London: Night Open Top Bus Tour & Live Guide Views

Summary

London’s famous sights glow after dark on a breezy city ride

You’ll ride an open-top bus through London as dusk falls, catching iconic sights like Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge lit up against the night sky. A live guide shares stories that make each landmark feel personal, while quieter streets let you soak in city life at its own pace. It’s a different side of London—one you’ll remember long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the lights bounced off the Thames — kind of gold and shimmery, like someone had spilled a handful of coins across the water. We’d just climbed up to the top deck by the London Eye, and already I could feel that little chill you get in the air after sunset. Our guide, Marcus (I think that was his name — he joked about Big Ben being “just a bell”), waved us over to the best seats for photos. The bus engine rumbled underneath us as we pulled away, and suddenly there was that feeling you get when you’re not quite sure if you’re a tourist or just part of the city for a night.

I didn’t expect Buckingham Palace to look so... quiet? There were only a few people at the gates, mostly locals walking their dogs or chatting quietly. The city felt softer at night — even Piccadilly Circus wasn’t as loud as I remembered from earlier. Marcus pointed out details I’d missed before, like how St Paul’s dome catches the last bit of daylight before it disappears behind glass towers in the City. He told us stories about Tower Bridge and some old rivalry with London Bridge — honestly, I’m still not sure who won that one.

When we passed Westminster Abbey, I caught this faint whiff of rain on stone (it hadn’t rained yet but everything felt damp), and it made me think about how many footsteps have echoed there over centuries. Someone behind me tried to pronounce “Westminster” properly and got it wrong; we all laughed, even Marcus. The tour lasted just under two hours but it didn’t feel rushed — more like drifting through someone else’s memories of London at night. If you ever want to see Big Ben without elbowing through crowds, this is probably your chance.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Evening open top bus tour of London

• Board open top bus at London Eye
• See Buckingham Palace from bus
• Pass Tower of London
• Pass Westminster Abbey
• View London Eye from bus
• See Big Ben and Houses of Parliament

Top questions

Where does the London by night open top bus tour start?

The tour starts at London Eye, Belvedere Road, Tourist bus stop (near Waterloo station).

How long does the night sightseeing bus tour in London last?

The panoramic tour lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.

Is there a live guide on board during the tour?

A live English-speaking guide is usually on board but not always guaranteed.

Can I hop on and off during this London night bus tour?

No, this is not a hop-on hop-off tour; it's continuous from start to finish.

Are audio guides available in other languages?

Yes, audio guides are available in 11 languages.

What landmarks will I see on this London by night tour?

You’ll pass Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and more.

Is public transportation nearby for getting to the meeting point?

Yes, Waterloo station is just a 2-minute walk from the starting point.

Does this tour include entry into any attractions?

No entry tickets are included; you'll view landmarks from the bus.

What’s included

Your evening includes a panoramic 1 hour 45 minute open-top bus ride through central London with views of icons like Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge. You’ll have access to audio guides in 11 languages and—when available—a live English-speaking guide sharing local stories along the way. Just head to the easy-to-find pickup spot near Waterloo station to begin your nighttime adventure.