Sherlock Holmes Walking Tour of London

On this two hour Sherlock Holmes London Tour, your professional guide will take you around London to visit some of the iconic locations of the capital that feature in Sherlock Holmes history, starting at the Criterion Restaurant, where we first hear the name Sherlock Holmes in the story “A Study in Scarlet”.

“The game is afoot!”

Written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and first published in 1887, Sherlock Holmes has fascinated readers across the world for more than a hundred years. Since then, he has been written about more times than James Bond and Jesus Christ, and adapted for the stage, television, big screen and more.

Onwards, you will visit locations on foot featured in the original stories “The Illustrious Client”, “The Hound of the Baskervilles”, “A Scandal in Bohemia” and “The Sign of Four”, as well as locations from other adaptations, ranging from:

• The theatrical performances with William Gillette
• The ITV series starring Jeremy Brett
• The 1979 film “Murder by Decree”
• Guy Ritchie’s films with Robert Downey Jr
• The hit BBC series starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman

In addition, you will discover behind-the-scenes stories from the BBC show, the incredible history of Sherlock Holmes, and the variety of actors who got to play the iconic detective.
The walking tour journeys through London via Piccadilly, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, the Strand, and concludes at Somerset House. This tour goes ahead come rain or shine, so please be prepared with comfortable footwear, and perhaps an umbrella. Feel free to wear your own deerstalker – but please, no hounds from hell. Take as many photos as you wish, and perhaps
recreate a favourite scene from your most-loved Sherlock Holmes story.

If you need any information, or more Sherlock Holmes-inspired places to visit, just ask your guide. Please be advised this tour does not include entry to the Museum at 221B Baker Street, though we encourage a visit afterwards none-the-less.

Departure from Piccadilly

Meet your guide in the heart of London where you’ll begin a fascinating journey through the world of the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes.

Criterion Restaurant

Start outside the historic restaurant where Dr Watson first hears the name Sherlock Holmes in A Study in Scarlet, the moment that begins their famous partnership.

Piccadilly and the West End

Continue through the surrounding streets where scenes from various adaptations have been filmed, capturing the atmosphere of Victorian London.

Locations from A Scandal in Bohemia

See areas connected to the story of Irene Adler, one of Holmes’ most memorable adversaries, and hear how this character became central to the detective’s legacy.

Government and Royal London

Walk towards the royal district where stories involving diplomats, aristocrats and political intrigue unfold in Holmes’ investigations.

Trafalgar Square

Visit this iconic square featured in several film and television adaptations, from classic portrayals to more modern interpretations.

The Strand

Stroll along the Strand and discover its connections to the theatrical history of Sherlock Holmes, including how the character became popular on stage.

Filming Locations from Modern Adaptations

Along the route your guide will highlight locations used in recent adaptations, including films and television series that have reimagined the detective for new audiences.

Final Stop – Somerset House

Finish at Somerset House, a grand historic building that has appeared in numerous productions and provides a fitting end to your Sherlock Holmes experience.

Accommodation Suggestions

If you’re staying overnight, we recommend checking out Booking.com – click here for convenient hotel options.

Travelling by Train

Travelling by train? Save money by booking your tickets in advance through trainline website.

Luggage Storage

Need somewhere to leave your bags? We recommend using Bounce for convenient luggage storage.

Need an airport transfer? 

Book a reliable airport pickup here 

Theatre Tickets 

London’s famous West End is just a short distance from many of our tour locations. If you’re planning to see a show, you can browse a wide range of discounted theatre tickets for popular productions across the city. 

Find shows and book tickets here: 

Browse London Theatre Tickets 

London Pass 

If you’re planning to visit several attractions while in London, the London Pass can help you save money. It provides access to 80+ top attractions, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and river cruises. 

Learn more and see what’s included: 

Explore the London Pass 

Is the tour accessible?
– This guided tour is not accessible for wheelchair users or parents with prams or buggies due to the uneven surfaces on the route. British Sign Language is not provided on the tour.

Do children need to be accompanied?
– All people under 18 (i.e. 17 years old and younger) must be accompanied by an adult (aged 18 years or over) on all tours

Is the tour suitable for children?
– Yes as long as they are accompanied by an adult

Does the tour still go ahead if there is bad weather?
– Yes, unless on very rare occasions when we have to cancel e.g Force Majeure

– Free Cancellations – Cancel for free up to 24 hours before departure—no questions asked.

– Unlimited Rescheduling – Change your tour date as many times as you need without extra charges.

– Save £££s Booking Direct – Enjoy the guaranteed lowest price when you book directly with us (the direct operator of the tour).

– Hassle-Free Booking Experience – Get excellent customer service with your questions answered quickly and easily by our expert team who know the tours better than anyone.

– Trip Protection Insurance – Add extra peace of mind with optional trip protection insurance available at checkout.

– Inclusions: Professional guide

– Exclusions: Gratuities (optional)