Sherlock Holmes Old London – Very Small Group Walking Tour

Discover London through the lens of its most beloved fictional detective with the Sherlock Holmes Old London – Very Small Group Walking Tour. Priced at $108.28 per person, this 3 to 4-hour guided walk offers an intimate experience with a max of 12 participants. Led by a professional guide with real experience working at the Sherlock Holmes Museum, the tour promises a deep dive into Sherlock’s stories, London’s history, and Conan Doyle’s life.

Ideal for Sherlock Holmes fans, this tour takes you to key locations like 221B Baker Street, the Langham Hotel, and St Bartholomew’s Hospital. The small group size enhances the experience by giving everyone more attention from the guide. The tour starts at Embankment Station and ends just steps away from Baker Street Underground Station, with all stops covered on foot and local transportation.

While the tour is packed with Sherlock Holmes lore and history, it also includes fascinating side stories about London’s past, making it both engaging and educational. It’s perfect for those who enjoy walking tours and want a personalized look at London’s Sherlockian lore and historic sites.

Key Points

• Small group size of up to 12 participants ensures personalized attention
• Led by a guide with practical experience at the Sherlock Holmes Museum
• Visit iconic sites like 221B Baker Street, Simpson’s in the Strand, and Crosbie Care
• Includes historic insights about London, Conan Doyle, and related figures
• Tour duration of approximately 3 to 4 hours, walking at a relaxed pace
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour begins

Guided by a Sherlock Holmes Expert with Museum Experience

The guide for this tour is a dedicated Sherlockian who has worked at the Sherlock Holmes Museum. This background means you’ll gain insights beyond typical sightseeing, with stories and details rooted in authentic knowledge. The guide’s passion shines through as they explain the origins of Sherlock Holmes, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s life, and London’s connection to the stories.

Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and storytelling ability, making the experience both informative and entertaining. This personal touch helps the tour stand out from larger, less specialized options. The attention to detail benefits fans eager to explore Sherlock’s London more deeply.

Starting Point at Embankment Station and Initial Insights

The tour kicks off at Embankment Station, a central London hub. The first stop is Northumberland Avenue, where the Sherlock Holmes Pub stands opposite a historic Turkish bath. This location is linked to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s creation, as the pub was once the Northumberland Hotel, where Sir Henry Baskerville stayed in the stories.

Here, the guide offers background stories about Holmes’ creator, setting the tone for the entire walk. The walk from the station is around 10 minutes, allowing guests to settle into the London atmosphere while listening to interesting anecdotes.

Exploring Sherlock’s London: Key Landmarks and Their Stories

The Role of Scotland Yard in Holmes’ Mysteries

The group visits Scotland Yard, historically home to detectives like Lestrade and Detective Hopkins. The building has recently been restored and now features gas lamps reminiscent of Holmes’ era. Although Holmes held a critical view of the Yard’s detectives, its location remains central to many stories, making it a compelling stop.

Simpson’s in the Strand: Holmes’ Favorite Restaurant

Next, Simpson’s in the Strand is highlighted as Holmes’ preferred dining spot. Originally a Chess Club and Coffee House, this historic restaurant was frequented by Charles Dickens, Winston Churchill, and of course, Arthur Conan Doyle himself. Guests can peek inside before lunch service begins and see the original meat carving trolleys dating back to 1840, enhancing the sense of tradition.

Walking Through Somerset House

A brief shortcut takes the group past Somerset House, a Tudor palace later transformed into a civic building in 1775, with recent appearances in film. The walk includes descending a 300-year-old staircase, adding a touch of history before heading towards Temple Station.

St Bartholomew’s Hospital: Holmes and Watson’s First Meet

The tour then visits St Bartholomew’s Hospital, known as London’s oldest hospital. This site is where Holmes and Watson first meet after Watson is introduced to Holmes by Young Stamford. The Criterion Bar nearby is where Watson encounters the eccentric Holmes, leading to their partnership. The area also offers fascinating historical stories.

Visiting the Langham Hotel

The Langham Hotel is more than just a luxury stay — it’s a historic landmark where Oscar Wilde and Arthur Conan Doyle once dined together in 1889. This meeting is credited with launching their international careers, making it a notable stop for literature history buffs.

Sherlock’s Personal Life and Iconic Address: Baker Street

Queen Anne Street Practice

Moving to Queen Anne Street, the tour notes where Dr. Watson set up his medical practice after moving out from Baker Street. The building at 8 Queen Anne Street invites visitors to imagine Watson knocking on the door, while Mrs. Watson’s eye-rolling is a humorous touch.

Crosbie Care: Conan Doyle’s Medical Practice

Next, Crosbie Care is the former medical practice of Arthur Conan Doyle himself. He would walk here daily, drawing inspiration from the surrounding buildings and passing characters. The unchanged exterior of the building since 1891 makes it a must-see for Sherlock enthusiasts.

The Sherlock Holmes Statue outside Baker Street Station

Near Baker Street Station, the Sherlock Holmes Statue stands as a tribute to the detective. This station is among the oldest in the world, and the statue was commissioned by the Abbey National Building Society, which occupied 221B Baker Street for some years. The guide shares an interesting story about the statue before the group visits the famous address itself.

The Final Stop at 221b Baker Street

The tour concludes at 221b Baker Street, the famous fictional home of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. Visitors can shop for souvenirs or enter the Sherlock Holmes Museum, which is set up as Holmes and Watson’s shared residence with their landlady, Mrs. Hudson. The museum visit lasts around 40 minutes and is not included in the tour price.

This ending spot provides a special connection for fans, with many appreciating how the tour brings Holmes’ world to life in actual London locations.

Practical Details and Booking Info

The tour features a mobile ticket, with the meeting point at Embankment Station. The average booking time is 56 days in advance, indicating strong interest. The tour price of $108.28 covers the guiding service but not admission to the museum itself.

Participants should have Oyster or travel cards for the London Underground to move between stops efficiently. The tour operates rain or shine and has a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start.

What Makes This Sherlock Holmes Tour Special

What truly sets this tour apart is its expert guide with museum experience and a passion for Sherlock Holmes. The small-group format allows for more interaction, making it ideal for dedicated fans who want a deep dive into Holmes’ London.

The itinerary combines iconic landmarks with lesser-known stories, providing not just visual sights but contextual history that enriches the experience. The inclusion of side stories about London’s history and connections to famous writers like Dickens and Wilde adds extra layers of interest.

While not a tour for those seeking luxury transportation or longer museum visits, it offers excellent value for Sherlock enthusiasts and literature lovers who enjoy walking and storytelling.

Sherlock Holmes Old London: Final Overview

This small-group walking tour offers a personalized and detailed look at London’s Sherlock Holmes universe, led by a knowledgeable guide with real museum experience. It’s perfect for fans who want an immersive experience, exploring both famous addresses and hidden corners linked to Conan Doyle’s stories.

The pacing allows for a relaxed exploration of historic sites, while the storytelling makes each stop meaningful. The end at 221b Baker Street provides a satisfying culmination for Sherlock fans, with options to shop or visit the museum.

This tour is highly recommended for those who value expert guidance and small-group intimacy. It’s a wonderful way to combine literary passion with London sightseeing, creating a memorable experience rooted in literature and history.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Sherlock Holmes Old London tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, covering multiple locations on foot.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Embankment Station and ends at Baker Street, near the Sherlock Holmes Museum.

Is the museum visit included?
No, admission to the Sherlock Holmes Museum is not included, but the tour ends right outside the door.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 12 participants for a more personal experience.

Do I need transportation tickets?
Yes, an Oyster Card or travel card is required for traveling between stops on the London Underground.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome when accompanied by an adult.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the tour involves walking around London.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking on various London streets, so mobility considerations should be taken into account.

How can I book this tour?
Bookings are available online through Viator, with advance reservations suggested due to popularity.