London: Slow Horses Filming Locations Walking Tour

The London: Slow Horses Filming Locations Walking Tour offers a fascinating 3-hour journey through the city’s streets, highlighting scenes from the Apple TV+ series Slow Horses. Priced as a private group activity with a 4.8-star rating, this tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide passionate about both espionage and film. It departs from Farringdon and takes visitors off the usual tourist trail to see real London locations used in the show, along with some hidden alleyways and historic streets.

What makes this experience stand out is its focus on actual filming sites, from the staircase used as Slough House’s on-screen entrance to key scenes shot at the Barbican Centre. The tour also offers behind-the-scenes insights into the filming process, plus an understanding of how the series ties into authentic British espionage methods. With interior access limited at some locations and a walk-intensive itinerary, this tour best suits those comfortable with moderate physical activity and keen on TV production.

Key Points

• 3-hour private walking tour exploring London’s filming locations for Slow Horses
• Visits to iconic sites such as the staircase at Saint John Street, the Barbican Centre, and Royal Exchange
• Behind-the-scenes insights into filming logistics and location choices
• Exploration of historic streets like Middle Street, Easy Passage, and Goswell Road
• Visit to Beppes Café and Vecchio Parioli, linking show scenes with real London eateries
• Not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to walking and limited interior access

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The Starting Point: Farringdon Station and Saint John Street

The tour begins outside Farringdon Station, where the guide gathers the group for an immediate immersion into the Slow Horses world. The first stop, Saint John Street, features the staircase used as the on-screen entrance to Slough House. This location was chosen instead of the actual Slough House building, which is just a short walk away, highlighting the production’s preference for practical filming spots with character.

This initial stop takes about 10 minutes, setting the tone for a series of carefully selected locations that connect the series’ fictional universe with real London streets. Visitors appreciate how the guide explains the significance of each site, making the experience both engaging and informative.

Visiting Beppes Café: The Breakfast Spot for Lamb

Next, the tour moves to Beppes Café, a real London eatery that features in season five, where Lamb grabs breakfast. Although interior access may not always be available, the exterior view is perfect for photo opportunities. The guide shares fun behind-the-scenes facts about how this location was chosen, emphasizing its authentic, everyday vibe.

Spending around 10 minutes here, the stop offers a glimpse into the show’s casual, gritty tone, showing how simple London locations can be transformed into key plot points.

Exploring 50 Long Lane: The Season One Finale Set

A short walk brings the group to 50 Long Lane, which served as a major filming location in the first season’s finale. This site, transformed into a set for the climax, is where Roddy tracks the Dogs and Standish demonstrates the importance of human intelligence. The guide explains how this location was edited into the story and why it was chosen for its visual impact.

Spending about 5 minutes here, visitors get a sense of how production teams turn real locations into dramatic set pieces, making these spots more than just backdrops.

Narrow Alleys and Hidden Passages: Middle Street and Easy Passage

The next stops are Middle Street and Easy Passage, two tight alleyways featured in the Tiger Team chase in season three. These alleyways are notable for their cozy, intimate feel, which contrasts with the sprawling cityscape. The guide highlights how scenes shot miles apart are combined seamlessly, showcasing the clever editing behind the series.

Spending around 5 minutes at each, visitors learn about how these lesser-known spots contribute to the show’s tense scenes and how they are typical of London’s historic backstreets.

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The Real Slough House: Vecchio Parioli and Aldersgate

The tour then takes visitors beneath Vecchio Parioli, an Italian restaurant beneath the building used as 129 Aldersgate, the real-life exterior of Slough House. The guide points out why such unassuming locations are perfect for covert meetings and how the show draws attention to overlooked parts of London.

This stop gives about 10 minutes to appreciate the contrast between the ordinary appearance and the fictional espionage activities happening behind the scenes.

Jackson Lamb’s London: Goswell Road and Golden Lane Estate

Standing on Goswell Road allows viewings of where Jackson Lamb stands during many key scenes. Nearby, the Golden Lane Estate is where Roddy dances into danger in the series. The guide discusses why these locations are ideal for the show’s gritty aesthetic, especially with their stark Brutalist architecture.

Spending 10 minutes at each site, visitors gain context on how real London environments are used to reflect the series’ tone.

Unassuming Locations for Espionage: Fann Street Laundrette and Barbican Centre

The tour’s focus on Fann Street Laundrette reveals why such ordinary spots are perfect for real MI5 meetings. The guide explains how this location’s simplicity adds authenticity and how the series has brought new attention to these overlooked areas.

Following this, the Barbican Centre becomes a major highlight. As one of London’s most-filmed locations, the guide shares behind-the-scenes details about its architecture, interior design, and filming logistics. The brutalist concrete of the Barbican makes it a perfect backdrop for espionage stories, and the tour discusses its role in multiple productions, including Slow Horses, Andor, and even music videos.

Spending about 25 minutes here, visitors appreciate the blend of film history and architectural interest.

Action Scenes and London Landmarks: Gresham Street and St Michael Cornhill

Moving to Gresham Street, the group learns how the FlyteCartwright fight scene from season four was filmed across multiple night shoots, demonstrating the series’ commitment to realistic action. The guide emphasizes that actual London streets and street names are used, adding authenticity.

Next, at St Michael Cornhill Church, key scenes like Lamb’s meeting with Ingrid Tearney take place. The church’s Roman basilica beneath adds historical significance, even if interior access isn’t always possible. The exterior, however, provides excellent photographic moments linked directly to the series.

The Series’ Climax at the Royal Exchange

The tour concludes at the Royal Exchange, an iconic London landmark featured throughout Slow Horses. The guide describes how protest sequences, Peter Judd’s arrival, and the season-one assassination of Robert Hobden were filmed in this area. It also points out how some of these moments would not work in real London, highlighting the creative liberties taken.

Spending about 10 minutes here, visitors get a sense of how a real-world setting is transformed into a dramatic series location.

Final Stop and Tour Wrap-Up: Underground Station Shop

The tour finishes near Farringdon Station, where visitors can reflect on the various locations seen during the walk. The guide shares additional behind-the-scenes insights and invites questions about the series and filming process.

This short concluding segment leaves participants with a comprehensive view of how London’s architecture and streets serve as the perfect backdrop for espionage stories in Slow Horses.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This walking tour offers a combination of television filming locations and real London streets, making it ideal for TV fans and architecture enthusiasts alike. It’s perfect for those interested in British espionage, as the guide explains how the series mirrors real MI5 methods. However, due to the amount of walking and limited interior access, those with mobility issues should consider this when planning.

The tour’s focus on authentic filming sites and behind-the-scenes stories makes it both informative and engaging for fans of the show or London’s streetscapes. The private group setting ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?
No, the tour involves walking through historic streets and alleyways, and interior access to some locations may be limited.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for the walking itinerary.

Can I visit the locations inside?
Interior access is not always guaranteed, especially at cafés and some buildings, but exterior views are included.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 hours and includes numerous stops across central London.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is outside Farringdon Station, with precise coordinates provided.

Is this tour private or open to other groups?
It is offered as a private group, ensuring an intimate experience with a dedicated guide.

What is the overall rating of the tour provider?
The provider, Tours of the UK, holds a 4.8-star rating, reflecting positive reviews.

Are refreshments included?
No, but stops at cafes like Beppes Café allow visitors to purchase food and drinks during the tour.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking includes the option to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for TV series fans?
Absolutely, the tour is tailored for those interested in the filming locations of Slow Horses and offers behind-the-scenes details that enhance viewing enjoyment.

This London: Slow Horses Filming Locations Walking Tour combines film location exploration with historic London streets, offering a practical yet engaging experience for fans and curious explorers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby