Get ready to embark on a thrilling adventure through the captivating world of Sherlock Holmes, right in the heart of London! From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this city is teeming with secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Step into the World of 221b Baker Street
221b Baker Street, often dubbed “the world’s most famous address,” served as the fictional residence of the enigmatic Sherlock Holmes between 1881 and 1904, as depicted in the masterful tales penned by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. While the original Baker Street didn’t extend to number 221, the street was eventually expanded, and today, this legendary address is home to the Sherlock Holmes Museum, a captivating testament to the detective’s enduring legacy.
This museum is a haven for Holmes enthusiasts, showcasing a treasure trove of artifacts from various film and television adaptations. Step into the meticulously recreated study, a space that perfectly embodies the brilliance and eccentricity of the famed detective. A visit to the Sherlock Holmes Museum is an absolute must for any fan of the iconic sleuth.
It’s worth noting that the museum’s building is actually located between 237 and 241 Baker Street. However, it was granted special permission by the City of Westminster to proudly bear the address of 221b Baker Street, further solidifying its place as a symbol of Sherlock Holmes’s enduring presence in London.
Delve into the Mysteries of Sherlock Holmes Tours
If you’re eager to delve deeper into the mysteries of Sherlock Holmes, London offers an array of captivating tours designed to guide you through the detective’s world. These tours are expertly curated to reveal hidden secrets, uncover fascinating facts, and bring the stories to life.
Indulge in a Sherlockian Sojourn at the Sherlock Holmes Pub
Step into the Sherlock Holmes Pub, a traditional Victorian pub nestled in Westminster, and immerse yourself in the world of the great detective. Enjoy a pint of Sherlock House Ale or Watson’s Golden Ale, and then ascend to the upper level, where a meticulously recreated version of Holmes and Watson’s study and sitting room awaits.
This remarkable space is filled with an extensive collection of memorabilia, artwork, and photographs, all meticulously curated to capture the essence of the stories and their various film and television adaptations. The pub’s owners acquired these treasures from an exhibit created for the 1951 Festival of Britain, ensuring an authentic and immersive experience.
Solve the Case in the Official Sherlock Live Game
Prepare to put your detective skills to the test in the Official Sherlock Live Game, an exhilarating escape room experience crafted by the masterminds behind the Sherlock Holmes series, Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss.
This unique escape room immerses you in the show’s captivating world, with its entrance cleverly concealed within a fake opticians shop located in a shopping mall in Shepherd’s Bush. To gain access, you’ll need to decipher the secret code.
Once inside, prepare to be transported into the show’s enthralling sets and scenes, where you’ll unravel clues, solve riddles, and overcome challenges. The clock is ticking, and you’ll need to work as a team to crack the case before time runs out.
Adding to the excitement, the game features special virtual appearances from the series’ stars, including Benedict Cumberbatch, Andrew Scott, and Martin Freeman, who will guide you through the mysteries. After successfully completing the game, you can head to Shelock’s Mind Palace, a hidden speakeasy conveniently located next door.
Unwind in the Speakeasy of Shelock’s Mind Palace
Shelock’s Mind Palace is more than just a bar; it’s a secret haven for agents and spies, offering a unique and immersive experience. Indulge in a creative menu of themed cocktails, or participate in the captivating “Case of the Poisoned Chalice” cocktail-making experience.
This interactive adventure requires you to work together to solve mysteries and uncover the ingredients needed to create your perfect drink. Every weekend, the Mind Palace transforms into a charming venue for Mrs Hudson’s afternoon tea, a delightful affair featuring freshly made sandwiches, scones, sweet treats, and tea or coffee.
But there’s more to this afternoon tea than just delicious food; it includes a Sherlock-themed mini-mystery, adding a touch of intrigue to your afternoon.
Embrace the Elegance of the Holmes Hotel
For a truly immersive Sherlockian experience, consider a stay at the Holmes Hotel, a boutique-style hotel housed within an elegant 18th-century Georgian townhouse in Marylebone Village.
The hotel embraces a subtle yet distinct Sherlock Holmes theme, seamlessly blending elegance and modernity. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a touch of Sherlockian charm without sacrificing style or comfort.
Discover More Sherlock Holmes Sites in London
Beyond these notable locations, London boasts a wealth of additional Sherlock Holmes sites, each holding a unique place in the detective’s world.
St Bart’s Hospital, located in the City of London, holds a special significance in the Sherlock Holmes canon. It was here, in Arthur Conan Doyle’s 1887 novel A Study in Scarlet, that Sherlock Holmes uttered the iconic phrase “You have been in Afghanistan, I perceive” upon meeting Dr John Watson for the first time.
While the real hospital wasn’t used as a filming location for this scene, the exterior of St Bart’s Hospital served as a backdrop in the BBC Sherlock series, most notably during Sherlock’s (Benedict Cumberbatch) daring (and fake) suicide attempt.
In the BBC Sherlock series, exterior shots of Sherlock’s flat at 221b Baker Street were actually filmed on North Gower Street in Bloomsbury, a short distance from the actual Baker Street. This same location is home to the real-life Speedy’s Cafe, a small sandwich bar and cafe that frequently appears in the series.
Speedy’s Cafe remains a bustling establishment, and to cater to the influx of Sherlock fans, they now offer themed sandwiches and souvenir T-shirts.
For a taste of high-end dining that Sherlock and Watson would surely appreciate, head to Simpson’s, a historic restaurant on the Strand. Watson referred to it as “our Strand restaurant,” and in The Adventure of the Dying Detective, Holmes mentioned that “Something nutritious at Simpson’s would not be out of place” after a three-day fast.
This preference for Simpson’s is believed to have stemmed from author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s own fondness for this traditional English restaurant.
London is a treasure trove of Sherlock Holmes experiences, offering a captivating journey through the detective’s world. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the city is brimming with secrets waiting to be uncovered.
