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.
Lights, Camera, London! The Ultimate Movie & TV Tour ticks off filming locations from , 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 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.
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 , , the , St Paul’s Cathedral, the 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 and to , and .
We all remember that famous scene set in the Houses of Parliament where the fictional Prime Minister, played by , swings his hips to song Jump.
But did you know that some scenes from 2005 film V For Vendetta were also filmed here?
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 – which most Marvel fans will recognise from starring and .
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.
