Sherlock Holmes BBC Series and Traditional Locations – A Very Small Group Tour

If you’re a fan of Sherlock Holmes, whether it’s the classic stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle or the modern BBC adaptation, this small-group tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Holmes’s world. Covering both traditional and film-inspired sites, it promises a fun, interactive experience that balances history, fiction, and film locations—all in just under three hours.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its intimate size—capped at just six travelers—which ensures a personal, engaging experience with your knowledgeable guide. The tour’s focus on both the literary roots and the BBC series makes it perfect for die-hard fans and casual viewers alike. That said, keep in mind that the walking can add up, so comfortable shoes are a must. This tour works best for travelers who enjoy storytelling, history, and iconic London scenery, and who are eager to see Sherlock’s London through a fan’s lens.

Key Points

• Small group size guarantees personalized attention and easier interaction.
• Diverse locations from classic stories and the BBC series offer a comprehensive view.
• Expert guides enrich the experience with detailed anecdotes and behind-the-scenes insights.
• Iconic photo opportunities include Sherlock’s statue, 221B Baker Street, and Speedy’s Cafe.
• Historical context is woven into the tour, adding depth beyond just sightseeing.
• Accessible for most travelers, but expect some walking and outdoor exposure.

This tour, offered by Richards Tours, is designed to hit the highlights of Sherlock’s London—both book and screen. Running for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, it strikes a good balance between sightseeing and storytelling, with a maximum of six travelers ensuring it remains intimate and interactive.

Starting Point: Embankment Station

The journey begins at Embankment station, where your guide will set the scene with an overview of Sherlock Holmes’ origins in literature. Expect to learn about Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s original stories and see how London itself played a role in shaping Holmes’s character and adventures. The guide, who is often praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, will give you a solid grounding in both the history of Holmes and the city’s landmarks, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, and The Strand.

Pro tip from a reviewer: “My guide was excellent and the chemistry between us was right from the first moment—it was like we’d known each other for ages.” This personal touch makes a big difference, especially in such a small group.

Soho: The Modern Sherlock Scene

Next, the tour moves into Soho, a lively hub where the BBC series made its mark. Here, you’ll see the restaurant where Holmes and Watson share their first meal in the series — a scene that many fans immediately recognize. This stop is particularly appealing for viewers who loved the BBC’s modern spin on Sherlock, highlighting the show’s influence and how it reimagines these familiar characters.

St Bartholomew’s Hospital: The Confluence of Fiction and Reality

A standout stop is St Bartholomew’s Hospital, home to Molly Hooper’s lab in the BBC series, and also the site of Holmes’s first meeting with Watson in the traditional stories. It’s also where Holmes famously jumps from the building in a confrontation with Moriarty. The guide will share stories about this historic site, which dates back centuries, and its connections to both the show and the books.

Travelers have commented: “We loved the way the guide wove together the real history with the fictional stories, making it all feel so authentic.”

Russell Square: Sherlock’s Earlier Homes and Filming Locations

Travel further into the Bloomsbury district where Conan Doyle once resided, and where Sherlock’s original home was thought to be before moving to Baker Street. The route also passes the spot where Mike Stamford meets Watson in the BBC series, tying together the historical and fictional narratives seamlessly.

Speedy’s Sandwich Bar & Cafe: The Heart of Sherlock’s London

Arguably the highlight for many is the visit to Speedy’s Cafe, which doubles as the exterior of Sherlock’s 221B Baker Street in the BBC series. Here, you’ll have time to take photos outside and maybe even enjoy a snack or drink inside. The walls are decorated with photos of the cast and crew, giving it a genuine TV-set feel.

A reviewer shared: “It was so fun to pose outside the famous door, and the atmosphere inside was just like being on set.” It’s a great spot for fans to connect with the series’ aesthetic and take home a piece of Holmes’s world.

The Sherlock Holmes Statue: Fan Photo Opportunity

The statue in Baker Street is a major draw, especially for fans wanting that classic Holmes shot. The guide often sports a deerstalker cap, encouraging everyone to snap a photo with their hero. It’s a fun, relaxed moment that caps off the walking tour perfectly.

The Sherlock Holmes Museum: The Final Destination

The tour concludes at the Sherlock Holmes Museum, a detailed recreation of Holmes and Watson’s fictional apartment at 221B Baker Street. Here, you’re free to explore the museum at your own pace, appreciating the period details and memorabilia faithful to Conan Doyle’s descriptions.

Practicalities & Value

The tour’s price of around $122 per person can seem steep at first glance, but considering the inclusion of a professional guide, exclusive access to iconic sites, and the small-group experience, it offers good value. You’ll also get plenty of photo opportunities and insider stories that bring London’s Sherlock universe to life.

Keep in mind, you’ll need a contactless payment method for travel on the London Underground between stops, which is a practical detail that ensures smooth transitions. The guided experience ends at the museum, so travelers should plan for additional time if they want to explore further or visit nearby attractions.

Many reviewers praise the guides’ expertise and engaging storytelling. “Richard, the guide, was super knowledgeable and made the tour fun and memorable,” one said. Others appreciated the mix of traditional stories and contemporary filming locations, noting that it broadened their understanding of Sherlock’s London.

The small group size also means plenty of personal interaction. One traveler commented, “It felt like exploring the city with a friend who just happened to know everything about Sherlock.” This intimacy allows for questions, photo requests, and a more relaxed pace.

The walking itself is described as well-managed, with enough time to rest at key points, but some minor fatigue from the amount of outdoor sightseeing is worth noting—so comfortable shoes are recommended.

This experience is ideal for Sherlock fans eager to see the city through their favorite detective’s eyes. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a mix of history, TV series, and iconic sights, combined with the chance to ask questions and take photos.

It’s also perfect for visitors who appreciate personalized experiences and want to avoid large, rushed tours. The detailed anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories make it engaging even for those who aren’t die-hard fans, providing context and history that enrich the sightseeing.

If you’re interested in London’s landmarks, enjoy storytelling, or just want to explore Sherlock’s London in a relaxed, friendly environment, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This Sherlock Holmes tour offers a well-balanced mix of traditional and modern London sights, infused with behind-the-scenes stories and fan-favorite locations. The small-group format ensures a personalized experience where your guide’s knowledge truly shines, making it feel like exploring with a Sherlock expert friend.

The stops—from the iconic Speedy’s Café to the historic St Bartholomew’s Hospital—are thoughtfully chosen, and the inclusion of the Sherlock Holmes Museum at the end allows ample time to soak in the details. While walking and outdoor exposure are involved, most travelers find the pace manageable, especially with an enthusiastic guide to keep the energy up.

This tour provides excellent value for Sherlock enthusiasts or anyone interested in London’s literary and TV history. It’s a fun, immersive way to see the city’s Sherlockian landscape, with plenty of memorable photo ops and stories to bring the myth to life.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves walking and outdoor stops, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the pace and questions.

Do I need a London Underground Oyster or travel card?
Yes, a contactless payment method is needed for travel between locations on the Underground.

What is included in the price?
You’ll have a professional guide providing in-depth commentary and storytelling throughout the tour.

Are the stops accessible?
Most travelers can participate, but some walking and outdoor exposure are involved. Those with mobility concerns should consider this.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Embankment station and ends at the Sherlock Holmes Museum on Baker Street.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely, there are photo opportunities at the Sherlock Holmes statue and outside 221B Baker Street.

Is the tour suitable for fans of both the original stories and the BBC series?
Yes, the tour covers locations from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s stories and the BBC series, making it ideal for fans of both.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, it’s booked about 46 days ahead, so planning early ensures availability.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to six travelers for an intimate experience.

This Sherlock Holmes tour combines history, TV magic, and London’s stunning scenery into a memorable, personalized adventure that fans and casual observers will love.