Dive into the world of the legendary detective, Sherlock Holmes, at a pub that transports you to Victorian London! The Sherlock Holmes, a charming Victorian-themed pub, is nestled in Northumberland Street, just a stone’s throw from the bustling Charing Cross railway station and the iconic Trafalgar Square.
A Journey Through Time
This pub boasts a remarkable collection of memorabilia dedicated to the fictional detective, offering a glimpse into the world of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s brilliant creation. The collection’s origins trace back to the Festival of Britain in 1951, where it was initially displayed on Baker Street, the very address of Holmes’ famous residence, 221B Baker Street.
The building itself has a fascinating history. Originally a small hotel known as the Northumberland Arms, it was featured in Conan Doyle’s 1892 Sherlock Holmes story, “The Adventure of the Noble Bachelor.” Interestingly, the Victorian Turkish baths frequented by Holmes and his trusty companion, Dr. Watson, were located right next door! The entrance to the women’s Turkish baths can still be seen in Craven Passage, a hidden alley behind the men’s baths. Some Holmes aficionados even speculate that the current building might be the Northumberland Hotel mentioned in the 1901 novel, “The Hound of the Baskervilles.”
A Legacy of Enthusiasm
The impressive Sherlock Holmes collection, a testament to the enduring popularity of the detective, was carefully curated by a group of passionate enthusiasts. With the support of Conan Doyle’s family, they meticulously gathered a range of artifacts, including a Persian slipper for Holmes’ tobacco, a gasogene for Watson’s soda, and even a jack-knife for Holmes to pin his unanswered correspondence to the mantelpiece.
The collection’s journey continued after the Festival of Britain. It embarked on a global tour, captivating audiences in places like New York, before finding its permanent home in the Sherlock Holmes pub.
A World of Detail
The pub’s transformation into a Victorian haven was a labor of love. The interior was meticulously restored, and the centerpiece of the collection, a detailed replica of a corner of Holmes’ fictional apartment, is prominently displayed on the upper floor. You can admire this incredible exhibit from the roof garden, the Sherlock Holmes restaurant, or through small windows in the hallway.
The pub’s bars are adorned with an eclectic mix of Holmesian treasures: theatre posters, Watson’s old service revolver, political cartoons, and even the stuffed and mounted head of the infamous Hound of the Baskervilles!
A Living Legacy
Over the years, the collection has continued to grow, featuring photographs of actors who have brought Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson to life on stage and screen. The collection is lovingly maintained by the Sherlock Holmes Society of London, ensuring that the legacy of the great detective lives on.
The Sherlock Holmes pub is a unique and captivating destination for fans of the detective, offering a glimpse into the world of one of literature’s most beloved characters. From the detailed replica of Holmes’ apartment to the collection of fascinating artifacts, this pub is a must-visit for anyone seeking a dose of Victorian charm and a celebration of the enduring legacy of Sherlock Holmes.
