminster Bridge, London Eye WEST: First Bus: 09:30 | Last Full Loop: 18:17 | Last Bus: 20:41
Blue Route
- Stop 20 – Marble Arch: First Bus: 09:30 | Last Full Loop: 16:40 | Last Bus: 17:40
- Stop 21 – Park Lane Hilton: First Bus: 09:33 | Last Full Loop: 16:43 | Last Bus: 17:43
- Stop 31 – Hyde Park Corner: First Bus: 08:37 | Last Full Loop: 16:47 | Last Bus: 17:47
- Stop 32 – Brompton Road: First Bus: 08:41 | Last Full Loop: 16:51 | Last Bus: 17:51
- Stop 33 – Thurlow Place: First Bus: 08:45 | Last Full Loop: 16:55 | Last Bus: 17:55
- Stop 34 – Gloucester Road: First Bus: 08:52 | Last Full Loop: 17:02 | Last Bus: 18:02
- Stop 35 – Royal Albert Hall: First Bus: 08:58 | Last Full Loop: 17:08 | Last Bus: 18:08
- Stop 36 – Palace Gate: First Bus: 09:00 | Last Full Loop: 17:10 | Last Bus: 18:10
- Stop 37 – Kensington Palace: First Bus: 09:02 | Last Full Loop: 17:12 | Last Bus: 18:12
- Stop 38 – Notting Hill Gate: First Bus: 09:10 | Last Full Loop: 17:20 | Last Bus: 18:20
- Stop 39 – Bayswater Road St Petersburg Place: First Bus: 09:12 | Last Full Loop: 17:22 | Last Bus: 18:22
- Stop 40 – Bayswater Road Thistle: First Bus: 09:15 | Last Full Loop: 17:25 | Last Bus: 18:25
- Stop 41 – Lancaster Road Stop LE: First Bus: 09:17 | Last Full Loop: 17:27 | Last Bus: 18:27
Green Route
Route departures
Stop 1 – Belvedere Road
- Monday–Thursday: 09:10, 09:30, 10:30, 16:10, 16:40, 17:10, 17:40
- Friday–Sunday: 09:10, 09:30, 10:30, 15:10, 15:40, 16:10, 16:30, 16:50, 17:10, 17:30
Stop 2 – Aldwych - Monday–Thursday: 09:16, 09:36, 10:36, 16:16, 16:46, 17:16, 17:46
- Friday–Sunday: 09:16, 09:36, 10:36, 15:16, 15:46, 16:16, 16:36, 16:56, 17:16, 17:36
Stop 51 – Southampton Row - Monday–Thursday: 08:41, 08:56, 09:11, 09:26, 09:46, 10:46, 16:26, 16:56, 17:26, 17:56
- Friday–Sunday: 08:41, 08:56, 09:11, 09:26, 09:46, 10:46, 15:26, 15:56, 16:26, 16:46, 17:06, 17:26, 17:46
Stop 52 – Woburn Place, Stop H - Monday–Thursday: 08:45, 09:00, 09:15, 09:30, 09:50, 10:50, 16:30, 17:00, 17:30, 18:00
- Friday–Sunday: 08:45, 09:00, 09:15, 09:30, 09:50, 10:50, 15:30, 16:00, 16:30, 16:50, 17:10, 17:30, 17:50
Stop 53 – Southampton Row Shop - Monday–Thursday: 08:50, 09:05, 09:20, 09:35, 09:55, 10:55, 16:35, 17:05, 17:35, 18:05
- Friday–Sunday: 08:50, 09:05, 09:20, 09:35, 09:55, 10:55, 15:35, 16:05, 16:35, 16:55, 17:15, 17:35, 17:55
Stop 54 – British Museum - Monday–Thursday: 08:52, 09:07, 09:22, 09:37, 09:57, 10:57, 16:37, 17:07, 17:37, 18:07
- Friday–Sunday: 08:52, 09:07, 09:22, 09:37, 09:57, 10:57, 15:37, 16:07, 16:37, 16:57, 17:17, 17:37, 17:57
Stop 55 – Shaftesbury Avenue - Monday–Thursday: 08:59, 09:14, 09:29, 09:44, 10:04, 11:04, 16:44, 17:14, 17:44, 18:14
- Friday–Sunday: 08:59, 09:14, 09:29, 09:44, 10:04, 11:04, 15:44, 16:14, 16:44, 17:04, 17:24, 17:44, 18:04
Stop 24 – Haymarket - Monday–Thursday: 09:04, 09:19, 09:34, 09:49, 10:09, 11:09, 15:53, 16:49, 17:19, 17:49, 18:19
- Friday–Sunday: 09:04, 09:19, 09:34, 09:49, 10:09, 11:09, 15:49, 16:19, 16:49, 17:09, 17:29, 17:49, 18:09
Stop 25 – Pall Mall East - Monday–Thursday: 09:06, 09:21, 09:36, 09:51, 10:11, 15:55, 16:51, 17:21
- Friday–Sunday: 09:06, 09:21, 09:36, 09:51, 10:11, 15:51, 16:21, 16:51, 17:11, 17:31
Stop 26 – Whitehall - Monday–Thursday: 09:10, 09:25, 09:40, 09:55, 10:15, 15:59, 16:55, 17:25
- Friday–Sunday: 09:10, 09:25, 09:40, 09:55, 10:15, 15:55, 16:25, 16:55, 17:15, 17:35
Stop 27 – Westminster Bridge / London Eye - Monday–Thursday: 09:15, 09:30, 09:45, 10:00, 10:20, 16:04, 17:00, 17:30
- Friday–Sunday: 09:15, 09:30, 09:45, 10:00, 10:20, 16:00, 16:30, 17:00, 17:20, 17:40
Stop 1 – Belvedere Road
End of journey - Monday–Thursday arrival times: 09:20, 09:35, 09:50, 10:05, 10:25, 16:09, 17:05, 17:35
- Friday–Sunday arrival times: 09:20, 09:35, 09:50, 10:05, 10:25, 16:05, 16:35, 17:05, 17:25, 17:45
- Scheduled times may be affected by London traffic, road closures and other operational conditions. Please use the City Sightseeing London app for live service information and updates.
For your attention
- Our buses are wheelchair accessible.
- Dogs in carriers are permitted on the bus.
Kids commentary: Blue Route – Mia Cloo’s London Quest
- Ask your driver for a free copy of our Mia Cloo’s London Quest booklet. Available in English.
River Cruise
- You can start the cruise from either pier. The 24-hour ticket includes a same day return trip to and from Greenwich Pier.
- You will be given your cruise ticket when you redeem your voucher on the bus.
- Departures every 40 minutes
- Duration: Approx 35 minutes
24-hour river cruise ticket:
- First departure (both piers): 10:00
- Last departure (from Tower pier): 18.55
- Last departure (from Westminster): 19.20
Customer Advisory:
We encourage all customers to stay informed of the latest service updates.
Please consult with our uniformed staff on-site or contact our service hotline at 02039501262 for real-time information.
Cancellation Policy
Hop-On Hop-Off London: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the chosen travel date.
Afternoon Tea at The Rubens: Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the chosen travel date.