The London Time Tour Bus
Rating
Family of 4
USD 100–150
Duration
2–3 hours
Best Ages
4 and up
About
The London Time Tour Bus brings a creative storytelling twist to the classic hop-on hop-off double-decker experience, using historical narration and multimedia to transport passengers through London's past as they travel through the present. For families with children who love history, the concept is uniquely engaging: as the bus passes significant locations, the commentary connects the modern view with what stood there in previous centuries — from Roman Londinium to Tudor courts to Victorian-era street life. The combination of real-world sightseeing and time-layered storytelling helps children build a mental map of how the city evolved over time, making what they're seeing feel richer and more meaningful.
The physical experience is that of a traditional open-top London bus, with the upper deck offering panoramic views of the city's skyline and major landmarks. The enclosed lower deck keeps things comfortable on grey days. Stops are positioned at the city's most historically significant sites, so families who want to hop off and explore further have excellent options at every point.
Tickets are valid for an extended period, giving flexibility to break the experience into morning and afternoon sessions if that suits your family's rhythm better. Children who've studied British history at school or who are avid readers of historical fiction will find this tour particularly satisfying as a complement to classroom learning.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Nursing / Changing
Not on board; available at stop attractions
Kid Meals
No food on board
Setting
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Morning when top deck is less crowded
Wait Times
10–20 minutes between buses
Nearby Food
Stops near Westminster, the South Bank, and the Tower of London all have extensive food and cafe options within easy walking distance
Why Kids Love It
The London Time Tour Bus adds an immersive historical storytelling element to the classic double-decker format, making the journey feel like a time-travel experience. Kids are captivated by the idea of seeing what London looked like in different eras as they pass through the same streets today.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Sit near a window on the upper deck to follow the landmarks as the commentary describes them
- Bring a simple London history book or printed timeline to engage older kids further
- Start at a central stop like Waterloo or Victoria to get the most out of the route
What to Bring
- Warm layers for the open deck even in summer — London temperatures drop quickly
- A notebook for kids who want to draw or write down what they learn
- Snacks and drinks for the ride
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
USD 100–150
Tips to Save
- Combine with a Thames cruise for a discounted dual-experience package
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- Closed
- Monday
- Closed
- Sunday
- 2:45 – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday
- Closed
- Saturday
- 2:45 – 4:00 PM
- Thursday
- Closed
- Wednesday
- Closed