While it does not have any types of clubs or itineraries specifically for children, there is much to appeal to kids of all ages on a Big Bus Tour. Participants can hop on and off of tours led by witty and informative guides, and they can take in such attractions as the London Dungeon, the London Zoo and Madame Tussaud's. Children under 4 ride free on these routes.
These amphibious tours of London are sure to provide an unforgettable experience for your children. This company uses restored WW2 vehicles known as "DUKWS" to provide a unique view of London attractions. This tour drives past many of the London hot spots in the city of Westminster such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament before entering the water to conclude the tour with a trip down the Thames.
The red route of this open-top bus tour offers a special kids club where children can enjoy their own commentator in a special program created specifically for kids. History will come alive for your kids as they see famous London landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben. Highlights include the voice of the ghost of London as well as receiving their own passports and a special activity pack full of puzzles and activities.
Older children might enjoy the change of pace provided by these unique tours. A restored black 19th-century double-decker leads curious tourists on an hourlong excursion to haunted houses and murder scenes throughout London. The tour bills itself as "frights for the family" and has special family fare packages, but its website makes it clear that it is not suitable for young children.
While many tours offer free fares for children under the ages of 4 to 5, children older than that are required to buy their own tickets. Special family fares or child rates are generally available, so check with the tour operators for details. Adults must accompany children under the age of 16 on all London bus tours.
These tours can be a great way to catch a quick glimpse of London attractions so that your family can decide which landmarks look intriguing enough to return for a more detailed look. If your family decides to forgo a tour, you can catch a one-hour ride on a regular city double-decker bus for about half the price of a guided tour.
Rick Steves, the world renowned travel writer, had this to say in "Kidding About Europe": "For an overview of London, consider the two-hour, double-decker bus tours. These drive by all the major sights, are fun for kids, and stress-free for parents. You can stay on the bus the entire time, or 'hop-on and hop-off' at any of the 20-plus stops and catch a later bus."
