London: Hidden Baker Street Tube Station Tour

If you’re a history buff, a London enthusiast, or just curious about the secret side of one of the world’s oldest underground stations, this Hidden Baker Street Tube Station Tour might be just what you’re looking for. Offered by the London Transport Museum, this tour promises a peek behind the scenes of Baker Street Station—a place most of us use daily without ever realizing its fascinating past.

Two things we really like about this experience: first, the access to areas that haven’t been open to the public for over 75 years, and second, the opportunity to listen to stories from the staff who worked there over the decades. These touches make the tour feel personal and deeply rooted in London’s transport history.

One thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a casual stroll—there’s a fair amount of walking, and some areas involve uneven ground, low lighting, and stairs, with no elevators available. It’s definitely not suited for anyone with mobility issues or claustrophobia.

If you’re someone who loves digging into the lesser-known stories of London’s infrastructure or enjoys exploring historic sites with a knowledgeable guide, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially appealing for those with a curiosity about Victorian engineering or the evolution of urban transport.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Visit parts of Baker Street Station not seen by the public for decades.
• Historical Insight: Learn about the station’s role as the operational headquarters of the London Underground.
• Unique Experience: Walk through original platforms, old lift shafts, and secret corridors.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share detailed stories and answer questions.
• Duration & Cost: About 85 minutes, priced at roughly $60.61 per person.
• Physical Considerations: The tour involves walking, stairs, and uneven ground; not suitable for those with mobility or claustrophobia issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point & First Impressions

The tour begins right outside Baker Street Underground Station, right in front of the Sherlock Holmes statue—an iconic London spot that instantly sets the scene. Meeting your guide there, you quickly get a sense of the tour’s intimate size, which ensures you’ll be able to ask questions and get a more personal experience. The group isn’t huge, making the whole thing more manageable and comfortable.

The Historical Journey Begins

Once underway, your guide—who is often praised for their extensive knowledge—will give you a quick overview of Baker Street Station’s significance. Opened in 1863 as part of the Metropolitan Railway, this station marked the start of Victorian steam travel beneath Londons’ busy streets. We loved how the guides shared stories from the early days—about the first passengers, their reactions, and how this underground network revolutionized city life.

Exploring Hidden Corridors & Old Structures

The core of the tour is exploring areas that haven’t been accessible for over 75 years. Expect to see closed-off platforms, old lift shafts, and secret corridors that have been practically untouched since the mid-20th century. Some parts are last seen by the public in 1945, which adds an air of stepping back in time.

Guests frequently mention the thrill of walking through these silent, historic spaces. Mel, one reviewer, said, “Very informative and also exciting to see some of the behind-the-locked door areas that the day-to-day travelers cannot get to see.” That’s what makes this tour stand out: the feeling of uncovering a hidden side of London’s underground.

Stories from the Staff & Operational Headquarters

A highlight is the stories about the station’s operational role and the staff who worked there. Guides tap into the London Transport Museum’s extensive archives to bring these tales to life—stories of the station as a hub of activity, and the people behind the scenes who kept the trains running smoothly. It’s these personal touches that reviews describe as “excellent” and “enthusiastic,” making the experience engaging and memorable.

Walking, Walking, and More Walking

Prepare for a fair amount of walking—sometimes in areas with uneven ground or low lighting. No elevators are available, so this tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility challenges or those uncomfortable in tight spaces. It’s a physically engaging experience but not overly strenuous. Just wear comfortable shoes and be ready to explore.

Duration & Value

The tour lasts approximately 85 minutes, which is just enough time to enjoy the key sights without feeling rushed. At $60.61 per person, it’s a bit of an investment, but considering the exclusive access and rich storytelling, many visitors find it worthwhile. Given that you’re walking through historically significant, rarely seen parts of a major London station, this price is quite reasonable.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The main draw is the chance to see areas that haven’t been open to the public for over 75 years—a rare glimpse into London’s underground past. For transport enthusiasts or anyone fascinated by Victorian engineering, this is a genuinely unique opportunity. The fact that it’s the only tour offering access to these hidden zones makes it stand out.

From the reviews, we see consistent praise for the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. Christine, for example, mentioned that the guides were “informative and enthusiastic,” making the whole experience engaging and educational. We also appreciate that the tour provides a sense of connection to the real people who worked behind the scenes.

The historical context adds depth to the experience. Learning about the early days of underground travel in 1863 and how Baker Street Station played a pivotal role as the London Underground’s operational nerve center makes the tour much more than just a walk through tunnels.

Practical Details & Tips

Location & Meeting Point

The tour kicks off right outside Baker Street Station, in front of the Sherlock Holmes statue—a familiar landmark that makes meeting up straightforward. The tour ends back at the same spot, so no need to worry about transportation after.

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for walking
• Water to stay hydrated
• Passport or ID card for verification or safety

What Not to Bring

• Food and drinks (not allowed inside the tunnels)
• Large luggage or bulky bags
• Open-toed shoes (for safety and comfort)

Accessibility & Suitability

This experience isn’t suitable for children under 10, or for anyone with mobility issues or claustrophobia. The walking involves stairs and uneven surfaces, with no elevators, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The London: Hidden Baker Street Tube Station Tour offers a rare peek into the underground world beneath London. It’s a well-curated experience that combines historical storytelling with exclusive access to spaces most never see. The guides receive high praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm, enriching the journey with fascinating anecdotes and detailed descriptions.

While it’s not a casual walk and does require some physical effort, the reward is an immersive look into London’s transport history—an experience that appeals to history lovers, transport fans, and curious travelers alike. It’s an ideal choice if you’re eager to explore the city’s unseen corridors and learn about its journey from Victorian steam travel to the modern underground network.

If you appreciate expert storytelling and uncovering secret spots, this tour is likely to leave you with a new appreciation for London’s underground infrastructure—and some compelling stories to tell.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 10 years old are not allowed, and the tour involves walking, stairs, and uneven ground, so it’s better suited for older kids or adults.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 85 minutes, giving enough time to explore and absorb the stories without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a guided walking tour led by an expert guide. It does not include pickup or drop-off services.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside Baker Street Underground Station, in front of the Sherlock Holmes statue, and ends back at the same location.

Are there any physical limitations I should consider?
Yes, the tour involves walking, stairs, and areas with uneven surfaces. It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s wise to reserve your spot ahead of time. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the live guides speak English. The experience is designed for English-speaking visitors.

To sum it up, if you’re in London and want to see the city from a different perspective, this Hidden Baker Street Tube Station Tour offers an intimate, richly informative glimpse into the past. It’s perfect for those who love history, engineering, or just discovering hidden corners of a familiar city. With knowledgeable guides and exclusive access, it’s an experience that’s likely to stick with you as one of your more memorable London adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: