The Best London Bus Tour for Kids (2026 Guide)
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
What’s the Best London Bus Tour for Kids?
If you just want a quick answer:
If your kids are under 10 → go for the Tootbus Kids Tour
If they’re older (10+) → choose Big Bus London or TootBus
If you want something different → Brigit’s Bakery bus (Peppa Pig or Paddington)
That’s the simple version.
Now here’s what actually matters.
Are London Bus Tours Actually Good for Kids?
Short answer: they can be — but most aren’t.
The problem is that most London bus tours are built for adults:
They’re long (often 2+ hours)
They rely on audio guides
They’re packed with information
For a 6-year-old, that usually means they lose interest pretty quickly.
That’s why choosing the right type of tour makes a bigger difference than the company itself.
Tootbus Kids Tour (The One That Actually Works)
Is the Tootbus Kids Tour Worth It?
Yes, especially if your kids are under 10.
This is the only bus tour in London that feels like it was built with children in mind.
Instead of headphones and long explanations, you get:
A live guide telling stories (I was lucky enough to meet some of the guides and I have to admit, some of them are brilliant)
A shorter route (around 45–60 minutes)
A kids activity pack when you get on (Kids tend to love this activity pack. If there is a special event going on in London they could even get a nicely designed paper crown or even a hat)
That combination makes a big difference. Kids stay engaged instead of switching off halfway through.
Why It Works So Well
It’s simple, it respects a child’s attention span.
You’re not trying to “see everything in London.” You’re giving them a fun introduction that keeps them interested.
Let's not forget that it's decently priced, pretty much the cheapest way in London to experience an open top bus.
Things to Know Before Booking
It leaves from Charles II near Trafalgar Square (very central)
There are several departures per day
It does sell out, especially in peak season
How Long Is the Tootbus Kids Tour?
It usually lasts around 45 to 60 minutes, which is exactly why it works so well.
Any longer, and most younger kids would start getting restless.
Brigit’s Bakery Bus (Fun, But a Different Type of Experience)
Is Brigit’s Bakery Bus Tour Good for Kids?
It can be — but it depends what you’re looking for.
This isn’t really a sightseeing tour. It’s more of a moving afternoon tea experience.
You’re inside the bus (no open top), eating and enjoying the atmosphere rather than focusing on landmarks.
When It Makes Sense
Rainy day
Special occasion
Kids who enjoy themed experiences and food
When It Doesn’t
If your goal is to actually see London, this isn’t the best choice.
It’s also quite a bit more expensive than standard bus tours.
Hop-On Hop-Off Buses (Better for Older Kids)
Are Hop-On Hop-Off Buses Good for Kids?
For younger kids, it depends!
For older kids (around 10+), they can be a great option.
The big advantage is that you:
See more of London
Can get on and off wherever you want
Have more flexibility throughout the day
Which London Bus Tour is the best for kids?
Tootbus is the only hop-on hop-off bus in London that offers commentary specifically designed for children, which is exactly why it tops our list. If you think your child will enjoy the commentary, has the patience to listen, and a curious mind, then Tootbus is the perfect choice.
If frequency is your top priority, Big Bus London is usually the best choice.
They run more frequently and cover all the major landmarks, which makes the whole experience smoother. The downside is that there’s no proper kids-focused commentary.
Where Should You Sit on a London Bus Tour?
If it’s sunny and you’re on an open-top bus, make sure you sit on the open side to soak up the sun and enjoy the best views. Skip the front row unless it’s raining - the experience is actually much better from the back, where you can see more of the city without leaning forward.
If you’re travelling on Brigit’s buses, the closer you are to the front, the better the experience - but keep in mind those seats are hard to get, so arriving early is key!
What I Would Choose (Based on Experience)
With a 3 -10 year-old → Tootbus Kids Tour
With a 12-year-old → Big Bus
On a rainy day → Brigit’s Bakery
Final Answer: Which London Bus Tour Is Best for Kids?
If you’re travelling with younger children, the Tootbus Kids Tour is the best option because it’s short, interactive, and designed specifically for them.
For older kids, a hop-on hop-off bus like Big Bus or Tootbus gives you more flexibility and better overall coverage of London.
If you don’t mind paying a bit more and want to combine three experiences in one—sightseeing, food, and a themed adventure with Peppa Pig or Paddington—then Brigit’s Bus is the one for you.
Choosing the right format matters more than anything else.
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