Londoners and tourists can enjoy festive lights, seasonal treats, and joyful music aboard TOOTBus’s open-top Christmas ride.
BY FRANCESCA RAPISARDA
Londoners and visitors alike are being treated to a unique festive experience this holiday season as TOOTBus launches its Christmas Lights Tour, offering passengers a magical evening ride on an open-top double-decker bus through the capital’s most iconic illuminated streets.
The tour, which runs from mid-November until early January, departs daily, except on December 24, 25, and 31, between 4:30 pm and 9:30 pm from Coventry Street. Each journey lasts approximately one hour, giving riders panoramic views of London’s festive landmarks, including the glittering Christmas lights of Oxford Street, the angelic decorations adorning Regent Street, and the towering Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square.
Passengers can choose to sit in the open-top deck, soaking in the crisp winter air, or stay in the covered deck, which offers protection from the elements while still providing excellent views. The bus also offers live commentary in English and several other languages, guiding riders through the history and stories behind London’s iconic streets and landmarks.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, passengers are served a variety of seasonal food and drinks, including warming mulled wine and rich hot chocolate. Christmas music plays throughout the journey, creating a joyful soundtrack to the sparkling sights outside. Each rider is also provided with a festive Christmas hat, contributing to the cheerful, communal spirit that has become synonymous with the tour.
Organisers say the experience is designed for families, tourists, and Londoners who want to enjoy the city’s holiday lights in a relaxed, comfortable setting while avoiding crowded streets and busy shopping areas.
“We want to offer a unique, immersive way to experience London at Christmas,” a spokesperson for TOOTBus said. “From the festive hats and music to the mulled wine and open-top views, it’s about creating memories and bringing people together to celebrate the season.”
The TOOTBus Christmas Lights Tour also highlights the capital’s broader holiday offerings, from the decorated storefronts of the West End to the glittering lights over Covent Garden, Piccadilly Circus, and beyond. The bus routes are carefully planned to ensure passengers experience the most spectacular displays while enjoying a smooth, comfortable ride through the heart of London.
Tickets are available online via TOOTBus and local tour providers and prices start from £29.40 per adult for the festive bus ride and two drinks. Bookings are recommended in advance due to high demand during the festive season. Departures are scheduled every Friday and Saturday in December at 18:30 and 20:30, and the buses run throughout the holiday period, allowing passengers flexibility in choosing a preferred evening for their tour.
Bar Bus at Christmas Tour breakdown:
• Fridays and Saturdays until January.
• Departing from Charles II Street, London SW1Y 4QN.
• Departures at 6:30pm and 8:30pm.
• Kids under 4 go free, (ages 5-15 £30pp, 16+ £49pp adults). *Currently an offer on so adults from £29.40!
• Visit Tootbus.com for more info or book here.
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