See All The Sights – London Attractions, Tours & Sightseeing Blog

The Sherlock Holmes Pub: A Legendary London Landmark for Fans of the Great Detective

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 01:41:51 GMT

The Sherlock Holmes Pub: A Legendary London Landmark for Fans of the Great Detective

Tucked away just off Trafalgar Square, Sherlock Holmes Pub is one of the most fascinating themed pubs in the capital. Combining traditional British pub culture with literary history, it is a must-visit for fans of detective fiction and anyone exploring London’s historic pub scene.

The pub pays tribute to the legendary fictional detective Sherlock Holmes , created by the Scottish author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle . Inside, visitors will find not just a pub but a miniature museum dedicated to Holmes and his world.

If you are exploring central London on foot, it is one of the easiest and most atmospheric literary landmarks to include in your itinerary.

Where Is the Sherlock Holmes Pub?

The Sherlock Holmes Pub sits on Northumberland Street , just moments from Trafalgar Square and within walking distance of several famous London attractions.

Nearby landmarks include:

The National Gallery
Charing Cross Station
The Strand
Covent Garden

Its location makes it a perfect stop while exploring the historic heart of London.

Many walking tours in the area pass close by; it is especially convenient if you are exploring the literary or historic side of the city.

The History of the Sherlock Holmes Pub

The building that houses the Sherlock Holmes Pub dates back to the 18th century , long before the detective stories were written.

Originally known as the Northumberland Arms , the pub was later renamed in honour of Sherlock Holmes during the mid-20th century, when the character had already become one of the most famous fictional detectives in the world.

A particularly interesting moment in the pub’s history came during the 1951 Festival of Britain , when a Sherlock Holmes exhibition was created featuring a recreation of the detective’s study at 221B Baker Street .

After the festival ended, the exhibit was preserved and eventually installed upstairs in the pub. Today, visitors can still see this recreation, making it one of the most unique pub interiors in London.

The Sherlock Holmes Museum Display Inside the Pub

Upstairs in the pub is the real highlight: a reconstruction of Sherlock Holmes’ famous study at 221B Baker Street .

Behind glass panels you will see a Victorian-style detective’s office complete with:

Holmes’ violin
His iconic deerstalker hat
A collection of pipes
Victorian furniture
Scientific instruments
Books and notes from famous cases

Figures representing Holmes and Dr. John Watson appear within the display, recreating the atmosphere of the detective’s fictional home.

For fans of the stories, it feels like stepping directly into the world of Conan Doyle’s novels.

Sherlock Holmes and London

Sherlock Holmes is deeply connected with London. Many of the famous stories take place across the city’s streets and landmarks.

Locations mentioned in the stories include:

Baker Street
Scotland Yard
The Strand
Covent Garden

Although Holmes himself is fictional, his adventures helped shape how many people imagine Victorian London; foggy streets, hansom cabs, and gas-lit alleys filled with mystery.

The Sherlock Holmes Pub celebrates this atmosphere perfectly.

Food and Drink at the Sherlock Holmes Pub

Beyond the literary connections, the pub itself is a classic traditional British pub serving familiar favourites.

Typical menu items include:

Fish and chips
Steak and ale pie
Bangers and mash
Burgers and sandwiches
Sunday roasts

You will also find a wide selection of British beers and ales.

Like many historic pubs in London, the atmosphere blends modern hospitality with traditional décor, making it popular with both locals and tourists.

Why the Sherlock Holmes Pub Is Worth Visiting

There are thousands of pubs in London, but this one stands out for several reasons.

1. Literary history

Few pubs celebrate a fictional character so thoroughly.

2. Unique museum display

The replica of Holmes’ study is genuinely unusual and rarely seen in other pubs.

3. Historic location

Its position near Trafalgar Square makes it easy to visit while sightseeing.

4. Classic London atmosphere

Even if you know nothing about Sherlock Holmes, the pub still delivers a traditional London experience.

Tips for Visiting the Sherlock Holmes Pub

If you plan to stop by, here are a few helpful tips!

Visit during quieter hours
The pub can become busy in the evenings and at weekends.

Explore upstairs
Many visitors miss the museum display; make sure you head up to see it.

Combine it with nearby attractions
Because it sits so close to Trafalgar Square, it is easy to combine with visits to the National Gallery or Covent Garden.

Sherlock Holmes Locations in London

If you are interested in Sherlock Holmes history, there are several other places worth visiting:

Sherlock Holmes Museum on Baker Street
Baker Street Station , which features Sherlock Holmes silhouettes in its tile designs
Langham Hotel , sometimes linked to the inspiration for Holmes

Together with the Sherlock Holmes Pub, these locations help bring the stories to life.

Discover London’s Hidden Stories on Foot

London is full of hidden history, literary legends, and fascinating corners that many visitors walk past without ever noticing.

The Sherlock Holmes Pub is just one of many places where London’s stories come alive.

Joining a guided walking tour is one of the best ways to discover these locations; hearing the stories behind the buildings, characters, and streets makes the city far more memorable.

About See All The Sights

See All The Sights Ltd offers immersive walking tours across London, led by passionate local guides who love sharing the city’s history, secrets, and stories.

From famous landmarks to hidden alleys, our tours help visitors experience London in a deeper and more memorable way.

Whether you’re exploring royal traditions, iconic film locations, or centuries of fascinating history, our tours bring the city to life; so you don’t have to do all the research yourself.

The Lovers’ Clock at London Waterloo Station

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 23:58:13 GMT

The Lovers’ Clock at Waterloo Station: London’s Iconic Meeting Point and a Filming Location Favourite

If you have ever been told to “meet me under the clock at Waterloo”, you were being directed to one of London’s most quietly iconic landmarks. Known as the Lovers’ Clock, the large timepiece above the main entrance to Waterloo Station has witnessed millions of arrivals and departures, heartfelt reunions, and final goodbyes for more than a century.

Often overlooked by commuters rushing for trains, the clock and its surrounding architecture tell a much deeper story; one that blends railway history, memorial symbolism, and cinema.

Where is the Lovers’ Clock?

The Lovers’ Clock is located above the Victory Arch entrance to Waterloo Station, facing Waterloo Road. Positioned centrally beneath the vast stone archway, it forms part of the station’s grand façade and was designed to be both practical and symbolic.

Once you know where to look, it becomes impossible to miss; yet many people pass beneath it daily without ever noticing the details above them.

Why is it called the Lovers’ Clock?

The nickname comes from its long-standing role as a meeting point. Before mobile phones, live location sharing, or instant messaging, travellers relied on clear landmarks and accurate timekeeping. The clock provided both.

Over time, it became associated with emotional moments; lovers meeting after long journeys, soldiers returning home, families reuniting, or couples parting ways. These repeated human experiences layered meaning onto a simple functional object, transforming it into a romantic symbol embedded in London’s collective memory.

Even today, despite modern technology, people still instinctively gravitate towards the clock when arranging to meet at Waterloo.

The Architecture Surrounding the Clock

The Lovers’ Clock is framed by the monumental Victory Arch, completed in 1922 and designed by architect James Robb Scott. The arch formed part of Waterloo Station’s post-First World War redevelopment and serves as a memorial as well as an entrance.

Carved into the stonework are allegorical figures and inscriptions representing victory, sacrifice, and national resilience. On either side of the arch sit sculptural reliefs marked 1914 and 1918, directly referencing the years of the First World War.

This gives the clock a dual identity; both a romantic meeting point and a feature embedded within a war memorial. Everyday life and remembrance exist side by side, a recurring theme throughout London.

The Lovers’ Clock as a Filming Location

The clock and Victory Arch have appeared in numerous films and television productions over the years. Filmmakers are drawn to the location for several reasons.

It is instantly recognisable as London, even without dialogue. The station entrance symbolises movement, anticipation, and emotional transition. Architecturally, the arch provides scale and drama, while the clock itself conveys urgency, waiting, or finality.

Scenes filmed here often involve characters meeting for the first time, saying goodbye, or making decisions that change the course of a story. The location communicates meaning visually, making it a subtle but powerful cinematic tool.

A Landmark Hidden in Plain Sight

Despite its cultural significance, the Lovers’ Clock is easy to overlook. Modern stations are fast-paced environments, and attention is usually directed towards platforms, departure boards, and timetables.

Once noticed, however, the clock changes how you experience the space. Waterloo Station becomes more than a transport hub; it becomes part of London’s emotional geography, shaped by countless personal stories layered over time.

This is a recurring theme across the city; famous landmarks that hide their meaning in plain sight.

Visiting the Lovers’ Clock Today

The Lovers’ Clock is visible from the pavement outside Waterloo Station and can be viewed at any time of day. Early morning and early evening offer particularly good light for photography, especially when the interior lighting beneath the arch begins to glow.

It remains a popular meeting point and photo location, continuing to serve the same purpose it has for generations.

Discover More London Stories on Foot

The Lovers’ Clock is a reminder that some of London’s most meaningful landmarks are not always part of a formal itinerary. They sit quietly in everyday places; waiting to be noticed.

While our walking tours do not pass through Waterloo Station, we specialise in uncovering the same kinds of overlooked details across central London; filming locations, symbolic landmarks, and stories hiding in plain sight.

If you enjoy learning about places like this, exploring London on foot is one of the best ways to understand the city more deeply.

You can explore our expert led London walking tours to discover more of London’s hidden stories.

The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Memorial in London

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 11:40:03 GMT

The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Memorial at Marlborough Gate

Standing at the edge of St James’s Park , beside Marlborough Gate and overlooking The Mall , is one of London’s most important modern royal memorials. Often mistaken for a statue of Queen Elizabeth II, this monument in fact commemorates King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother ; two figures who played a defining role in Britain’s 20th‑century monarchy.

This memorial forms a key storytelling stop on our Crown and Changing of the Guard Walking Tour , helping bring royal ceremony, wartime history, and living memory together.

Where is the memorial located?

The memorial stands at Marlborough Gate on the eastern boundary of St James’s Park , just moments from Buckingham Palace , Clarence House , and the ceremonial processional route of The Mall .

Its location is deliberate. This stretch of London has witnessed coronation processions, jubilees, state visits, and royal celebrations for generations, making it one of the most symbolically charged locations in royal London.

Who does the memorial depict?

King George VI (upper figure)

The upper statue depicts King George VI , who reigned from 1936 to 1952 . He ascended the throne following the abdication of his brother, Edward VIII, and became one of Britain’s most respected monarchs during the Second World War.

He is shown in formal ceremonial dress, wearing royal orders and decorations. The sculptor has chosen a restrained, dignified pose, reflecting George VI’s character; a reluctant king who nevertheless embodied duty, resolve, and quiet leadership during Britain’s darkest years.

Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother (lower figure)

The lower statue depicts Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother (1900–2002), wife of King George VI and mother of Queen Elizabeth II.

Her life dates are carved clearly into the plinth, confirming her identity. She is portrayed in robes of state, wearing a crown, representing her enduring public role and extraordinary popularity. During the Second World War, she became a symbol of national morale, famously refusing to leave London during the Blitz.

Her position beneath the King is intentional, reflecting both her role as Queen Consort and her immense influence behind the scenes.

Symbolism and meaning of the monument

The vertical arrangement of the figures tells a powerful story. Together, King George VI and the Queen Mother represent stability during crisis, unity during war, and the foundations of the modern monarchy.

While Queen Elizabeth II is not depicted here, this memorial explains much about the world she inherited; a monarchy reshaped by conflict, public service, and personal sacrifice.

This layered symbolism makes the monument particularly meaningful when viewed in context with nearby palaces and ceremonial spaces.

Why this memorial matters on the Crown and Changing of the Guard tour

Our Crown and Changing of the Guard Walking Tour is about understanding the people behind the pageantry. At this stop, our guides explore:

The abdication crisis of 1936
Britain’s wartime monarchy
The Queen Mother’s role as a national figure
How royal symbolism reinforces continuity and public confidence

Seen alongside Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace, Horse Guards Parade, and the Changing of the Guard itself, the memorial provides essential historical context.

When was the memorial unveiled?

The memorial to King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother was unveiled in 1955 , just three years after the King’s death. It remains one of the most significant royal monuments of the post‑war period.

A quiet but powerful royal landmark

Despite its prominent position, this memorial is often overlooked by visitors heading straight for Buckingham Palace. Framed by trees and parkland, it offers a calmer, more reflective moment in royal London; ideal for understanding the human stories behind royal tradition.

See this memorial on our Crown and Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother memorial is featured on our Crown and Changing of the Guard Walking Tour . Led by expert local guides, the tour includes:

Prime viewing locations for the Changing of the Guard
Royal palaces and ceremonial routes
Hidden stories behind Britain’s most famous traditions
Insight into the modern monarchy and its symbols

It’s the ideal way to experience royal London beyond the surface.

Harry Potter Filming Locations You Can Visit in London

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 01:49:53 GMT

Harry Potter Filming Locations

You Can Visit in London

London played a starring role in the Harry Potter films, with real streets, bridges, stations, markets, and landmarks transformed into the wizarding world. The best part is that many of these locations are places you can still visit today.

Whether you are a dedicated Harry Potter fan or simply curious, here is a comprehensive guide to the Harry Potter filming locations you can visit in London , along with practical tips to help you plan your visit.

King’s Cross Station (Platform 9¾)

King’s Cross Station is one of the most famous Harry Potter locations in the world. While the actual filming of the Hogwarts Express scenes took place on a set, the idea of Platform 9¾ lives on here.

Today, visitors can:

Take photos with the luggage trolley disappearing into the wall
Visit the official Harry Potter shop
Explore the historic station itself

Tip: The photo spot can be very busy from late morning onwards. Early mornings or evenings are usually quieter.

Location: King’s Cross Station, N1C

Millennium Bridge

The Millennium Bridge appears dramatically in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, where it is destroyed by Death Eaters during an attack on London.

In reality, the bridge is very much intact and offers excellent views of the River Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral, and Tate Modern. It is a key stop on many Harry Potter walking routes.

Location: Millennium Bridge, EC4

Leadenhall Market (Diagon Alley)

Leadenhall Market doubled as Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Its Victorian architecture and ornate covered walkways made it the perfect stand-in for the wizarding shopping street.

Visitors can still spot:

The entrance used as the Leaky Cauldron
Decorative historic shopfronts
A lively weekday market atmosphere

Location: Leadenhall Market, EC3

Claremont Square (Grimmauld Place)

The exterior of 12 Grimmauld Place, the ancestral home of the Black family, was filmed at Claremont Square in Islington. The quiet Georgian square provided an ideal setting for this secretive magical residence.

While interior scenes were filmed on a set, the square itself remains largely unchanged and is worth visiting for fans.

Location: Claremont Square, N1

Australia House (Gringotts Wizarding Bank)

Australia House on Strand was used as the interior of Gringotts Wizarding Bank in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Its grand marble hall and chandeliers created the impressive wizarding bank seen on screen.

Australia House is a working diplomatic building, so interior access is limited, but the exterior can be viewed freely.

Location: Strand, WC2

Lambeth Bridge

Lambeth Bridge features briefly in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban during the Knight Bus sequence. The red-painted bridge provides a visual contrast to nearby Westminster Bridge.

It is an often-overlooked filming location that adds depth to a Harry Potter walking tour.

Location: Lambeth Bridge, SE1

Borough Market

Borough Market appears in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban during scenes connected to the Leaky Cauldron. The bustling historic market area was used for exterior shots near the wizarding pub.

Today, Borough Market is one of London’s most famous food markets and a popular stop on walking routes through Southwark.

Location: Borough Market, SE1

Southwark Bridge

Southwark Bridge is visible in Harry Potter and the Order of The Phoenix during the Flight of The Order scene that also features several other London Bridges.

Although less well known than neighbouring bridges, it offers excellent views along the Thames and is easily combined with other nearby filming locations.

Location: Southwark Bridge, EC4

St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral was used in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban as the inspiration for the staircase leading to Professor Trelawney’s Divination classroom at Hogwarts.

The distinctive spiral staircase seen in the film was created using elements of the cathedral’s architectural style, making St Paul’s a particularly interesting stop for Harry Potter fans exploring London filming influences.

While interior filming did not take place inside the cathedral itself, the exterior and surrounding area remain a striking landmark to visit.

Location: St Paul’s Cathedral, EC4

Scotland Place (Ministry of Magic Entrance)

A red telephone box at Scotland Place was used as the entrance to the Ministry of Magic in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.

The original phone box used in filming has been removed, but the location remains popular with fans visiting nearby Trafalgar Square.

Location: Scotland Place, SW1A

London Zoo Reptile House

The Reptile House at London Zoo appears in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, during the scene in which Harry unknowingly speaks Parseltongue to a snake.

Visitors can:

See the reptile enclosures used as the filming backdrop
Explore the wider London Zoo site
Combine the visit with Regent’s Park nearby

This is one of the few Harry Potter-related locations in London that requires an entry ticket.

Location: London Zoo, NW1

House of MinaLima

While not a filming location, the House of MinaLima is highly relevant for Harry Potter fans. MinaLima are the graphic designers behind many of the iconic props seen throughout the films.

Visitors can:

View original Harry Potter graphic artwork
See props and designs from the films
Visit a free gallery in central Soho

Location: Greek Street, Soho

Can You Visit All These Harry Potter Locations in One Day?

Many of London’s Harry Potter filming locations are within walking distance of each other or easily connected by public transport. Visiting them as part of a guided walking tour can help you:

See locations in a logical order
Learn behind-the-scenes stories from a local guide
Avoid missing lesser-known spots

If you would like to explore these sites with a knowledgeable guide, our Harry Potter walking tour in London covers many of the locations listed above , alongside other famous landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Harry Potter filming locations in London free to visit?

Most filming locations, such as King’s Cross Station, Leadenhall Market, Millennium Bridge, and Lambeth Bridge, are free to visit. Some locations, including London Zoo, require an entry ticket, while others like Australia House can only be viewed from the outside.

What is the best time to visit Harry Potter filming locations in London?

Early mornings are generally best, especially for popular spots like Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross. Visiting outside peak tourist seasons can also help avoid crowds.

Final Tips for Harry Potter Fans Visiting London

Wear comfortable shoes, as many locations are best explored on foot
Combine filming locations with nearby historic sights
Plan visits early in the day for popular locations

From iconic bridges to hidden streets, London offers a magical experience for Harry Potter fans. Seeing the filming locations in person brings the wizarding world to life in a unique and memorable way.

Boudica Statue on Westminster Bridge | Warrior Queen of London – See All The Sights

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 23:12:39 GMT

Boudica on Westminster Bridge

The Warrior Queen Who Burned Roman London

Boudica on Westminster Bridge

The Warrior Queen Who Burned Roman London

Just steps from the roar of Westminster Bridge, with the Thames sliding past and Parliament rising behind her, a fierce ancient queen stands frozen in bronze. Spear raised, horses rearing, daughters beside he r, Boudica looks as i f she is about to charge straight into the heart of modern London.

Most people walk past this statue without realising they are standing beside one of the most powerful symbols of rebellion in British history.

Where to Find the Statue

The Boudica statue sta nds at the northern end of Westminster Bridge on Victoria Embankment, beside the River Thames and Westminster Pier. With Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament behind her, it is one of the most dramatic and symbolic locations in London.

It feels as though Boudica is still facing down power itself.

What the Statue Shows

Officially title d “Boadicea and Her Daughters”, th e sculpture captures a moment of fierce determination. Boudica stands upright in a war chariot with her spear raised, her two daughters ride beside her, two powerful horses rear forward, and scythes fitted to the wheels give the chariot a terrifying, war-like presence. The scene is designed to look unstoppable — not a queen in defeat, but a leader at the height of defiance.

Why the Statue Uses the Wrong Name

The queen’s correct name is Boudica, although you will sometimes see Boudicca used as a Latinised version. The spelling “Boadicea”, which appears on the Westminster statue, is actually a Victorian error that came from a medieval copying mistake; it became popular in poems, paintings, and monuments even though it is historically wrong. “Bodica” and “Bodcea” ar e simply modern misspellings.

Who Created It

The statue was designed by Victorian sculpto r Thomas Thornycroft. He began work on it in the 1850s, but it was not installed in Westminster until 1902, long after his death. The Victorians were fa scinated by heroic British origin stories, and Boudica — a fearless woman who fought a mighty empire — fitted perfectly into their vision of national pride.

Who Was Boudica?

Boudica was queen of the Iceni, a powerful tribe in what is now East Anglia. After the Roman conquest of Britain, her people lived under Roman control, but tension was constant. When Boudica’s husband Prasutagus d ied, Roman officials moved in to seize Iceni lands. According to ancient sources, Boudica was publicly beaten and her daughters were attacked. This brutal treatment sparked one of the greatest revolts in British history.

The Rebellion That Burned London

In AD 60–61, Boudica united several tribes and launched a massive uprising against Roman rule. Three major Roman cities were destroyed: Colchester (Camulodunum), London (Londinium), and St Albans (Verulamium). London was burned to the ground. Even today, archaeologists can find a layer of ash beneath the streets — the physical scar of Boudica’s rebellion.

The Final Battle

The Romans eventually regrouped under t heir governor, Suetonius Paulinus, and defeated Boudica’s army in a decisive battle along what became known as Watling Street. Rather tha n be captured, Boudica is believed to have taken poison. Her rebellion failed — but her legend lived on.

Why She Stands Beside Parliament

The location of the statue is no accident. Placing Boudica beside Westminster and Parliament gives her a powerful meaning. She represents resistance, justice, and the fight against oppression — standing forever in the shadow of modern British power. It is one of the most symbolic statues in the entire city.

See Boudica on Our London Walking Tours

You can see the Boudica statue up close on several of our most popular See All The Sights experiences.

On the Harry Potter Filming Location Walking Tour in London , you walk past Boudica while exploring the real Westminster streets that link together famous film locations, Diagon Alley inspirations, and Ministry of Magic settings.

During the London Christmas Lights and History Walking Tour , Boudica stands dramatically beside the Thames as Westminster glows with festive lights, creating one of the most atmospheric moments of the entire walk.

And on the London Royal Crown and Changing of the Guard Walking Tour , you pass this powerful monument while exploring the political and royal heart of the capital, from Parliament Square to Buckingham Palace.

Each route shows Boudica in a different light; film, festivity, and royal history all meet beside this defiant queen, making her one of the most memorable landmarks on our London walks.

The Oldest Pub In London

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 23:40:58 GMT

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

The Oldest Pub in London

Explore the history, famous writers and hidden rooms of London’s most legendary historic pub.

Tucked away on a narrow alley just off Fleet Street sits one of London’s greatest hidden treasures Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese. Often described as the oldest pub in London this atmospheric tavern has been serving ale stories and literary inspiration for nearly four centuries.

Rebuilt in 1667 just one year after the Great Fire of London the pub stands on the site of a much older medieval tavern making it one of the most historically rich drinking spots in the capital.

Where is Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese?

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is located at 145 Fleet Street down a small passageway called Wine Office Court. From the outside it is easy to miss but step inside and you are instantly transported back to a darker candlelit London of roaring fires oak beams and stone floors.

Its hidden location only adds to the feeling that you have stumbled into a secret from another age.

A favourite of Charles Dickens

One of the pub’s most famous regulars was Charles Dickens who often drank here while working nearby. The atmosphere of Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese dark crowded and buzzing with conversation perfectly matched the London he described in his novels.

It is widely believed that the pub helped inspire scenes in works such as Oliver Twist and A Tale of Two Cities both of which capture the gritty energetic spirit of Victorian London.

Even today Dickens’ name is proudly displayed inside the pub reminding visitors that they are standing where one of Britain’s greatest writers once stood.

A literary hotspot for centuries

Dickens was far from the only famous author to pass through its doors. Over the years Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese has welcomed a long list of literary giants including

Samuel Johnson who lived nearby and compiled the first English dictionary
Mark Twain who famously called it one of London’s great wonders
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle creator of Sherlock Holmes
W B Yeats and T S Eliot two of the twentieth century’s most important poets

This extraordinary history has made Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese one of the most famous literary pubs in London.

J K Rowling and the wizarding world connection

Although Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is best known for its links to Charles Dickens and other historic writers many visitors also associate the pub with the wider tradition of British storytelling that includes modern authors like J K Rowling.

While Rowling is not known to have written here the pub’s dark wooden rooms narrow staircases and candlelit corners feel straight out of the wizarding world making it easy to see why Harry Potter fans love visiting this legendary London tavern.

A pub that feels frozen in time

What makes Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese so special is how little it has changed. The pub is built like a maze with low ceilings narrow staircases and small rooms that feel more like an old inn than a modern bar.

Downstairs you will find cellars that date back hundreds of years once used to store barrels of ale and now forming part of the pub’s unforgettable atmosphere.

The wooden benches open fireplaces and historic portraits make it one of the best places in London to experience what a traditional English pub once felt like.

Still popular with writers and creatives today

Just as it attracted Dickens and Conan Doyle Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese continues to draw modern authors journalists and creatives who work around Fleet Street and the nearby legal district.

It remains a place where stories are written ideas are shared and London’s literary spirit lives on just as it has for generations.

A must visit stop on any London walking tour

Because of its location near Fleet Street the Royal Courts of Justice and the historic heart of the city Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is a key stop on many London walking tours.

It is the perfect place to pause step inside and enjoy a drink in a pub that has survived plagues fires wars and centuries of change while still serving pints to visitors from around the world.

Explore London’s Magical Streets

London’s hidden alleys, historic pubs, and old passageways helped shape the atmosphere that inspired the wizarding world. If you enjoy places like Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, you’ll also enjoy our Harry Potter Filming Location Walking Tour in London , which explores the real streets, courtyards, and historic corners that brought Harry Potter’s London to life.

The Harry Potter Statue in Leicester Square

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 14:36:18 GMT

The Harry Potter Statue in Leicester Square

Hidden in the heart of London’s famous Leicester Square is a magical surprise for Harry Potter fans — a life-size bronze statue of the world’s most famous wizard. Whether you’re a devoted Potterhead or simply exploring London’s West End, this statue has quickly become one of the capital’s most photographed film landmarks.

If you’d like to see this statue as part of a wider Harry Potter adventure, our Harry Potter Filming Locations Walking Tour takes you to the real London places behind the films; including Leicester Square, Diagon Alley inspirations, and Ministry of Magic filming spots.

Where is the Harry Potter statue?

You’ll find the statue just off Leicester Square, outside the Odeon Luxe cinema, right beside the entrance to Leicester Court . It’s only a few minutes’ walk from Piccadilly Circus and is perfectly placed for visitors exploring London’s theatre district.

The statue shows Harry Potter mid-spell, wand raised and robes flowing, capturing the moment he first steps into the wizarding world.

Why is the statue in Leicester Square?

The statue was unveiled as part of Leicester Square’s Scenes in the Square project, a permanent outdoor film trail celebrating iconic characters from cinema history. Alongside Harry Potter, you’ll also find figures from Star Wars, DC Comics, Mary Poppins and other legendary films — turning the square into a free, open-air movie museum.

Harry Potter was chosen because the film series is one of the most successful and beloved franchises ever made, and London plays a central role in the wizarding world.

What makes this statue special?

This is the only official Harry Potter statue in London , making it a must-visit for fans. It represents Daniel Radcliffe as Harry, wearing his Hogwarts robes and holding his wand in a powerful pose.

At night, the statue is beautifully lit, giving it an even more magical atmosphere — perfect for photos and evening strolls.

A must-stop on any Harry Potter walking tour

Leicester Square sits in the middle of many famous Harry Potter filming locations. From here, you’re within walking distance of:

Ministry of Magic filming location
Diagon Alley inspiration – the real streets that inspired the wizarding shopping district
Knockturn Alley inspiration – the dark, atmospheric lanes behind the films
Palace Theatre – home of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

That’s why this statue is a key stop on many London Harry Potter walking tours, including routes run by See All The Sights.

How to visit

The statue is outdoors and completely free to see. It’s open 24 hours a day and doesn’t require tickets or bookings — simply turn up and enjoy the magic.

The best times to visit are early morning or evening when Leicester Square is quieter and the lighting is at its best.

See All The Sights – London Attractions, Tours & Sightseeing Blog

The Sherlock Holmes Pub: A Legendary London Landmark for Fans of the Great Detective

The Sherlock Holmes Pub: A Legendary London Landmark for Fans of the Great Detective

Where Is the Sherlock Holmes Pub?

The History of the Sherlock Holmes Pub

The Sherlock Holmes Museum Display Inside the Pub

Sherlock Holmes and London

Food and Drink at the Sherlock Holmes Pub

Why the Sherlock Holmes Pub Is Worth Visiting

1. Literary history

2. Unique museum display

3. Historic location

4. Classic London atmosphere

Tips for Visiting the Sherlock Holmes Pub

Sherlock Holmes Locations in London

Discover London’s Hidden Stories on Foot

About See All The Sights

The Lovers’ Clock at London Waterloo Station

The Lovers’ Clock at Waterloo Station: London’s Iconic Meeting Point and a Filming Location Favourite

Where is the Lovers’ Clock?

Why is it called the Lovers’ Clock?

The Architecture Surrounding the Clock

The Lovers’ Clock as a Filming Location

A Landmark Hidden in Plain Sight

Visiting the Lovers’ Clock Today

Discover More London Stories on Foot

The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Memorial in London

The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Memorial at Marlborough Gate

Where is the memorial located?

Who does the memorial depict?

King George VI (upper figure)

Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother (lower figure)

Symbolism and meaning of the monument

Why this memorial matters on the Crown and Changing of the Guard tour

When was the memorial unveiled?

A quiet but powerful royal landmark

See this memorial on our Crown and Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Harry Potter Filming Locations You Can Visit in London

Harry Potter Filming Locations

﻿ You Can Visit in London

King’s Cross Station (Platform 9¾)

Millennium Bridge

Leadenhall Market (Diagon Alley)

Claremont Square (Grimmauld Place)

Australia House (Gringotts Wizarding Bank)

Lambeth Bridge

Borough Market

Southwark Bridge

St Paul’s Cathedral

Scotland Place (Ministry of Magic Entrance)

London Zoo Reptile House

House of MinaLima

Can You Visit All These Harry Potter Locations in One Day?

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Harry Potter filming locations in London free to visit?

What is the best time to visit Harry Potter filming locations in London?

Final Tips for Harry Potter Fans Visiting London

Boudica Statue on Westminster Bridge | Warrior Queen of London – See All The Sights

Boudica on Westminster Bridge

The Warrior Queen Who Burned Roman London

Boudica on Westminster Bridge

The Warrior Queen Who Burned Roman London

Where to Find the Statue

What the Statue Shows

Why the Statue Uses the Wrong Name

Who Created It

Who Was Boudica?

The Rebellion That Burned London

The Final Battle

Why She Stands Beside Parliament

See Boudica on Our London Walking Tours

The Oldest Pub In London

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

The Oldest Pub in London

Explore the history, famous writers and hidden rooms of London’s most legendary historic pub.

Where is Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese?

A favourite of Charles Dickens

A literary hotspot for centuries

J K Rowling and the wizarding world connection

A pub that feels frozen in time

You Can Visit in London