The Original Tour, London's original hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus, is currently offering 25 per cent off child tickets on its dedicated Kids Tour until the end of August, reducing the price to £18. The 45-minute open-top experience is designed specifically for children, combining storytelling with views of iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, St Paul's Cathedral and the London Eye.
A Family-Friendly Alternative to the Tube
Laura Nightingale, a What's On writer and content editor, took her two-and-a-half-year-old daughter on the Kids Tour after avoiding the Tube due to the hassle of navigating lifts with a pram. She caught the overground to London Waterloo, walked over Golden Jubilee Bridge, and picked up the red double-decker at Charles II Street (SW1Y 4QN), near Trafalgar Square. The pick-up point was easy to find, and the 25-minute stroll from the train station included a stop at Southbank Centre for a toilet break.
The bus had plenty of room for pushchairs on the ground floor, and families were welcome to bring food and drink on board. The tour departed promptly at 12.15pm, with passengers advised to arrive 15 minutes early to settle in. Along the route, children received an activity book filled with quizzes, games and trivia, though Nightingale noted it was never needed because the commentary was so engaging.
Entertainment and Landmarks for Little Ones
As the bus passed The Duke of York Column, the whole bus broke into a classic nursery rhyme, and Nightingale's daughter was captivated by the sights and sounds from the open top. The 45-minute duration proved ideal for keeping a toddler entertained, and Nightingale said she learned several facts along the way. All tickets include a Thames River Cruise, offering families another way to see the city during the holidays.
Children under two travel free on the Kids Tour, and standard tickets cost £24 each. To book, visit theoriginaltour.com/kids-tour. The 25 per cent discount on child tickets is available until the end of August, making them £18.
Practical Details and Booking Information
The tour operates with audio commentary available in 11 languages, and the open-top design provides unobstructed views of London's most famous sights. Nightingale highlighted that the Kids Tour is a brilliant way to explore the city without navigating the Underground, especially for families with young children.
With the summer holidays in full swing, the Kids Tour offers a structured yet flexible outing that combines education and entertainment. The inclusion of a Thames River Cruise adds further value, allowing families to extend their day of sightseeing. For those interested in staying updated on London events and deals, the Going Out Out newsletter provides regular updates on hottest events, latest restaurant openings, and best deals.
