Knowing where to catch the sightseeing buses is the first step towards an unforgettable journey. In this guide, I'll pinpoint the key boarding points and show you detailed london bus tour maps, ensuring you make the most of your sightseeing adventure.
Please note that these are the major stops, you can board the buses at any of the stops on the map. The best way to locate the nearest stop to your location is to download the app of your chosen tour provider.
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Contents:
Green Park
The optimal starting point for the Big Bus is undoubtedly Green Park(1), their primary departure location. Here, you stand a better chance of securing upper deck seats during peak hours compared to other stops. Additionally, you'll find numerous uniformed staff members with ample time to provide insights into the tour and suggest the best routes.
Location: The bus stop is located right in front of Green Park Station, next to The Ritz Hotel.
The London Eye
This stop(19) serves as a convenient starting point for hopping on the bus, despite the fact that there's quite a crowd of people most times. Arriving early can help overcome this challenge. The buses from this location offer the flexibility of traveling in both directions, a feature not available with most of the other tours. This means you can easily reach Buckingham Palace without having to cross the bridge or take a longer route.
Location: The bus stop is located next to the big lion statue at the beginning of Westminster Bridge
Marble Arch
This stop(4) is another popular choice. With frequent service, it serves as a convenient spot to switch between the red and blue lines.
Location: This bus stop can be a bit trickier to spot. If you are visiting during busy times it won't be hard to spot the buses, otherwise, just head toward the main corner entry of Hyde Park and you will notice it as soon as you cross the street.
Coventry Street
This is Stop 1 and serves as the main departure point for Toot Bus, offering easy access to seats upstairs if you start early. Situated centrally, it provides proximity to numerous stores, theaters, and dining options.
Location: The bus stop is fairly easy to locate, it sits across the road from M&M world, and just in front of Shake Shack on Coventry Street.
Hyde Park Corner
It's an excellent starting point for both the blue and red routes. Note that the blue route has less frequency, so checking the app for departure times is advisable.
Location: The bus stop(14) is located opposite the Hilton Hotel.
The London Eye
A popular boarding location for most companies, featuring staff availability throughout the day for inquiries or clarifications. Crossing the street leads to another departure point for the blue route.
Location: The bus stop is located next to the big lion statue at the beginning of Westminster Bridge
The London Eye
Marked as stop number 1, it serves as their primary departure point. Although you can catch the bus at the main stop, shared with other tours, a short walk to the back of the London Eye brings you to stop number 1. This option is better because you avoid unnecessary bus changes after just one stop and you can also find better seats on the upper deck.
Hyde Park Corner
An excellent starting point(15) for both the blue and red routes. Note that the blue route has less frequency, so checking the app for departure times is advisable.
Location: The bus stop is located opposite the Hilton Hotel.
Tower of London
Serves as an excellent starting point(7) for the tour. Here you have the opportunity to explore the remarkable Tower of London, which is definitely worth a visit. Additionally, it's a convenient spot if your ticket includes a boat ride.
Belvedere Road
Golden Tours' main departure point is situated behind the London Eye, on Belvedere Road(1). It's recommended to start your journey there to avoid the possibility of changing buses when boarding at the previous stop. Additionally, this departure point tends to be less crowded compared to the main stop.
Location: It is fairly easy to locate the bus stop as it is situated right behind the London Eye, on Belvedere Road.
Hyde Park Corner
It's an excellent starting point(41) for both the yellow and red routes. Note that the yellow route has less frequency, so checking the app for departure times is advisable.
Location: The bus stop is located opposite the Hilton Hotel.
Buckingham Palace
It's an iconic must-visit in London. It's an excellent spot to catch the Golden Tour, as their buses head in different directions from there.
Location: The bus stop(21) is located on the side of Buckingham Palace, on the way to Victoria Station on Buckingham Gate Road.
Marble Arch
Marked as stop number 1, serves as the primary boarding point for TopView. Boarding here is recommended, especially if you prefer live guides throughout the entire loop for a comprehensive commentary experience.
Location: This bus stop can be a bit trickier to spot. If you are visiting during busy times it won't be hard to spot the buses, otherwise, just head toward the main corner entry of Hyde Park and you will notice it as soon as you cross the street.
The London Eye
This stop(6) is a bustling location where you'll encounter a significant number of their staff, making it a popular and convenient boarding point for the bus.
Location: The bus stop is located next to the big lion statue at the beginning of Westminster Bridge
Green Park
The departure point for the See London by Night tour is Green Park, where all buses both depart and return. The tour follows a single 1-hour and 30-minute loop without any stops along the way.
Location: The bus stop is located right in front of Green Park Station, next to The Ritz Hotel.
7. Understanding your London bus tour boarding points and maps
Before you embark on your London bus tour, it's important to do some research on boarding points and maps. However, keep in mind that the sales staff at the bus stops are usually very friendly and willing to assist you in understanding the routes.
Spending less time in front of the screen and more time interacting with the staff can be valuable, especially at less busy stops where they can provide detailed explanations.
Additionally, most tour operators offer user-friendly apps that enhance your tour experience. For further details on each bus, check our main page.
