Seeing London from the top deck of a classic red bus is an experience you won't forget. It’s an easy way to get around, and it’s a moving viewpoint that lets you see the city’s most famous landmarks unfold right before your eyes. From grand palaces to bustling squares, the journey is as exciting as the destination. You could see the iconic Big Ben, drive by Buckingham Palace and all its beautiful splendor, or pass the magnificent London Bridge. We’ve mapped out the best routes and stops to help you discover London’s treasures with ease. Get your camera ready and find a seat upstairs—your London adventure starts now!

Your Hop-On Guide to London's Best Bus Routes

Forget expensive tour buses. With a tap of your payment card, you can use London's public bus network for an incredible sightseeing journey. Here are the key routes that will take you past the city's most iconic spots.

Route 11: The Ultimate Sightseeing Journey

Many Londoners consider Route 11 the best unofficial tour bus in the city. It winds its way through the heart of London, connecting the chic streets of Chelsea with the historic City of London.

  • Key Sights: Start at Victoria Station and ride east. You’ll pass the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, and St. Paul's Cathedral.
  • Kid-Friendly Stop: Hop off at Trafalgar Square to see the giant lion statues and visit the National Gallery (entry is free!). It’s a great place for kids to stretch their legs.
  • Short Walk: From the St. Paul’s stop, it’s a quick walk over the Millennium Bridge to reach the Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe on the South Bank.

Route 9: Palaces and Posh Shops

Route 9 offers a journey through some of London’s most elegant and historic areas. It connects the museum district of Kensington with the very center of the city at Aldwych.

  • Key Sights: This route takes you past the Royal Albert Hall, through Knightsbridge (home to Harrods), under Wellington Arch at Hyde Park Corner, and along Pall Mall near St. James's Palace.
  • Rainy-Day Backup: If the weather turns, hop off at the High Street Kensington or Knightsbridge stops to explore world-class museums like the Science Museum, Natural History Museum, or the V&A Museum.
  • Best Seat: Grab a seat on the right side of the bus when traveling east for the best views of the Royal Albert Hall and Albert Memorial.

Route 24: Markets, Music, and More

Running 24 hours a day, this route is a fantastic artery that cuts north-south through the city, from Hampstead Heath down to Pimlico. It’s perfect for seeing both major landmarks and vibrant local neighborhoods.

  • Key Sights: You’ll pass Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square (the heart of Theatreland), and vibrant Camden Town, famous for its alternative culture and sprawling market.
  • Kid-Friendly Stop: A visit to Camden Market is a feast for the senses. Kids will love the unique shops, colorful street art, and delicious food stalls from around the world.
  • Short Walk: From the Tottenham Court Road stop, you're a few minutes away from the British Museum, home to the Rosetta Stone and other global treasures.

Route 15: A Ride Through History

This route is special because it sometimes features the iconic, old-school AEC Routemaster buses from the 1960s on a heritage portion of the route. It runs from Trafalgar Square to the Tower of London.

  • Key Sights: This route follows the river-hugging Fleet Street, passing the Royal Courts of Justice and St. Paul's Cathedral before ending at the mighty Tower of London.
  • Must-Do: Hopping aboard a vintage Routemaster is a treat. They typically run on weekends and public holidays. You get to see the city from a true piece of history.
  • Nearby Fun: After visiting the Tower of London, walk over the famous Tower Bridge for fantastic photos of the London skyline.

Getting to Notting Hill

While not on a single "tourist" route, getting to the famous pastel-colored houses of Notting Hill is easy. Take Route 23 or Route 7 from central London. Hop off and get ready to explore the location of the world-famous Portobello Road Market.

Your London Bus Toolkit: Practical Tips

Riding the bus like a local is easy with these simple tips. Get ready to explore the city with confidence!

Paying Your Fare

  • Oyster/Contactless: The easiest way to pay is with a contactless credit/debit card or a Visitor Oyster card. You tap your card on the yellow reader as you board. Buses do not accept cash!
  • Hopper Fare: You can make unlimited bus journeys for free within one hour of tapping in for your first trip. This is perfect for short hop-on, hop-off exploring.

Bus Etiquette and Tips

  • Best Seats: The front seats on the top deck offer a panoramic, cinematic view. They are the most popular, so grab one if you can!
  • Etiquette: Queue politely at the bus stop and let people off before you get on. Keep your bags off the seats to make room for others.
  • Accessibility: All of London's buses are wheelchair accessible and have space for strollers. The designated area is in the middle of the lower deck.

Sample 2-Day Double Decker Itinerary

This plan helps you see the best of London at a relaxed pace, using only the iconic red buses.

  • Day 1: Royal Sights & River Views
    • Morning (9:30 AM): Start at Victoria Station and take Route 11. Ride past Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. Hop off at Trafalgar Square.
    • Late Morning (11:00 AM): Explore the square, then hop back on Route 11 or Route 15 and head to St. Paul's Cathedral.
    • Afternoon (1:00 PM): After visiting St. Paul's, take Route 15 to its final stop: the Tower of London. Spend the afternoon exploring the Tower and Tower Bridge.
    • Evening: Enjoy dinner on the South Bank for great views of the illuminated city skyline.
  • Day 2: Palaces, Parks, and Markets
    • Morning (10:00 AM): Take Route 9 from Trafalgar Square westward. Hop off in Knightsbridge to see Harrods or continue to South Kensington for the museums.
    • Afternoon (1:00 PM): Switch to Route 24 at Trafalgar Square and ride it north to Camden Town. Have lunch at the market and explore the unique shops.
    • Late Afternoon (4:00 PM): For a different vibe, take the tube or another bus to Notting Hill to see the colorful houses as the afternoon light softens.

All Aboard for Your London Discovery!

Exploring London from a double-decker bus is a simple, affordable, and truly joyful experience. It’s a chance to see the city’s grand landmarks from a unique perspective and feel the rhythm of daily life. So tap your card, head upstairs, and watch the magnificent story of London unfold from the best seat in the house.