This vintage 1960s double-decker bus has been converted into a mobile tea room that travels scenic routes around Bournemouth and the New Forest while serving traditional afternoon tea. The lower deck features comfortable seating and a kitchen, while the upper deck offers panoramic views through large windows. The 90-minute journey includes stops at viewpoints for photography while you enjoy finger sandwiches, scones, and cakes served on vintage china. It ranks among Bournemouth's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Tickets cost £29 adult, £24 child (5-15), £26 senior and 90 minutes is enough to see everything without rushing.
Priority: High - do not skip Time needed: 90 minutes Best for: combines traditional english afternoon tea with Skip if: You have mobility issues with stairs, are prone to motion sickness, or have dietary restrictions that can't be accommodated Cost: £29 adult, £24 child (5-15), £26 senior
You climb aboard a lovingly restored vintage double-decker where tables are set with proper china and fresh flowers while the bus gently tours through countryside and coastal roads. Staff serve a full afternoon tea service as you watch the scenery roll by through large windows, with scheduled stops where you can step off to take photos while enjoying your scones and jam.
Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible due to narrow stairs and vintage design, assistance available for those with mild mobility issues
Combines traditional English afternoon tea with sightseeing in a genuinely unique vintage bus setting. That puts it near the top of any Bournemouth visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Bournemouth Gardens and Bournemouth Beach - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Bournemouth. Afternoon tends to work best here.
Skip if: You have mobility issues with stairs, are prone to motion sickness, or have dietary restrictions that can't be accommodated
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Tours run Wed-Sun, departure times vary seasonally, typically 11:30, 14:00, 16:30 |
| Price | £29 adult, £24 child (5-15), £26 senior |
| Time Needed | 90 minutes |
| Best Time to Visit | Afternoon tours for best light and traditional tea time atmosphere |
| Address | Tours depart from Bournemouth Travel Interchange, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth BH7 7DX |
Insider tip: Request upper deck seating when booking for the best views, but lower deck offers a more stable experience for those sensitive to movement
Upper deck windows provide excellent views for landscape shots, the vintage interior makes great distinctive photos
What we'd tell a friend visiting
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Common questions about Frieda's Afternoon Tea Bus
Traditional three-tier service with finger sandwiches, fresh scones with jam and cream, selection of cakes, and unlimited tea or coffee
Tours run in most weather conditions as you're inside the bus, though some outdoor photo stops may be shortened
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