Midsomer Murders Tour from London

Exploring the Midsomer Murders Tour from London: A Guide for Fans and Curious Travelers

If you’re a fan of the long-running TV series Midsomer Murders, or simply someone who loves scenic countryside and quaint English villages, this guided tour might catch your eye. It promises a day out exploring the real-world locations that have brought the fictional Midsomer to life—think charming cottages, historic pubs, and rolling hills—just a short trip from London.

What we find particularly appealing about this experience is its focus on behind-the-scenes insights and the chance to see the picturesque settings that have become so familiar on screen. The tour is well-rated, with a perfect 5-star review score from over 113 travelers, and most recommend it highly. Plus, with a reasonable price point around $117 per person and a full day of exploration, it offers solid value for fans and casual visitors alike.

That said, as with any guided day trip, there are some considerations. For example, the tour lasts about 9 hours, which might feel long for some, especially if you prefer more leisurely mornings or have mobility concerns. Also, the stops are designed to be quick visits rather than in-depth exploration, so if you’re hoping for extensive sightseeing or independent wandering, it’s good to keep expectations aligned.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy TV series tourism, appreciate beautiful countryside views, and want a taste of local culture through small towns and historic sites. It’s a day that balances entertainment with scenic relaxation, making it ideal for fans, couples, or groups wanting a fun and informative escape from London’s hustle.

Key Points

• Perfect for Midsomer Murders enthusiasts who want to see the filming locations in real life.
• Includes round-trip transportation, making it convenient and stress-free.
• Expert guides provide engaging commentary and behind-the-scenes stories.
• Visiting charming towns and villages allows for a leisurely exploration of quintessential English scenery.
• Cost-effectiveness given the full day of sightseeing and insider info.
• Limited time at each location, so don’t expect exhaustive visits—think of it as an overview rather than a deep dive.

The Experience: What to Expect on the Midsomer Murders Tour

This tour offers a well-organized day out that balances iconic filming locations with classic English countryside charm. Starting early from central London, you’ll board a mini coach and head west into the picturesque counties of Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. The journey itself is part of the charm—expect to see lush landscapes, thatched roofs, and cozy pubs as the coach winds through rolling hills.

Meet your guide outside a central London tube station around 9:30 am, ready for a full day of small-town discoveries. The first stop is Turville, a village that’s instantly recognizable to fans of the series. This spot is particularly noteworthy for its role in the show, and you’ll get to hear stories about the fictional detectives, John and Tom Barnaby, as well as see some of the key filming locations. The reviews mention that the guide provides a lot of informative and fun insights, adding a layer of context that helps bring the show’s universe to life.

Next, you’ll visit Henley-on-Thames, a charming riverside town with plenty of pretty views, historic houses, and traditional pubs. The two-hour stop offers enough time to wander, take photos, and soak in the quintessential middle England atmosphere that the show captures so well. Reviewers have noted that they loved seeing the houses, churches, and village greens that feature in many episodes, connecting the fictional Midsomer world with real-life scenery. One review describes this as “a lovely trip out into the countryside,” emphasizing the beauty of the area and the guide’s extensive knowledge.

Your final stop is Dorchester-on-Thames, a quaint town with a rich history and lovely streets. Here, you’ll have about an hour to explore and take in the sights before the coach heads back to London, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. The quick visits are a bit of a trade-off—more time might allow for leisurely strolling or shopping, but the structure ensures you see the key spots without feeling rushed.

The Details: How the Tour Runs

The tour is run by Brit Movie Tours, a company experienced in film and TV location trips. The group size is capped at about 35 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and manageable. The transportation is by mini coach, providing comfort and easy movement between sites. The guide, according to reviews, is highly knowledgeable, sharing inside stories, and keeping the group engaged with fun facts and stories about the cast and filming process.

Cost-wise, at just over $117 per person, this tour offers a good balance of value and experience. It’s a full 9-hour day, which means you’re getting a lot of sightseeing and storytelling packed into one trip. Keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning a meal break at one of the villages might be a good idea. The tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so you’ll need to travel to the meeting point in Holland Park.

The tour operates on select summer dates, so it’s good to plan ahead and reserve well in advance—most travelers book about 142 days ahead, which indicates popularity. The flexible cancellation policy allows for full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind to your booking.

What the Reviews Say

The feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and fun insights. Many reviewers highlight how much they appreciated the guide’s enthusiasm and storytelling skills. For example, one mentioned, “Eva was a fantastic tour guide! She was very interactive and hilarious,” while others appreciated the driver’s skill in navigating narrow country roads.

Several reviewers appreciated the balance between the TV theme and the countryside experience. One said, “Loved getting out of London and discovering these quiet little villages,” emphasizing the scenic aspect of the trip. Others loved connecting the dots between the show and real-world locations, describing it as “so much fun” and “very informative.”

There were some minor setbacks noted—such as a bus puncture that caused a slight delay—but these did not seem to significantly detract from overall enjoyment. A few found the overall length of the trip slightly long, especially if they prefer more time at each stop or a more relaxed pace.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is especially great for Midsomer Murders fans who want to see the filming locations firsthand. If you’ve watched multiple episodes and want to see the houses and villages that inspired the series, this tour offers a tangible connection to the show. It’s also suitable for those who just enjoy scenic drives through the English countryside and want a day out exploring small towns with plenty of photo opportunities.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour’s focus is on visiting specific locations rather than in-depth sightseeing or cultural exploration. If you’re looking for a more leisurely pace or a deeper dive into local history, you might find the stops somewhat brief. The tour is structured to maximize sights while keeping things moving, which is perfect for a quick, entertaining day rather than a slow, immersive experience.

FAQs About the Midsomer Murders Tour

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children are allowed but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves some walking and a full day’s commitment, so consider your kids’ stamina and interest in the show.

Does the tour include food?
No, food and drink are not included. However, the stops in Henley-on-Thames and Dorchester provide opportunities to grab a bite or enjoy a drink at local pubs.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning later in the afternoon. It’s a full day out, so bring comfortable shoes and plan for a long but scenic journey.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll travel in a mini coach, which is generally comfortable and easy to navigate through country roads. The driver is praised for their skill, especially navigating narrow or tricky spots.

Are the filming locations accessible?
Yes, the stops are designed for quick visits, and you’ll have time to walk around and explore the villages, but not for extensive touring or inside visits of private properties.

What if it rains?
The tour operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather. The villages and outdoor locations are still charming in drizzly weather.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Last-minute changes are not refundable.

How do I meet the group?
The meeting point is outside Holland Park Ave, London W11 3RB. Arrive there promptly to start your adventure.

Is the guide knowledgeable about the show?
According to reviews, the guide is very well-informed, providing detailed stories and answering questions about the series and filming locations.

Final Thoughts

If you’re someone who loves Midsomer Murders or simply enjoys beautiful English villages, this tour offers a fun, informative, and scenic day out. The combination of well-chosen stops, a knowledgeable guide, and convenient transportation makes it a solid choice. It’s a good way to see not just the show’s locations but also get a taste of the English countryside, all within a manageable day trip from London.

While it’s not a deep dive into local history or culture, the focus on the series makes for a themed experience that feels both nostalgic and picturesque. Expect a relaxed pace, plenty of photo stops, and entertaining stories—plus the chance to connect scenes with real-life locations.

This tour is best suited for fans eager to see the filming spots up close, couples or small groups looking for a scenic day, or anyone curious about how the charming villages of Midsomer really look. If you’re ready for a cozy countryside adventure with a TV twist, this could be just the thing.

Happy travels, and enjoy your trip into the world of Midsomer!