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

If you’re a Sherlock Holmes fan or just someone intrigued by London’s literary and filming history, a guided tour with Richards Tours promises a personalized peek into Holmes’s world. Based on what we’ve gathered from reviews and the tour description, this experience offers a thoughtful combination of classic Doyle locations and modern BBC-set scenes, all wrapped up in a cozy, small-group setting.

What really catches our eye is the small size of the group—capped at just six travelers—which means you’re likely to get a more interactive experience, ask questions easily, and enjoy a more relaxed pace. Plus, the guide’s enthusiasm and local knowledge seem to be a highlight, making the sights come alive with fascinating tidbits. Another plus? The tour is designed to cater both to traditional Holmes fans and those who love the BBC adaptation, so it’s quite inclusive.

However, there’s a practical consideration worth noting: the tour involves walking around several locations across London, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with some light to moderate wandering. Also, you’ll need a contactless payment method for the London Underground, which is used to move between spots.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love stories—whether books or TV—and want a manageable, well-informed walk through Sherlock’s London. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a personable guide and don’t mind the walking.

Key Points

• Small group size creates a more personal and engaging experience.
• Mix of traditional and BBC filming locations appeals to a broad range of Sherlock fans.
• Guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge enhance the storytelling and site insights.
• Walking involved—be prepared for some moderate walking around the city.
• Cost reflects quality—at around $122, it’s a good value for a personalized, guided experience.
• End at Sherlock Holmes Museum for independent exploration afterward.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Embankment Station and the Traditional Holmes World

The tour kicks off at Embankment station, a central spot that conveniently connects you to various London attractions. From here, your guide will start with a quick overview of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s stories, setting a good foundation whether you’re a die-hard Sherlock enthusiast or a casual viewer. We like that the focus isn’t just on the famous 221B Baker Street but also on the broader London landscape that inspired Holmes.

As you walk past iconic sights like St. Paul’s Cathedral and Trafalgar Square, your guide might share stories and historical connections that deepen your appreciation of the city and its literary heritage. One reviewer appreciated the balance of storytelling and local history, describing the tour as “a perfect blend of Sherlock and London.”

Soho: A Scene from the BBC Series

Next, you’ll visit Soho, a lively neighborhood that doubles as a filming location. You’ll get to see the restaurant scene where Holmes and Watson first meet in the BBC adaptation—something fans often recognize from the show. It’s a fun stop, especially if you’re familiar with the series, as it brings a modern touch to the Sherlock universe.

This part of the walk is brisk but lively, and your guide will point out details that you might miss on your own. One reviewer called this stop a “famous location from the BBC series,” and said it’s exciting to stand where those scenes played out.

St Bartholomew’s Hospital: Holmes’s First Meeting with Watson

A visit to St. Bartholomew’s Hospital is next, an important site both in classic Doyle stories and in the BBC series. It’s where Holmes and Watson meet for the first time—crucial for understanding their partnership. The guide also highlights other buildings in the area, adding context to the setting.

You’ll have around 40 minutes here, so you can take photos, ask questions, or just soak in the atmosphere. The reviews mention the guide’s ability to share small historical tidbits, which adds flavor to the experience.

Russell Square: Sherlock’s Early Days and BBC Filming Sites

Moving through Russell Square, the tour touches on Sherlock’s early days and the literary community that once thrived here, including Arthur Conan Doyle himself. You’ll also get a look at the spot where Mike Stamford meets Watson in the BBC series, tying the modern show to real London locales.

This area is a favorite for fans who enjoy spotting filming sites and connecting fiction with real places. The guide’s commentary about the Bloomsbury Group’s influence and Doyle’s residence there offers a richer picture of Sherlock’s London.

Speedy’s Sandwich Bar & Café: The Modern Holmes’ Address

No Sherlock tour would be complete without a visit to the “home” from the BBC series—Speedy’s Café. Here, you’ll spend roughly 20 minutes, giving you plenty of time for photos in front of 221B Baker Street, and perhaps even grabbing a snack or drink.

Photos outside the iconic house are a highlight—many visitors find this a photo-worthy moment. The café’s walls are decorated with behind-the-scenes photos from the series, making it a cozy yet cinematic stop. As one reviewer said, this small detail really brought the TV scenes to life.

The Sherlock Holmes Statue: A Fan Gathering Point

A quick stop at the famous Holmes statue near Baker Street is a crowd favorite. The statue was commissioned by the Abbey National, reflecting Holmes’s cultural importance. The guide usually wears a deerstalker cap, and travelers often take selfies with the hero.

This is a fun, relaxed moment in the tour where you can chat with your guide or fellow fans. It’s a popular photo spot and a symbol of Sherlock’s London roots.

The Sherlock Holmes Museum: The Final Stop

Finally, you end at the Sherlock Holmes Museum, located at 221B Baker Street. The museum faithfully recreates Holmes and Watson’s home from the stories, matching Doyle’s descriptions perfectly. You’re free to explore the museum and shop at your leisure after the guide leaves.

The reviews note that the museum is a must-see for fans and offers a chance to dive deeper into Holmes’s world. The guide is happy to assist with further questions or travel tips if needed.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

Your ticket includes a professional guide who’s clearly passionate and knowledgeable, making the experience more engaging. There’s no additional cost for the sightseeing stops, but make sure to bring a contactless payment method for the London Underground, which you’ll use to move between locations efficiently.

The tour lasts roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, including walking and stops. It’s well-paced, but be prepared for some light walking across various London neighborhoods. The small group size ensures that you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd, which many reviews appreciate.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Looking at the reviews, it’s clear that the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge really elevate the experience. Several travelers mention how much they appreciated the detailed stories, historical context, and the chance to see both classic and modern Sherlock sites. The price of around $122 per person seems reasonable for a personalized, guided experience in central London—especially given the small group size and the quality of the sites covered.

While it’s not a marathon walking tour, it does involve some moving around, so comfortable shoes are a must. If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-informed tour that combines literature, film, and London sights, this one hits the spot.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for Sherlock Holmes fans—whether you’re more into the classical stories or the BBC series. It’s also suited to travelers who enjoy storytelling, history, and film locations. The small group size makes it especially appealing for those who want a more personalized and engaging experience, rather than a large bus tour.

It’s not the best choice if you’re looking for a very active or lengthy walk, as the focus is on specific sites with manageable distances. Also, if you’re traveling with children, keep in mind that the walk involves some city streets and a fair amount of standing.

FAQ

Do I need to bring any specific tickets or passes?
You’ll need a contactless payment method for the London Underground, as it’s used to travel between the tour stops.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours, including walking and sightseeing.

Is the group size really limited?
Yes, only up to six travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and interactive.

Are there options for photos during the tour?
Absolutely. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to pose at key locations like the Sherlock Holmes statue and outside 221B Baker Street.

Can I visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum afterward?
Yes, the tour ends at the museum, which you’re free to explore at your own pace.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The walking and site visits are manageable for most ages, but keep in mind the tour involves some walking and standing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-paced, informative, and friendly Sherlock-themed experience in London, this tour offers a lot of value. The combination of traditional Doyle locations and modern BBC filming sites makes it appealing to a broad audience—whether you’re a purist or a fan of the series. The small group size and enthusiastic guide seem to be the secret sauce that many reviewers rave about.

For anyone who loves stories, London, and a touch of TV magic, this tour is likely to leave you with plenty of memorable moments—and maybe even inspire a new appreciation for Sherlock’s London.