Christmas Lights Tour by Vintage Bus in London

In the run-up to Christmas, London's streets are hung with lights, and one of the best ways to enjoy them is from the top deck of a bus. This Christmas lights tour by vintage bus takes you through the decorated streets of the West End on a classic open-top London bus. A professional guide tells you about the city along the way while festive music plays on board, so all you have to do is sit back, look up and take your photos.

What you will see on the route

The tour starts at a bus stop near Embankment station. From there the bus heads into the West End, glowing with seasonal sparkle, drives along the Strand and passes the Christmas market at Trafalgar Square. With an open top deck there is nothing between you and the shop windows, street decorations and illuminated façades, and the guide's commentary fills in the stories behind the places you pass. It is a relaxed way to see the festive city without walking from one street to the next in the cold, and a good first evening for anyone visiting London in December.

Where to meet

You board the bus at stop 40B on Embankment. The area is easy to reach by Underground, rail and bus, so it suits wherever you are staying. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so please make your own way to the stop. Your departure time is shown in your booking confirmation.

Before you go

The tour suits all fitness levels, pushchairs and prams are fine and service animals are welcome. The vintage bus is not wheelchair accessible, however, and the tour is not recommended for travellers with poor cardiovascular health. Because the top deck is open, December evenings can feel very cold up there: bring a warm coat, a hat, a scarf and gloves. Food and drinks are not included.

How booking works

Choose your date and number of guests and send your request; at this stage we only place a hold on your card. We check availability with the operator, email you once your place is confirmed and take the payment at that point. If the request cannot be met, we let you know by email and your card is not charged.

For more evening activities and sightseeing, browse all our London tours, and for a stay within walking distance of the West End, see our hotels in London.