London's newest bus journey has cocktails, movie soundtracks and quizzes

Scottish Sun

17-05-2025

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LOOKING for the evening event of the summer – where you can enjoy views of London and learn behind-the-scenes cinema secrets with a cocktail in hand?
You'll want to board Tootbus's Bar Bus.
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Tootbus's Bar Bus Tour ticks off filming locations from much-loved blockbusters
Credit: Kat Forsyth (Photographer)
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The highlight of the tour was when the bus arrived on Tower Bridge
Credit: Kat Forsyth (Photographer)
Lights, Camera, London! The Ultimate Movie & TV Tour ticks off filming locations from much-loved blockbusters, all while riders are quizzed on their film knowledge to be crowned the trivia champion.
Climbing on board, I quickly learned that the Bar Bus is no ordinary London ride.
Decorated with flower arches stretching over its roof, it also features plush leather-style benches facing a small table that make it more reminiscent of a fancy train carriage than a bus.
Ice buckets are placed on each table, loaded with tins of cinema-inspired cocktails such as Espresso Royale, as well as bottles of Prosecco or rosé wine and soft drinks.
Departing from Charles II Street, just off Pall Mall, I spent the next 90 minutes venturing down London's busy streets – and it's certainly a great way to tick off the landmarks.
I saw the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, the London Eye, St Paul's Cathedral, the Tower of London and so much more during my trip.
Guests are encouraged to sit back and relax while a guide points out locations.
I forgot just how many major movies were filmed and set around London, from Harry Potter and James Bond to Mission Impossible, Bridget Jones and Sherlock Holmes.
We all remember that famous Love Actually scene set in the Houses of Parliament where the fictional Prime Minister, played by Hugh Grant, swings his hips to Girls Aloud song Jump.
But did you know that some scenes from 2005 film V For Vendetta were also filmed here?
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It turns out the production team were allowed to create real, controlled explosions outside the building for one of the most dramatic scenes – something that movie makers are not usually permitted to do, our guide told us.
My highlight of the tour was when the bus arrived on Tower Bridge – which most Marvel fans will recognise from Spider-Man: Far From Home starring Tom Holland and Zendaya.
It was the golden hour as the sun was setting across the city and glittering on the Thames – and luckily for me, the traffic slowed so I was able to take in some of the most impressive views of the sunset, with the city skyline as backdrop.
Around halfway through the tour is when the competitive part begins, so I'd suggest bringing your film-loving pals with you if you want to win the quiz.
If you fancy a trip on the open-top bus, but movies aren't your thing, Tootbus offers Discovery tours, kids' tours, London by Night tours and more.
I can't think of a better way to tick off the capital's sights for any London newbies. Let's face it, it's a lot more fun that the tube.
GO: Tickets for the Bar Bus cost from £49 per adult aged 16+ and £30 per child aged five to 15.
Those booking online in advance can bag up to 30 per cent off bookings.
The Bar Bus leaves every Friday & Saturday at 6.30pm (including school holidays).
See tootbus.com.