There’s nothing quite like seeing London from the top of an open-top bus – the wind in your hair, the city buzzing below, and a front-row seat to some of the world’s most iconic sights. Whether you’re here for a flying visit or want to get your bearings before diving deeper, a sightseeing bus tour is a classic for a reason. And with The Cumberland Hotel just moments from Marble Arch, you’re perfectly placed to hop aboard!
Here’s our round-up of the best sightseeing bus tours in London, where each route offers a fresh perspective on the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Big Bus Tours – Classic London
If you’re after the big-hitters (think Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Tower of London), Big Bus Tours is your go-to. With multiple routes and over 40 stops, it’s the ultimate hop-on, hop-off experience. You’ll find live commentary on select buses, or you can tune in via their app for a more flexible ride.
And if you fancy swapping the bus for a boat, most Big Bus tickets also include a Thames River cruise – a brilliant way to see the skyline from a different angle.
Buses run every 10–45 minutes (depending on the route)
Closest stop to The Cumberland: Marble Arch Eastbound (Stop 41)
Golden Tours – For the Full London Experience
Golden Tours turns the standard city tour into more of an experience. Their hop-on, hop-off routes are brought to life with live guides, and their optional night tours add a bit of sparkle once the sun goes down. You’ll also find themed options, from Taylor Swift singalongs to seeing all the landmarks from a 1960s Routemaster bus, perfect for those looking for something a little different.
With over 60 stops and longer service hours, it’s a great choice if you’re in a group and want a tour that feels tailored.
Buses run every 20–60 minutes (depending on the route)
Closest stop to The Cumberland: Park Lane, N/B, Tourist Stop Z at Marble Arch
Tootbus – Eco-Friendly and Family-Focused
Looking for something greener? Tootbus operate a 100% low-emission fleet, offer relaxed vibe, and an excellent audio guide – including a storybook-style version just for kids. Their routes cover the major sights and throw in a few unexpected gems too.
Ideal if you’re travelling with little ones or want a quieter ride that still ticks all the boxes. You can even pair your ticket with a guided walking tour to mix things up.
Buses every 10–30 minutes (depending on the route)
Closest stop to The Cumberland: Marble Arch (Stop 15)
Route 11 – The Local’s Choice
Not all sightseeing has to come with a tour guide. For a more low-key, budget-friendly ride through central London, jump on the Number 11 bus. It runs from Fulham to Liverpool Street and guides you past some of the city’s most iconic landmarks (Westminster Cathedral, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament), all for the price of a standard bus fare.
There’s no commentary or fancy extras, but it’s a brilliant choice for regular visitors or anyone after a more local view of the city.
Standard TfL bus timings
Closest connection from The Cumberland: Walk to Victoria or Green Park to hop on.
Bonus: The London Night Tour
There’s something magical about London after dark. The bridges are lit, the skyline sparkles, and the city takes on a new kind of energy. Big Bus, Golden Tours and Tootbus all offer night tours that show off London’s best evening views – and with fewer crowds and cooler air, it’s a great way to end the day.
Top tip: wrap up warm, charge your camera, and get ready for some postcard-worthy shots.
Need a Sound Base? Start at The Cumberland Hotel
The Cumberland Hotel is right where you want to be – next to Marble Arch, a few steps from Hyde Park, and on the doorstep of Oxford Street. Whether you’re planning a day of sightseeing or a night out in the city, we’re the perfect starting point.
Stay the night, grab breakfast at SOUND café, and walk straight into the heart of London.
Don’t wait to start your next adventure, book your room in our unique London hotel today.
