London Hop on Hop Off Tours tickets 2026: official vs resellers, combo deals & insider tips

Most London operators (Big Bus, Tootbus, Golden Tours) use a 24, 48, or 72-hour clock. If you first scan your ticket at 2:00 PM, it remains valid until 2:00 PM the following day, rather than expiring at midnight.

Digital QR codes on your smartphone are standard for 2026 and are accepted directly by bus drivers. However, if your booking includes a combo like the London Eye, you may need to present your digital voucher at the attraction's ticket office to receive a timed entry slot.

Children under 5 typically travel free of charge if they do not occupy a seat. Children aged 5–15 require a reduced-price child ticket; always check if a 'Family' bundle is available on the checkout page, as it often provides a better rate than individual tickets.

Standard tickets usually include a river cruise voucher which you activate at the pier. For combo tickets involving the London Eye, you must typically book a specific time slot in advance or visit the Eye's ticket desk first, as the bus ticket alone does not grant immediate entry to the wheel.

London traffic is a major bottleneck, especially on weekends. It is highly recommended to download the operator's live-tracking app to see real-time bus locations, as printed timetables are frequently disrupted by central London congestion or events.

Official operator tickets are often non-refundable once purchased. Booking through partners like GetYourGuide typically offers a 24-hour cancellation window, which is safer given London's unpredictable rain.

All major London HOHO buses are equipped with low-floor access and a designated wheelchair space. Strollers must usually be folded if the bus is crowded to ensure the aisles and wheelchair bays remain clear.