Angels TV & Film Costume Tour

A Close-Up Look at the Angels TV & Film Costume Tour

If you’re a fan of film and television costumes or simply curious about the craftsmanship behind your favorite characters, the Angels TV & Film Costume Tour offers a fascinating peek into London’s storied costume industry. This 1.5-hour guided experience takes you inside the warehouse where Angels Costumes safely stores and manages an extensive collection of outfits that have graced everything from West End shows to blockbuster TV series like Game of Thrones.

What we love about this tour is the behind-the-scenes access to the warehouse process—seeing how costumes are designed, fitted, altered, and stored. The small-group format keeps the experience intimate and allows for plenty of interaction with knowledgeable guides. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite niche, so if you’re after a broad London sightseeing experience, this might not be your best fit. Still, for anyone interested in costume design, theatrical history, or TV production, this tour offers a rare glimpse into a world many don’t get to see up close.

One potential drawback is the price point—at around $64 per person, it’s a specialized experience that’s best for those genuinely passionate about costumes or film history. Also, the tour involves a fair amount of walking around the warehouse and nearby streets, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. This is a fantastic pick for film lovers, costume enthusiasts, or industry professionals wanting an authentic, insider perspective on London’s costume scene.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy enhances the experience, with a maximum of 15 people.
• Expert guides like Jeremy Angel bring enthusiasm and insider knowledge.
• The tour covers the history of Angels, established in 1840, and its role in pop culture.
• It provides a behind-the-scenes look at costume design, fitting, alterations, and storage.
• Location and accessibility are convenient, with a central meeting point and near public transport.
• The tour is priced at a reasonable rate considering the exclusive access and expert commentary.

Exploring the Angels TV & Film Costume Tour in Detail

Getting to the Heart of the Experience

The tour kicks off at a meeting point in North London, at Edgware, NW9—an area easily reachable via public transportation. The guide, notably the passionate Jeremy Angel, begins with a brief overview of the company’s history—founded in 1840, it’s a family-run business that has grown into a cornerstone of London’s costume industry. Jeremy’s enthusiasm for the family legacy and the craft shines through, making the historical background engaging and accessible.

The main event is a two-hour walk around the warehouse, where you’ll see a vast array of costumes stored, designed, and fitted. The process begins with an overview of how the costumes are made, tailored, and altered in different departments, including uniforms, armor, and more. The behind-the-scenes look at the design and fitting process offers insight into just how much work goes into creating costumes for stage and screen.

The Warehouse Tour: A Costume Wonderland

Once inside the warehouse, the sheer volume of costumes is impressive. From medieval armor to intricate period dresses, the collection spans over a century of design. The guide points out costumes worn in notable productions, which may include items from popular TV series and West End shows. You can expect to see costumes that are instantly recognizable, adding an element of fun for fans.

Reviewers mention the “fantastic knowledge” of guides like Mark, who displayed not only expertise but also a humorous sense of storytelling, making the experience lively and memorable. The detailed explanation of the entire process—how costumes are created from scratch, fitted to actors, and then stored—gives you a real appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.

Authentic Behind-the-Scenes Stories

One of the most valued aspects of the tour is hearing behind-the-scenes anecdotes about the entertainment industry. The guide shares stories about costume challenges, surprises on set, and how some outfits have become iconic. These stories, combined with the visual feast of the collection, make the experience engaging for all ages.

The Value of the Experience

Considering the price, the tour offers good value for those genuinely interested in costumes, film, or theater. The expert guides, particularly Jeremy, are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making the visit both educational and fun. Reviewers also appreciated the convenient location and the fact that the tour is free to join with a mobile ticket—a hassle-free way to plan your afternoon in London.

Limitations and Considerations

While the experience is rich in detail and authenticity, it may not suit everyone. The tour involves a fair bit of walking and standing, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. Also, the small group size means a more personalized experience, but it can fill up quickly—booking 87 days in advance is common, so plan ahead.

Some reviews contain a stark warning about the company’s refusal to issue refunds if you cancel less than 24 hours prior—a crucial point to keep in mind when booking. It’s advisable to double-check your schedule before committing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience shines brightest for film and TV fans, costume designers, theater enthusiasts, or industry professionals. It’s ideal for those who crave an authentic behind-the-scenes look rather than a generic sightseeing tour. If you enjoy stories about show business or have an interest in how costumes contribute to storytelling, you’ll find this tour both fun and insightful.

The Sum Up

The Angels TV & Film Costume Tour offers a distinctive, authentic glimpse into London’s costume-making world. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to see the craftsmanship behind some of their favorite characters and productions. The small-group setting, expert guides, and behind-the-scenes access make it a memorable experience packed with details and stories that bring costumes to life.

While it’s not a broad sightseeing adventure, it’s an enriching journey into the heart of costume design that offers good value for passionate fans or industry insiders. The tour is best suited for visitors with a specific interest in film, TV, or theatrical costumes who appreciate a more intimate, personal experience.

If you’re after a unique, insider look into London’s entertainment industry and don’t mind the price, this tour will not disappoint. Just remember to book well in advance and consider your physical comfort—this is a walk-through of a working warehouse after all!

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for family groups, especially those interested in costumes or the entertainment industry.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, giving you ample time to see the collection and hear stories without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at a centrally located meeting point in Edgware, North London, which is accessible by public transportation.

What is included in the tour?
An expert guide leads the tour, sharing insights and behind-the-scenes stories. The experience is free with a mobile ticket.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before are not refunded.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves moving through the warehouse and nearby streets.

Are the costumes on display available for purchase or hire?
The tour focuses on viewing and learning about the costumes; it does not specify if items can be bought or hired.

How does this experience compare value-wise?
Given the exclusive behind-the-scenes access and guided storytelling, many find the price reasonable, especially for enthusiasts eager to see real costumes from famous productions.