beatles tour london abbey road

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Beatles & Abbey Road London Tour - 2.5 Hours

Join our Beatles Tour of London and discover the most famous Fab 4 sites in the city. Get ready for the ultimate Fab 4 experience on this small coach tour which visits over 50 Beatles London locations, including the world famous Abbey Road crossing! You’ll spend 2.5 hours exploring the city that made the Beatles with live commentary by an expert guide. Highlights include seeing where John met Yoko, the only apartment where the Beatles lived together, the only Soho basement club where the ‘Fab’s’ played and more!

Our Beatles tour of London is available every day (except Saturday), departing at 6pm and finishing at approximately 8.30pm. Book your ‘Ticket to Ride’ today and join us on the ultimate Beatlemania experience!

Beatles Tour of London – Highlights

Our Beatles Tour of London visits over 50 locations in the city linked to the life and work of the Fab 4. There will be lots of stops and photo opportunities as you travel around London with a specialist Beatles guide on a small coach. Highlights include:

• See where the Beatles lived over the years. This includes the only apartment where the Beatles lived together for a while, John & Yoko’s apartment, Paul McCartney’s house of more than 40 years and Ringo Starr’s flat
• See the art gallery where John met Yoko, and where the band met the Maharishi Yogi
• See where the Beatles performed in London. This includes the only Soho basement club where the ‘Fab’s’ played, historic early gig locations and the final live ‘performance’ roof-top concert site
• See the film locations from Hard Day’s Night, Help! and Magical Mystery Tour as well as famous photo locations used for album covers and publicity shots
• See where Paul McCartney wrote ‘Yesterday’ and where he worked on ‘Eleanor Rigby’, as well as recording studios, gig locations and Apple locations
• Visit the Abbey Road Crossing, where you’ll have the opportunity to walk across the iconic zebra crossing!
• Enjoy live commentary on board the coach from an entertaining Beatles Guide. You’ll hear Beatles stories, along with music, memorabilia and photos

Abbey Road 

Abbey Road Crossing on our Beatles Tour of London

You’ll get to visit the most famous street crossing in London, located next to Abbey Road Studios. Millions of Beatles fans have made the pilgrimage, paying their respects to the band.

• You’ll get to walk the most iconic zebra crossing in the world, made famous by the 1969 Beatles album. Released on 26 September 1969, this was the final Beatles album to be recorded but not their last to be released
• Next to the crossing lies the legendary Graffiti Wall – feel free to write a message on the front wall!
• You’ll also see the Studio Building, and get to snap a selfie in front of the legendary house and entrance

Beatles tour – more details:

• Departure is at 6.00pm from Duke of York Column Monument, Carlton House Terrace, St. James’s, London SW1Y 5AJ
• The tour ends at around 8.30pm back at the Duke of York Column Monument
• Tour includes a professional guide and transportation in a small coach
• Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure

Tour Booking

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Beatles Walking Tour of Marylebone & Abbey Road

Beatles tour london.

Roll up Roll up for the Beatles Magical Mystery London Walking Tour of Marylebone including the real Abbey Road location.  There are countless places around London with fascinating Beatles links, spread out over many miles. The best way to see as many of these as possible is by joining our afternoon Beatles London Tour. Your friendly guide will skillfully guide you through Beatles sites in Marylebone and St Johns Wood where significant moments in Beatles history occurred. As you travel along you’ll hear fascinating anecdotes and trivia.  This Beatles London tour is a fab way to travel back to the Swinging 60s and the days of the Beatles.

Beatles Tour Highlights

• Find out where Paul McCartney recorded an early demo of Eleanor Rigby
• Recreate the Abbey Road album front cover and get a photo crossing the same zebra crossing as John Lennon, Paul, George and Ringo
• Hear about Beatlemania and discover the lengths that fans would go to get near the Beatles
• Laugh at the Beatles antics in their films A Hard Day’s Night and Help!
• Find out how a case of breaking and entering turned into a hit song!
• Get an exclusive discount from the Beatles Store before you start the tour
• Pass by Paul McCartney’s London home

During this 2 ½ hour Beatles Magical Mystery tour of London, you’ll be amazed by how much you’ll see and learn. The tour navigates through Marylebone and St John’s Wood. You will take in numerous locations including places where the Beatles filmed, recorded, performed, partied, stayed, married, and more.

You’ll hear about famous photoshoots and publicity stunts. You’ll pass by some of the Beatles’ London homes. See the place where Paul Mccartney created the song ‘Yesterday’. Learn interesting trivia about Ringo Starr and John and Yoko

Throughout this Beatles London tour you’ll be able to build a picture of these Fab 4 boys. From their songs, their interviews, and their relationships you’ll get to know all about them. Learn interesting trivia about Richard Porter, Ringo Starr and John and Yoko

You’ll discover what inspired their songs and where they were subsequently written and recorded.

If you’re a fan of the Beatle’s films as well as their music, then you’re in for a treat. The Beatles tour London also includes a stop from a filming location from A Hard Day’s Night as well as Help!.  See where some of the scenes were filmed and find out what happened behind-the-scenes. As part of the tour you will need a Contactless card OR Zone 1 Travelcard OR Oyster Card to make a short bus ride from Baker Street to St Johns Wood.

The tour ends at the renowned Abbey Road Studios and zebra crossing.  You’ll be given the chance to follow in the Beatles’ steps and recreate their Abbey Road album cover on the Abbey Road crossing. This is one of the most iconic and recognisable album covers of all time.

This afternoon walking tour is designed to complement the Beatles London Walking Tour of Soho and Mayfair which takes place earlier in the day at 11am and visits entirely different Beatles locations to this walking tour in the West End.   If you are a true Beatles fan, this walking tour of London are a must.

What’s Included

• 2 ½ hour tour of Beatles’ locations in London
• Knowledgeable, approachable & fun driver and guide

What’s Excluded

• Food & drink
• A Contactless card OR Zone 1 Travelcard OR Oyster Card is needed for a short bus ride from Baker St to St Johns Wood
• Optional gratuities

What To Bring

• Consider layers of clothing
• Comfortable shoes for a leisurely walking tour

Good To Know

• Accessibility: Customers need to be able to get on a public bus towards the end of the tour
• English language tour
• No entry fees or entries to buildings included

How long is the route?

• The tour is approximately 2 miles long .

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

• The tour is not suitable for a wheelchair due to the need to travel on the tube train from Baker St to St Johns Wood and the uneven surfaces on the route. British Sign Language is not provided on the tour.

Do children need to be accompanied?

• All people under 18 (i.e. 17 years old and younger) must be accompanied by an adult (aged 18 years or over) on all tours

Is the tour suitable for children?

Take a look at our TripAdvisor page or leave us a review. We love hearing from you!

Related tours.

Beatles Filming Locations Tour of West London

Beatles London Walking Tour of Soho and Mayfair

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The Beatles – In My Life London Walk

Tuesdays and Saturdays at 11am

From Marylebone Underground (Bakerloo Line)

Meet point :

Meet outside the main archway entrance of Marylebone Station

The tour lasts just over two hours and costs £15 for adults; £10 for full-time students and over 65s: £5 for Children under 15 .

From May 1st 2024 the price will be £20 for adults and £15 for Students and over 65s

Please book your place at least 2 hours before the start time.

Join us on our Beatles walking tour – Abbey Road and More “There are places I’ll remember all my life”, sang the Beatles in one of their most evocative songs.

Many of those places are on this London Beatles Tour

• So get back with Richard to the place where the opening scenes for A Hard Day’s Night were filmed
• the restaurant featured in Help!
• the former Apple Shop which had the psychedelic mural painted on the wall
• the registry office where two of the Beatles were married
• the apartment immortalised by Ringo, John and Yoko where the infamous  “Two Virgins”  picture was taken
• we’ll also see the house where Paul lived with Jane Asher. Those were the days … for it was in that house that John and Paul wrote I Want To Hold Your Hand.
• And for a grand finale – the legendary Abbey Road studios and crosswalk

Recreating the opening scenes of A Hard Day’s Night on the Beatles In My Life Walk of London

“RICHARD Porter is the smartest man in Britain – at least when it comes to The Beatles. In reality, considering the Sixties pop scene was a hotbed of sex and psychedelic drugs, he probably knows more about The Beatles than the remaining members of the Fab Four can remember themselves.” Brian Crisp National Travel Editor,  Escape

“When it comes to possessing a thorough knowledge of the movements of the Beatles, there are few who can surpass Richard Porter. Dubbed the “Beatles Brain of Britain,” his personal kinship with John, Paul, George and Ringo makes the London tours he conducts for London Walks some of the most popular in the city. After more than 20 years and guiding around 150,000 visitors, Richard’s lead is the one to heed. His personal knowledge adds an element of credibility that is unavailable elsewhere.”   USA Today

“The walls in front of the famous studios are smeared with a million cliches, long-standing graffiti proclaiming the fans’ undying love. Here, several years ago, Paul McCartney appeared while Porter was doing his tour. Springing cheerily from his limo, Paul consorted with the fans before vamoosing to cut his album. Porter had captured the moment. Snap! We are agog. For there it is: Paul looking cherubic. As does Porter, standing before us now, irrepressible, and so likable that you wish you could set him to music. Will lightning strike twice? Will a Beatle casually materialise? But Porter is talking again, more facts, more memorabilia. Yeah, yeah, yeah.”  Traveller

Beatles London Walks and Tour Guide Richard Porter with Paul McCartney

Five Star Reviews on Trip Advisor!

Best Beatles Walk If you are a Beatles fan then you will love touring London with Richard P! My family had the pleasure of joining Richard on the Beatles “In My Life” walk and enjoyed every moment. The tour is very informative and hits many great spots such as John and Yoko’s home, film locations for Beatles movies, and ends at Abbey Road. Richard is knowledgeable, projects well so you can hear every word he says, and takes great care to make sure the tour stays safe and together when walking down the streets of London. I want to go back to London just to experience more tours with this company!

Beatles Brain of Britain

“My wife is a HUGE Beatles fan (I am not far behind) and I wanted to take her on a Beatles tour of London that would be both informative and moving. Richard delivered the goods in spades.

Not only is he incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, he is very thorough and caring: he takes care of his guests all the way through his tour, making sure everyone gets to savor each little delicious nugget of Beatles history and inside information.

I knew this was a success from the start of the tour but when my wife started crying at a particularly poignant anecdote from Richard, I realized that the ‘In My Life’ tour was actually a home run: highly recommended!

Thank you, Richard!!!”

By Richard Porter, author of ‘ Guide to the Beatles’ London ‘ and Beatles tour guide in London. For more on his book and tours,  click here

The ground floor and basement apartment of 34 Montagu Square looks like any other in the area. However, the Chicago Tribune has called it ‘The ultimate rock n roll pad’. That’s because it had associations with three Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Chas Chandler and god knows how many other rock stars who passed though it non-descript front door.

Ringo Starr moved into the apartment in 1965 with new wife Maureen. The area has always been quite hip and Ringo had Mick Jagger and his then girlfriend Chrissie Shrimpton as virtual next door neighbours – they lived just around the corner in Bryanston Mews East.

Maureen was heavily pregnant when they moved in and gave birth to her first son, Zak, at Queen Charlotte’s hospital, Hammersmith, on 13th September 1965. Alf Bicknell, the Beatles chauffeur, remembers getting a call from Ringo at 2am that morning to come to collect Maureen from Montagu Square and take her to the hospital.

Ringo and Paul, who lived in nearby Wimpole Street, left from 34 Montagu Square to go to Buckingham Palace to receive their MBE medals, together with John and George.

The flat was decorated by Brian Epstein’s interior designer, Ken Partridge, in early 60s camp pop star style with purple watered-silk wallpaper, silk curtains and lead-streaked mirrors.

Ringo moved out of Montagu Square after only a few months and into a large house in Weybridge, but kept hold of the apartment as a London base and also so friends could use it. In 1966 Paul McCartney used the basement of the apartment to build a small recording studio.

In his book Paul McCartney – Many Years From Now, Barry Miles recalled that Paul was getting friendly with members of the avant garde and underground art movements. Paul wanted to start a facility for poets and avant garde musicians to record their work. That way a lively exchange of tapes would happen between these people. Paul often let his friends such as author William Burroughs, art gallery owner Robert Fraser, and filmmaker Anthony Balch use the studio to make their weird experimental recordings. Paul also used the studio to work on his own songs such as Eleanor Rigby. The tape operator of the studio was Ian Sommerville, a good friend of Barry Miles. Ian moved into the flat with his boyfriend Alan. In the end the idea for the studio fell through, as Ian got the idea the studio was only for Paul McCartney. The equipment was removed and Ian moved out of the flat.

On 6th December 1966 Ringo let the apartment to Chas Chandler, the former bass player of the Animals. Chas had just discovered a guitarist in a small club in Greenwich Village, New York, and decided to become his manager and bring him to England. His name was Jimi Hendrix. When Chas moved into Montagu Square with his girlfriend, Lotta, Jimi and his girlfriend, Kathy Etchingham, moved in too.

Jimi and Kathy had lots of rock star friends and would invite them to Montagu Square for parties. They also had a rather stormy relationship. After one spectacular row Kathy stormed out and didn’t return until the next day. When she came back she asked Jimi what he’d been doing while she was away. Jimi handed her a piece of paper with the lyrics of a song he’d written called The Wind Cries Mary. Mary was Kathy’s middle name, which she hated and Jimi only used it to annoy her.

After a while the neighbours started complaining about the noise coming from the flat and Jimi and Kathy were asked to leave.

After Jimi and Kathy moved out, the apartment was used by Lillian Powell, Cynthia Lennon’s mother. That arrangement changed when Cynthia caught John with Yoko Ono at their house in Weybridge, called ‘Kenwood’. Cynthia briefly moved in with her mother. Cynthia went on holiday to Italy, but was shadowed by a private detective, hired by John. Within five minutes of her arrival back at Montagu Square there was a knock on the door and a solicitor handed her a writ for divorce, citing HER adultery. Cynthia immediately counter-sued.

Finally, John moved out of Kenwood and into the Montagu Square apartment and Cynthia moved briefly back to Kenwood, which was eventually sold as part of the divorce settlement.

Soon after arriving in Montagu Square John and Yoko asked Apple assistant Tony Bramwell to come to the flat with a camera and go away before any pictures were taken. They then photographed themselves naked and put the pictures on the cover of their LP Unfinished Music Volume One, better known as Two Virgins.

Nudity on LP covers was certainly not common and when the Chairman of EMI, Sir Joseph Lockwood, was shown the photos, he was horrified. John and Yoko were summoned to explain themselves. When John was asked about his motives, he said it was artistic – shocking people was an art form. At this Sir Joe got really angry, he said to John, ‘If you were doing this for art you could at least put some better looking bodies on the cover – why not get Paul to do it – or use statues from a park!’

Time Out later lampooned the Two Virgin’s cover picture and drugs bust on one of their famous covers. Over John’s ‘private parts’ is a sticker that says ‘Member of the British Empire’ – the name of the medal the Beatles were given a few years earlier. Coming out of John’s mouth is a speech balloon that says ‘It’s no good officer – it won’t stand up in court!’

A few weeks later the apartment was raided by the police and John and Yoko were arrested for possession of cannabis. Apparently John received a telephone call from a journalist friend to tell him the police were going to come, so he called his old friend Pete Shotton to help him clear the apartment of anything incriminating.

The police still found some cannabis in the apartment. John later said the drugs could have been planted by the police – in fact the leader of the police team Sgt Norman Pilcher was later arrested himself for perverting the course of justice. It was also very suspicious that a press photographer was present to take a picture of John being led out of his flat by the police.

At the time Yoko was heavily pregnant with John’s child. However, in November 1968 Yoko was rushed from the apartment to hospital where she suffered a painful miscarriage.

John decided to plead guilty to the drugs charge to keep Yoko off the charge, as she could have been deported if found guilty of drugs possession. Also the police said they would drop the obstruction charges. John was only fined about £100 and thought it was the end of the matter but, when John and Yoko moved to America in 1971 the conviction came back to haunt him. He wanted to stay in the States, but the Immigration Service tried to deport him because of the conviction.

Later it emerged that the Nixon administration were illegally trying to get John out of the country, as John was campaigning against the Vietnam war. John’s fight to stay in America lasted for four years until he was finally given his Green Card in 1976.

Regrettably, after John’s conviction Ringo was forced by the landlords to sell the apartment, so ending the Beatles’ brief but extremely eventful time here.

In October 2010 Yoko Ono unveiled an English Heritage Blue Plaque to John Lennon at 34 Montagu Square. I was lucky enough to be invited to the unveiling. Hundreds of fans gathered to hear Yoko make a short speech, along with Beatles biographer Hunter Davies, and members of English Heritage, who sponsor the plaques.

Guide Richard Porter inside 34 Montagu Square

A while ago a musician called Ed McKendry came on my tour – and wrote a song about it! His band The Difference – which is the corporate band of  “Air Products  in the USA, recorded the song on their CD  “Songs I Always Wanted to do” . Below are the lyrics of the song, printed by kind permission of Ed. Walking with Richard Words and music: Ed McKendry. Performed by: The Difference He traveled alone, to Marylebone, hey-hey He’s walking with Richard today Little bit o’ rain won’t turn him away, hey-hey He’s walking with Richard today Chorus Saturday in London town He’s a long way from home He’s taking the tour to see the fab four, hey-hey He’s walking with Richard today Collarless suit, black Beatle boots, oh-yeah He’s making pretend today He’ll cross Abbey Road like numbers untold, oh-yeah He’s walking with Richard today

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Beatles London Walking Tour of Marylebone and Abbey Road

• Expert Beatles Guide
• Gratuities (optional)
• Zone 1 Travelcard OR Oyster Card OR Contactless card needed for short bus journey during tour
• London Beatles Store, 231-233 Baker St, London NW1 6XE, UK Meet your guide outside the Beatles Store, 231-233 Baker St, London NW1 6XE. This is just a short walk to Baker Street Station
• Abbey Road Studios, 3 Abbey Rd., London NW8 9AY, UK The tour finishes at Abbey Road Studios which are just a short walk to St Johns Wood Station
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Abbey Road Studios
• Montagu Square
• St. John's Wood
• London Beatles Store
• Marylebone Station

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• You'll start at London Beatles Store 231-233 Baker St, London NW1 6XE, UK Meet your guide outside the Beatles Store, 231-233 Baker St, London NW1 6XE. This is just a short walk to Baker Street Station See address & details
• 1 London Beatles Store Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 2 Montagu Square Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 3 Marylebone Station Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 4 Marylebone Stop: 25 minutes See details
• 5 St. John's Wood Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 6 Abbey Road Studios Stop: 25 minutes See details
• You'll end at Abbey Road Studios 3 Abbey Rd., London NW8 9AY, UK The tour finishes at Abbey Road Studios which are just a short walk to St Johns Wood Station See address & details

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Buy it with

Beatles London Walking Tour of Marylebone and Abbey Road provided by Brit Music Tours

Beatles Magical Mystery Tour

• Savile Row - Admission not included
• Abbey Road - Admission not included
• Soho Square - Admission not included
• London Palladium - Admission not included

How to get there?

Oxford Street

Oxford Street, London, W1D 2HU

Select date and session

No booking fees

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The Beatles in London: Free, Self-Guided London Walking Tour With a Map

“I can’t believe the Beatles were real”

While the incredible story of John, Paul, George and Ringo began in other parts of the world (primarily in Liverpool and Hamburg) a significant portion of their eventful seven-year reign at the top the music charts unfolded in London.

Below, you’ll find The Beatles London walking tour that will guide you to 15 of London’s iconic landmarks, connected to the Fab Four.

All the locations described below you can see for free .

MAP s of this walking tour: part 1 & part 2

Distance to cover: 6.4 miles ( 10.3 km)

Before you go… If you’d like to shorten this walk a bit, you can use public transportation between points 2 and 3. However, I encourage you to walk the entire way. In addition to seeing The Beatles’ spots, you’ll also have the opportunity to experience two royal parks…

… and London’s beautiful architecture along the way.

In need of a private tour guide…?

[email protected]

The Beatles London walking tour

1. Abbey Road Studios

This walking tour begins at the world’s most famous recording studio, located at 3 Abbey Road.

Click here to see precise location

In June 1962, it was here that Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison and Pete Best had their breakthrough audition.

Prior to this, they had been rejected by most of the other important producers in London.

Despite their less-than-perfect performance of ‘Love Me Do’ and other songs, the entertaining personalities of these young musicians convinced the producer, George Martin, to sign a contract with The Beatles, who were relatively unknown in London at the time.

This recording session also played a significant role in the decision to replace Pete Best with Ringo Starr .

Since most of The Beatles’ songs were recorded here , fans have been visiting this site for over 60 years, leaving their writings on the regularly repainted wall outside Abbey Road Studios.

Although you cannot visit the studio as a tourist (it is still a working recording studio) , you can certainly visit the Abbey Studio Shop located next door.

In addition to interesting music merchandise, you will be able to learn there more about the rich music history connected to this place.

Other big names who recorded their music here: Pink Floyd , Amy Winehouse , Oasis . The music for ‘Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince’ by composer Nicholas Hooper was also recorded here.

2. Iconic zebra crossing in Abbey Road

Just outside Abbey Road Studios, you can find the zebra crossing that graced the cover of The Beatles’ 1969 album, ‘Abbey Road’ .

In the photograph, John, Paul, George, and Ringo are depicted as casual pedestrians strolling across the crossing.

This scene held a metaphorical significance as they were also departing from their EMI recording studios.

‘Abbey Road’ marked the final album recorded by The Beatles at this location, as the band soon break-up.

The iconic photo has since become one of the most imitated album covers in music history, with Beatles fans still today testing the patience of local drivers while recreating the iconic scene.

The association with The Beatles led to this crossing being listed as a Grade II heritage site in 2010.

3. “ A Beatle must not marry” ( Marylebone Registry Office)

In August 1962, John Lennon married for the first time, just before the world witnessed the explosion of Beatlemania onto the music scene.

However, the band’s general marketing approach at the time was to keep the girlfriends and wives of Paul, John, George, and Ringo out of sight from their often hysterical fans.

This approach had two clear goals: to maintain the interest of the female part of their audience and to ensure the safety of these lucky individuals.

As time passed, all members of the band did eventually tie the knot.

The third location to see during this walking tour is the Marylebone Registry Office, which hosted three of The Beatles’ weddings.

Paul McCartney married here his first and third wife (Linda Eastman in March 1969 and Nancy Shevell in 2011) and Ringo Starr tied the knot here with his second wife Barbara Bach, in 1981.

Barbara Bach played a James Bond’s girl in the 1977 movie The Spy Who Loved Me .

The Marylebone Registry Office has been witness to the unions of other famous personalities as well, including Liam Gallagher and Patsy Kensit, as well as Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffith .

4. Flat where John and Yoko got arrested

Between 1965 and 1969, Ringo Starr owned flat no 1 at 34 Montagu Square (ground and basement levels).

During this relatively short period, the flat had quite a succession of famous tenants.

Initially, Ringo lived there briefly himself.

After he moved out, the list of tenants over the next four years included names such as Paul McCartney and Jimi Hendrix .

Jimi Hendrix composed here The Wind Cries Mary but got eventually evicted by Ringo for damaging the flat.

However, the flat is most famous for the eventful occupancy of John Lennon & Yoko Ono .

The famous couple got raided here in October 1968 by Scotland Yard’s Drug Squad and later charged with drug possession.

It was also at this location that they took the famous naked photo featured on their experimental album Two Virgins.

Despite all of this (or perhaps because of it!) the place earned a blue plaque in 2012, commemorating only John Lennon’s brief residence at this address in 1968.

5. The house where Paul dreamed “Yesterday”

The melody of one of the most covered Beatles songs, Yesterday came to Paul in a dream.

When he woke up, he was convinced that it was someone else’s melody; he just couldn’t recall where he had heard it before.

After a while, when no one claimed it, he recorded the tune with a working title Scrambled Eggs .

The dream came to Paul when he slept in the top room at the back of 57 Wimpole Street, the next point on this walking tour.

In 1965, 57 Wimpole Street belonged to the family of his girlfriend at that time, Jane Asher.

6. Place where Beatlemania began

When it comes to the Beatles, often it is hard to pinpoint accurate dates for some of the critical events in the band’s history (even the members of the group could not agree on some of them).

However, we do know for sure when and where the so-called Beatlemania started.

On October 13, 1963, the Beatles played at the London Palladium, and here, for the first time, they experienced the hysterical screaming of their fans.

The next day, while describing the atmosphere at the Sunday show watched on TV by some 15 million people, newspapers used the term Beatlemania for the first time.

The term has been used ever since.

From 1966 the Beatles management offices were located next door to London Palladium, at no 5-6 Argyll Street.

7. The statue of John Lennon at Carnaby Street

Just around the corner from London Palladium and former Beatles’ offices you can find the seating statue of John Lennon.

8. Where the Beatles bought their suits!

No. 63 Old Compton Street 60 years ago, it was the location of Millings, also known as the Beatles’ tailor.

Currently the site is occupied by restaurant.

Millings provided the Beatles with over 500 suits during the 1960s, including the suits they wore at Buckingham Palace (more on that in a moment).

Douglas Millings (the tailor) was featured in the 1964 movie A Hard Day’s Night.

9. Where the Beatles logo was created (and Ringo bought his drum set!)

In April 1963, Ringo Starr and Brian Epstein arrived at Drum City, which was then located at 112A Shaftesbury Avenue, to purchase a new drum set for the Beatles.

The deal negotiated by Epstein at the shop included adding the iconic Beatles’ logo to the Ludwig drum set.

Unfortunately, the Drum City shop no longer exists but the building is still there!

10. Where the Beatles entertained the royal family

On November 4, 1963, the Beatles took the stage at the Prince of Wales Theatre in London for the Royal Variety Show.

Among the audience were the 63-year-old Queen Mother and 33-year-old Princess Margaret.

However, the most memorable moment from this performance was John Lennon’s cheeky joke at the expense of the royal family, which he delivered just before their final number, Twist and Shout :

“ For our last number, I’d like to ask for your help. Those in the cheaper seats, clap your hands. And the rest of you, if you could just rattle your jewelry. “

11. The last live performance

The last the Beatles performance took place at the rooftop of 3 Savile Row in London and it lasted 42 minutes.

This was the location of Apple Corps – The Beatles Office at the time.

There was no tickets sold and no crowds, just random listeners at next door roofs and the passengers passing on the paving during their lunch break.

And of course couple of Metropolitan police officers who shut down the semi-spontaneous gig down.

The Beatles’ rooftop concert at Savile marked the end of an era and today the site is honored with the blue plaque commemorating that.

12. Where John Lennon met Yoko Ono

In September 1965, in the basement of 6 Masons Yard, friends of Paul McCartney opened Indica Books and Gallery, an alternative space for art and books.

The name of the gallery was inspired by the type of cannabis, Indica .

McCartney, a strong supporter of the venue himself, encouraged John Lennon to visit the gallery. On November 7, 1966, Lennon attended an exhibition by the Japanese artist Yoko Ono here.

The rest is history.

In Mason’s Yard, you can also find a Yoko Ono-inspired mural.

13. Buckingham Palace!

There are countless places connected to the Beatles in London, and perhaps Buckingham Palace is not the first one that comes to mind.

However, two years after Beatlemania took the world by storm ( and only three years since their last concerts at the infamous, shabby Hamburg clubs!) , on October 26, 1965, John, Ringo, Paul, and George arrived at the Palace in Lennon’s black Rolls Royce to collect their MBEs from the Queen herself.

MBE stands for Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.

According to John Lennon, the band smoked marijuana in the palace toilets!

Although The Beatles wore the medals on their 1967 album cover for S gt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band , John Lennon returned his MBE in November 1969 with a note:

“Your Majesty, I am returning my MBE as a protest against Britain’s involvement in the Nigeria-Biafra conflict, against our support of America in Vietnam, and against ‘Cold Turkey’ slipping down the charts. With love, John Lennon of Bag.”

Decades later, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr were knighted here for their services in music (Paul in 1997 and Ringo in 2018). George Harrison declined the OBE honor in 2000.

14. The house where Beatles’ manager died

Just behind Buckingham Palace gardens, on the charming Chapel Street, you can find the former residence of Brian Epstein, the man often credited with the commercial success of The Beatles (No. 24).

This house hosted many joyful moments for The Beatles, including the release party for the Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album.

But it also witnessed a very tragic one.

On August 27, 1967, Brian Epstein was found dead here.

The cause of death was ruled as an accidental overdose of sleeping pills combined with alcohol.

He was only 32 years old.

For some, this event marked the beginning of the end for The Beatles.

Out of respect for Epstein’s family’s privacy and to avoid attracting media attention, The Beatles did not attend his funeral.

15. The Beatles’ Pub

In a small street behind Brian Epstein’s flat, you can find a pub called the Horse & Groom .

This is your chance to experience a place that was frequently visited by The Beatles themselves between 1965 and 1967.

This charming and well-hidden pub provided the band members with a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of London and the loud screams of their fans.

Inside the pub, you can find a few photos commemorating their visits.

This is the final stop of this walking tour.

The Beatles in London: The Best Beatles Tours & Places to Visit

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: November 25, 2023

Whether you want to take London Beatles tours on a self-guided basis or would rather join a group tour, this guide is for you! Included is a rundown of seven Beatles-related London locations to visit – as well as seven of the best Fab Four London tours.

Will it be the Beatles store, the London Palladium, Paul McCartney’s home, Savile Row or the iconic Abbey Road you head for first? Read on to discover The Beatles in London – and how best to follow in their footsteps. 

The Beatles in London – Tour Guide Summary

• The Beatles Store, London

The Beatles Museum, London

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Located on Baker Street, the Beatles shop in London is a treasure trove for fans of the Liverpudlian quartet’s music. 

The Beatles London store stocks what is said to be the biggest range of Beatles merchandise you’ll find anywhere on the planet, and is just a minute’s walk from Baker Street tube station.

The products on sale include keyrings, t-shirts, mugs, homeware, bags, posters, collectable items, musical accessories like guitar straps and even autographs. 

Contrary to popular belief there isn’t actually a London Beatles museum, but you can visit a couple of museums displaying artefacts relating to the Fab Four.

Artistic impressions of John, Paul, George and Ringo can be found at the National Portrait Gallery, while the British Library (part of the British Museum) has some original lyrics on show plus handwritten birthday cards and some photos. 

Another option is to visit Madame Tussaud’s, where you can of course see their waxworks. Otherwise, you’d need to head to the Beatles Museum in Liverpool known as The Beatles Story . 

Heading to Liverpool? Read our Liverpool itinerary for Beatles fans.

Abbey Road was catapulted to worldwide fame after starring on the cover of the album of the same name. The road and the recording studios can be found in north west London, near St John’s Wood tube station. It’s an incredibly popular place to visit among Beatles fans from across the globe.  

The location is included on many tours of Beatles sites in London, including six of the seven listed below. Or you can take the tube to St John’s Wood to find it.

At the tube station exit (there is only one here) continue westwards along Grove End Road. About half a kilometre along is the turn into Abbey Road, and you should easily spot both the studios and the crossing. 

The term ‘Beatlemania’ was apparently coined after the band performed at the venue. This took place in October 1963. A newspaper then used the term within their gig write-up, and it caught on. The building on Argyll Street in Soho is also visually stunning, so it’s well worth a visit if you’re a fan and near the area. 

The famous Beatles rooftop gig took place on Savile Row, where Apple Corp has their headquarters. It was the last time they’d play live together, and was called to a halt due to police intervention. The gig was previously unannounced. At the end, John Lennon thanked the crowd and said he hoped the band had auditioned well. 

Marylebone Station was used at the start of A Hard Day’s Night , a Beatles feature film, so is a must for serious fans of the band or the movie. Interestingly George Harrison falling and tearing his suit was accidental, yet was included in the final cut.  

In 1963, Paul McCartney bought number 7 Cavendish Avenue, close to the Abbey Road studios. Apparently he still owns the house, and continues to use it as a London base to this day. It’s in the St John’s Wood area, near Lord’s cricket ground. 

7 of the best Beatles tours in London

If you feel like letting someone else lead the way so you can max out your limited time in London, the following are all contenders as best Beatles tour in London. Options include daytime and evening tours by black cab, minibus and coach, or even a day trip to Liverpool. 

• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Destinations: A Hard Day’s Night locations, Abbey Road, Beatles Store
• Departure point: Royal Court Theatre, London (next to Sloane Square station)
• What’s included: Minibus transport, tour guide, walk across Abbey Road
• What’s not included: Food, drinks or extras
• Means of transport: Bus

The tour begins in the upmarket Kensington area so you can see where the band’s first photoshoot took place. As you tour London, your guide will provide lots of interesting background information while you see the places where hit songs were written or that starred in the Beatles movie A Hard Day’s Night . 

A stop at Abbey Road is of course included, and you can make the famous crossing here. The final leg of the tour is a walk from Marylebone station to the Beatles Store on Baker Street. 

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR OF LONDON

• Duration: 2 hours
• Destinations: Soho, St James & Mayfair districts
• Departure point: The Granaio restaurant, London (near Piccadilly station)
• What’s included: Guided walking tour
• What’s not included: Abbey Road visit, food, drinks or extras
• Means of transport: Walking

If you want to take a Beatles walking tour in London, this very affordable one is recommended. You’ll learn all about city life during the swinging sixties, as well as the band themselves. Iconic locations visited include Carnaby Street, which was fashion central during the decade, and Ronnie Scott’s, a jazz club favoured by many prominent people as well as the Fab Four.

Do note that a visit to Abbey Road is not included on this particular itinerary, though you will see other sites such as the location of their last-ever gig, music venues and locations for Beatles photoshoots. 

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE BEATLES LONDON WALKING TOUR

• Duration: 3 hours
• Destinations: Gig venues, Beatles’ homes, filming & photo locations & more
• Departure point: Sloane Square station, London
• What’s included: Black cab transport, tour guide
• What’s not included: Food, drinks, extras or tips
• Means of transport: London taxi

This private Beatles London tour takes place in a traditional black London cab and is designed for one or two people. During the three hours you’ll learn all about the history of one of the biggest bands ever, visiting about 30 locations related to John, Paul, George and Ringo en route.

You’ll discover all the London districts that were important to the Beatles during the 1960s, including Mayfair, Soho, Chelsea, Marylebone and St Johns Wood – the latter being where the famous Abbey Road studios are located. 

CLICK FOR MORE INFO ABOUT THE Private Beatles tour of London by black cab

• Destinations : Gig venues, Beatles’ homes, photo locations & Abbey Road
• Departure point: Original London Visitor Centre, London (near Piccadilly station)
• Means of transport: Minibus 

This 2.5 hour tour of London takes you to around 35 locations that are related in some way to The Beatles. Included is iconic Abbey Road, where you’ll get to follow in the Fab Four’s footsteps by making the same crossing they did. It lasts for two-and-a-half hours and takes place during the evening. 

You’ll also discover other places where the band posed for photographs as well as where they composed songs and played gigs. The only place the four all lived in together is also visited, as is the site of their final group performance and the art galleries where John met Yoko and where he exhibited his own works.  

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE ‘A Ticket to Ride’ evening tour of London

• Duration: 4 hours
• Destinations : Paul McCartney’s office, art galleries, Abbey Road & more
• Departure point: Central London hotel pick-up
• What’s included: Black cab transport, tour guide, complimentary water
• What’s not included: Food, extras or tips

Get a London black cab ride and a Beatles tour of London in one by booking this trip. You’ll be driven around the city in a black taxi after pick-up at your hotel, touring the key sights relating to the Fab Four. The guide grew up in the sixties, and will share all sorts of stories and snippets of information during the four hour tour. 

En route you’ll see various places where the band worked, lived and played, including Paul McCartney’s current office, the gallery where John and Yoko met, homes where various hits were composed and of course Abbey Road.

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE Black taxi Beatles magical tour of London 

• Duration: 1 day
• Destinations: Liverpool, The Beatles Story, Cavern Club, Penny Lane & more
• Departure point: Euston Station, London
• What’s included: Return rail travel to Liverpool, Beatles Story entry, Magical Mystery Tour
• What’s not included: Food, drinks, extras & tour guide
• Means of transport: Train & coach tour in Liverpool 

Even if you only have a day at your disposal, it is possible to take a trip to Liverpool to visit the home city of the four plus The Beatles Story museum. This is an unguided tour, and includes all you need to discover the history behind the famous British band.

You’ll travel by train from London Euston to Liverpool’s Lime Street station in central Liverpool, where there’s free time to explore the city. A ticket to The Beatles Story is included, in addition to a two hour Magical Mystery Tour of iconic sites like Strawberry Fields, the Cavern Club and Penny Lane. Former homes and schools are also seen along the way. 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT The Beatles day tour to Liverpool from London

• Destinations: Beatles’ homes, art galleries, last gig venue, Abbey Road
• What’s included: Black cab transport, expert tour guide, free water, hotel pick-up

This Beatles tour of London by black cab places you in the safe hands of a Beatles expert, who will show you photos of the Fab Four and tell tales from the sixties as you tour London’s related sights. 

Up to five can participate in this personal tour of the city, seeing where Paul lived and the apartment John and Yoko called home. You’ll see the famous Abbey Road studios and can also cross the road there just as John, Paul, George and Ringo did. The venue for their final rooftop concert and Apple Records HQ are also included.  

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE Fab Four black taxi tour of London

The Beatles in London – FAQs

Areas frequented by the Fab Four during the 1960s include Mayfair, Soho, St John’s Wood and Kensington. The band once shared a home in Mayfair – Flat L at 57 Green Street. The flatshare was fairly short-lived as the growing family of John, Cynthia and Julian Lennon soon needed more space.

A blue plaque unveiled by Yoko Ono marks the spot where John Lennon lived with her in 1968. The address is 34 Montagu Square, Marylebone. Ringo Starr was the one who took on the lease, renting it out to John and Yoko for several months. Paul McCartney also composed there, as did Jimi Hendrix who also lived there for a while. 

Abbey Road is in the St John’s Wood area of north west London, and the Beatles famously used the recording studios there. The zebra crossing the members of the band are walking across on the cover of the album is probably the most visited crossing in the world. The nearest tube station is St John’s Wood.  

John and Yoko met in late 1966 at a London art gallery. Yoko was about to exhibit there and was busy preparing her pieces for display. The connection was said to be instantaneous, and although the partnership attracted controversy they were wed in March 1969. 

The Beatles played an unannounced concert from a rooftop on Savile Row, London in 1969. This was the headquarters of Apple, the band’s record label. They were over 40 minutes in before they were asked by the police to turn down the sound. It turned out to be their last live gig as a foursome. 

John Lennon was shot in New York, not London. The killing took place in 1980 in Manhattan, when Mark Chapman shot him four times. Apparently, the gunman was obsessed with Lennon. 

From the homes of Lennon or McCartney to the site of The Beatles’ last live gig ever or shopping till you drop at the memorabilia store, how will you explore the part the Fab Four played in city life during the swinging sixties?

Whether you opt for an organised tour or go your own way, there’s no denying the influence this trailblazing band from Liverpool had on the pop music scene.

• Complete Guide to the Beatles in Liverpool
• Liverpool to London day trip (all the info you need)
• Liverpool Itinerary for Beatles fans
• London Travel Guide – links to everything you need to know to plan your trip
• Looking for accommodation? Read our guide to where to stay in London
• First time visitors? Read our top tips for visiting London for the first time
• Visiting with family? Read our guide to London with kids and/or our guide to visiting London with teens
• How to get around London? Read our guide to using public transport in London and our guide to London’s manin trains stations.
• What to see and do – Complete your London bucket list with a guide to all the top sights and attractions & Guide to the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• How to purchase tickets for London attractions – Guide to purchasing tickets for the most popular London attractions & Best London bus tours reviewed
• Boat trips and cruises – Comparison guide to the best boat trips and cruises on the Thames
• Visiting on a budget? Read out budget guide to London with tips to save money when visiting
• Free things to do in London – Discover 32 free things to see and do in London
• Best day trips? Read our guide to the best day trips by train and ou r guide to the best tours from London
• Love castles? Our guide to the most popular castles to visit from London

Beatles Passage

Unraveling The Beatles' Journey, Note by Note

Explore the Beatles’ Historic London Tour

Have you ever wanted to walk in the footsteps of the legendary Beatles and experience the iconic landmarks of their journey in London? Look no further! In this article, we will take you on a captivating adventure through The Beatles’ historic London tour. Discover the places where their music was born, where they lived and recorded, and the venues where they performed their unforgettable concerts. Immerse yourself in the rich music history of the Fab Four as we explore the streets and venues that shaped their extraordinary career. Get ready to relive the magic and excitement of the Beatles’ era as we guide you through this unforgettable tour. So grab your headphones and let’s embark on this time-traveling adventure together! Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Getting to Know The Beatles

An introduction to the beatles.

Welcome to the world of The Beatles! If you’re a music lover, it’s highly likely that you’ve heard of this iconic band. Formed in the early 1960s in Liverpool, England, The Beatles revolutionized the music industry and left an incredible impact on popular culture.

The Beatles’ Cultural Impact

The influence of The Beatles cannot be overstated. They not only dominated the charts with their catchy tunes and innovative sound, but they also helped shape the social and cultural landscape of their time. From their distinctive hairstyles and fashion choices to their groundbreaking studio techniques, The Beatles were true trailblazers.

Their music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, and their songs have become timeless classics . From the poetic and emotional ballads like “Yesterday” and “Let It Be” to the energetic and uplifting anthems like “Hey Jude” and “Twist and Shout,” The Beatles’ discography is a treasure trove of musical brilliance.

Overview of The Beatles’ Historic London Tour

To truly immerse yourself in the world of The Beatles , a trip to London is a must. The city played a pivotal role in the band’s career, serving as their creative hub and the backdrop for many significant moments. From birthplaces to recording studios, famous landmarks to beloved hangouts, London offers a wealth of experiences for Beatles enthusiasts.

Visiting The Beatles’ Birthplaces

John lennon’s childhood home in liverpool.

A visit to Mendips, the childhood home of John Lennon, is a pilgrimage every Beatles fan should make. Located at 251 Menlove Avenue in Liverpool, this charming house is where the musical genius spent his formative years. Take a guided tour and explore the rooms where John Lennon dreamt, wrote songs, and honed his musical skills.

Paul McCartney’s Childhood Home in Liverpool

For a glimpse into Paul McCartney’s early life, head over to 20 Forthlin Road in Liverpool. This unassuming terrace house was where Paul and his family lived during his teenage years. The National Trust now operates the property as a museum, allowing visitors to step back in time and walk in the footsteps of the legendary songwriter.

George Harrison’s Childhood Home in Liverpool

To complete the trifecta of Beatles’ childhood homes, visit 12 Arnold Grove in Liverpool, the former residence of George Harrison. Although not open to the public, you can still admire the exterior of the house and imagine the young George strumming his guitar in those very walls.

Ringo Starr’s Childhood Home in Liverpool

Last but certainly not least, make your way to the birthplace of Ringo Starr at 9 Madryn Street in Liverpool. While the original house no longer stands, a replica has been created to celebrate the drummer’s Liverpool roots. Take a walk around the area and pay homage to the boy who would later become a Beatle.

Exploring Abbey Road Studios

History of abbey road studios.

Abbey Road Studios holds a special place in Beatles history. Located at 3 Abbey Road in London, this world-renowned recording studio was the birthplace of many Beatles albums, including the iconic “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” and “Abbey Road.”

The Beatles’ Recording Sessions at Abbey Road Studios

Walking through the doors of Abbey Road Studios is like stepping into musical hallowed ground. The Beatles spent countless hours here, collaborating and pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the recording studio. From experimenting with innovative techniques to crafting their signature harmonies, Abbey Road Studios witnessed the magic unfold.

Experiencing the Iconic Abbey Road Crossing

No visit to Abbey Road Studios is complete without recreating the famous Beatles album cover at the zebra crossing just outside the building. Join the throngs of fans patiently waiting for their turn to walk across the road, capturing that iconic snapshot of Beatles history.

Discovering Famous Beatles Landmarks in London

The beatles’ first london home: 57 wimpole street.

Step back in time to the early days of The Beatles by visiting their first London home at 57 Wimpole Street. It was here that John Lennon and Yoko Ono held their ‘bed-in’ for peace in 1969, attracting worldwide attention. Marvel at the building where this influential couple made their statement against war.

The Apple Boutique: 94 Baker Street

Located at 94 Baker Street, the Apple Boutique was a vibrant retail venture started by The Beatles in 1967. It was a mecca for fashion and art, showcasing the band’s eclectic style and avant-garde sensibilities. Although the boutique is no longer standing, its legacy lives on as a symbol of The Beatles’ creative endeavors.

The Indica Gallery: 6 Mason’s Yard

Situated at 6 Mason’s Yard, off Duke Street in London’s Mayfair district, The Indica Gallery holds significance in Beatles history. It was here that John Lennon met Yoko Ono for the first time in 1966, sparking a relationship that would profoundly shape both their lives and the trajectory of the band.

The Roof of 3 Savile Row

The rooftop of 3 Savile Row is yet another significant Beatles landmark in London. On January 30, 1969, The Beatles famously performed their final live concert here, delighting people on the streets below with their impromptu rooftop gig. While the building has since undergone changes, the memory of that incredible performance remains etched in music history.

Reliving Beatlemania at The London Palladium

History of the london palladium.

The London Palladium, located on Argyll Street in London’s West End, is a legendary theater that has played host to numerous world-class performances. Since opening its doors in 1910, it has welcomed acclaimed artists and iconic acts from various genres.

The Beatles’ Appearances and Performances at The London Palladium

During the heyday of Beatlemania, The London Palladium served as a stage for The Beatles’ electrifying performances. From their first appearance on “Sunday Night at the London Palladium” in 1963 to their final live television performance in 1966, the theater witnessed the hysteria and adoration of fans who flocked to see the Fab Four.

Exploring The Beatles’ Favorite Hangouts in London

The scotch of st. james: a popular beatles’ nightclub.

For a taste of The Beatles’ nightlife in London, check out The Scotch of St. James. Situated in Mason’s Yard, this iconic nightclub was a favorite hangout spot for the band during the swinging ’60s. Rub shoulders with fellow music lovers and imagine the vibrant atmosphere that once filled this storied venue.

The Bag O’Nails Club: A Hub for Music and Socializing

Located on Kingly Street in the heart of Soho, The Bag O’Nails Club was a famous haunt for musicians and artists, including The Beatles. Enjoy a drink in this historic establishment, feeling the echoes of the past intertwine with the vibrant energy of the present.

The EMI Studio’s Canteen: A Place for Creativity and Fun

Within the grounds of the historic EMI Studios (now called Abbey Road Studios) lies a hidden gem – the canteen. This unassuming space may seem ordinary, but it was here that The Beatles and other musicians would gather, sharing laughs, ideas, and creative inspiration. Experience the spirit of camaraderie and creativity that defined this unique space.

The Magical Mystery Tour Bus Experience

Overview of the magical mystery tour.

Hop aboard the Magical Mystery Tour bus and embark on a delightful journey through Beatles history. This guided tour takes you to various Beatles-related locations in Liverpool, from their childhood homes to places that inspired their music. Sit back, relax, and let the tour guide transport you back in time.

Following The Beatles’ Footsteps on The Bus Tour

As you wind through the streets of Liverpool, you’ll learn fascinating anecdotes and stories about The Beatles’ lives and musical journey. From Penny Lane to Strawberry Field, each stop on the tour offers a glimpse into the world that shaped the band’s legendary status.

Highlights of The Magical Mystery Tour

Some of the tour’s highlights include visits to iconic locations like Penny Lane and Strawberry Field. These places not only inspired some of The Beatles’ most beloved songs but also hold deep significance in their personal stories. You’ll also get to see the former schools attended by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, gaining deeper insights into their early days.

Paying Homage at The Beatles’ Statues and Memorials

The beatles statue at pier head, liverpool.

At Pier Head in Liverpool, you’ll find a stunning statue dedicated to The Beatles. Unveiled in 2015, this larger-than-life tribute captures the essence of the band, immortalizing their image and impact in their hometown.

The John Lennon Statue in Mathew Street, Liverpool

Mathew Street in Liverpool is not only famous for its vibrant music scene but also for being the birthplace of the iconic Cavern Club. It is here that you’ll find a striking statue of John Lennon, paying homage to the man who played a pivotal role in shaping The Beatles’ sound and spirit.

The Beatles Memorial in Hyde Park, London

In the heart of London’s Hyde Park stands a beautiful tribute to The Beatles. This memorial, made up of colorful mosaics, celebrates the band’s legacy and their enduring impact on music and culture. Take a moment to reflect on the profound influence The Beatles had on the world as you admire this artistic tribute.

Immersing in The Beatles’ Museum Exhibitions

The beatles story museum, liverpool.

Step into the immersive world of The Beatles at The Beatles Story Museum in Liverpool. With interactive exhibits, authentic memorabilia, and fascinating audiovisual displays, this museum offers a comprehensive look at the band’s journey, from their humble beginnings to global stardom.

The British Music Experience, London

The British Music Experience in London is a must-visit for any music enthusiast, especially Beatles fans. This interactive museum takes you on a journey through British musical history, and no exploration of this rich heritage would be complete without diving into the iconic sound of The Beatles.

The Museum of London’s ‘The Beatles: Hidden Galleries’

For a unique perspective on The Beatles’ story, head to the Museum of London’s ‘The Beatles: Hidden Galleries’ exhibition. This captivating showcase delves into the band’s time spent in London, exploring their creative process and giving you a behind-the-scenes glimpse into their world.

Experiencing The Beatles’ Legacy through Live Music

The cavern club in liverpool: where it all began.

No Beatles pilgrimage is complete without a visit to The Cavern Club in Liverpool . This iconic venue is where it all began for the band, with over 290 performances during their early years. Enjoy live music from talented artists as you soak in the atmosphere that once propelled The Beatles to stardom.

The Back Room of The Half Moon in London: An Intimate Beatles Experience

For a more intimate Beatles experience in London, head to The Half Moon in Putney. Take a seat in the back room of this historic pub and enjoy live music inspired by the Fab Four. With its cozy ambiance and talented performers, this venue offers a unique opportunity to be immersed in the spirit of The Beatles.

Magical Beatles Museum’s Rooftop Concerts in Liverpool

Complete your Beatles journey with a rooftop concert at the Magical Beatles Museum in Liverpool. This exclusive experience allows you to enjoy live performances of Beatles classics against the backdrop of the city that shaped the band’s identity. Dance, sing along, and let the music transport you back to the era of Beatlemania.

Remember, The Beatles’ legacy is timeless, and their music continues to captivate audiences around the world. So whether you’re an ardent fan or simply curious about the band’s impact, dive into this incredible journey and discover why The Beatles remain one of the greatest musical phenomena in history.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

11 Best Beatles Tours in London in 2024 (ranked!)

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Ready to find all the top Beatles spots on a Beatles tour in London?

You’ve come to the right place, as we’re going to explore the best 11 Beatles tours in London – all led by expert guides who want to share their love of the Fab Four and help you skip the tourist traps.

If you’re like, just cut to the chase already, then don’t worry.

The best Beatles tour is this Beatles Tour of London by Private Black Taxi .

It has over 40 amazing reviews, so there’s no going wrong.

The Beatles are one of the UK’s best-loved bands and spent a lot of their time in London.

On these tours, you can step back into a time when Beatlemania was driving the whole world wild!

If you want to see what your other options are, here are 10 more tours that are definitely worth your time, including the best Beatles tours in London, a Beatles walking tour in London, a Beatles bus tour London and more.

So let’s get into the list of the best Beatles tours in London so you can book it already!

If you want to check out the Beatles in Liverpool, you’ll want to check out my guide to the best Liverpool tour from London .

PS – booking in advance is highly, highly recommended so you don’t miss out.

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best Beatles tour in London is this Beatles Tour of London by Private Black Taxi.

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Easy Guide: Best London Beatles Tours

1. beatles tour of london by private black taxi  .

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 40+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

• Private tour on the best Beatles tour London
• Explore the capital stylishly and efficiently in a black cab.
• Live commentary on board.
• Visit over 30 locations related to the Beatles.

This is the perfect tour for all you Beatleheads who want to see as many Beatle-related London locations in the space of a morning or afternoon, in as much comfort as is physically possible.

After meeting your expert Beatle guide at Sloane Square you will be taken through London in a classic black cab .

On the way, you’ll get to see over 30 different locations significant to the Beatles in some way.

Expect to see Abbey Road Studios , various flats where the Fab Four lived, film locations for movies like Help! , and of course many more.

Joining you the whole way will be an experienced guide bursting with both Beatles knowledge and general knowledge regarding pop culture, he’ll keep you entertained throughout the day as you drive through London.

Choose this tour if you’re looking for the most time and comfort-efficient way to see all of London’s premier Beatle sites.

2. A Winter Beatles Adventure with a VIP tour guide + Drinks in 60s bar

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 20+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Professional Blue Badge guide.
• Alcohol at the end!
• See Beatles sites all over London.
• End the tour at a vintage bar.

Relax on this tour as you let your Blue Badge guide take you through a number of Beatles-centric locations – it’s a great Beatles tour London !

You’ll start out in London’s sophisticated Marylebone neighborhood, where you can see the former home of John Lennon .

After exploring Marylebone you’ll stop by the Paddington Street Rose Garden, before heading over to the London Palladium where you can visit the original Apple Store to pick up some Beatles souvenirs, and see one of Paul McCartney’s old homes .

Once you’ve visited these sights, with an obligatory photo stop at the Abbey Road crossing, you’ll go to a 60s-themed bar in Soho , to enjoy a couple of drinks while imagining what it would have been like to watch the Beatles play live.

Of course, your guide will provide all manner of thrilling anecdotes throughout the day.

Pick this tour for key Beatles landmarks while having the chance to buy some souvenirs and top the day off at a bar with other like-minded Beatles fans.

3. Liverpool & The Beatles Rail Day Trip from London

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 220+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  13 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Return ticket from London to Liverpool.
• Magical Mystery coach tour of Beatles locations included.
• Entry to the Cavern Club included.
• Entry to the Beatles Story included.

I recommend this tour to those of you looking to make the pilgrimage to the Beatle’s hometown while based in London!

You’ll start the day at London Euston station where you’ll take the train up to Liverpool Lime Street with your provided return ticket.

Once in Liverpool, spend the morning exploring the sensational Albert Docks , stopping by the Beatles Story (tickets included) an exhibition that provides a wealth of insights that should satiate any Beatles fan.

Next up drop by the Cavern Club (entry included).

After which, stop somewhere for lunch at one of the city’s many sumptuous eateries.

This should give you the energy needed for an afternoon on the Magical Mystery coach tour , where you’ll be driven to Beatles locations all over Liverpool.

End the day on an evening train back to London.

This action-packed experience is ideal for any of you wanting to dedicate a whole day to the Beatles and exploring one of England’s foremost cities.

4. London: Beatles Magical Tour by Black Cab  

⭐️  RATING:  4.9 out of 5 Stars, 19+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private tour for the Magical Mystery tour London
• Pick-up and drop-off at central London hotels.
• Complimentary water.

You’ll love this tour if you want to feel like you’re being chauffeured around London like a celebrity.

Hop in a black cab with your Blue Badge guide and take in the sights of London as you are driven around the capital for approximately 4 hours.

Throughout the tour, you’ll stop at various landmarks that are relevant in some way to the Beatles.

Your guide will inform you of their significance while at the same time regaling you with anecdotes that make you realise just how interconnected London’s music scene was throughout the 60s.

Expect to see where John met Yoko , where Paul and John composed some of their best-known songs, the Abbey Road crossing and many more.

At each major stop-off point, you’ll get the chance to jump out for photos.

This is another superb tour for those who want to see key Beatles landmarks in comfort.

5. Beatles Evening Tour of Central London : a great London Beatles tour  

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 90+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• See over 35 locations.
• Travel by air-conditioned coach.

Step into the world of Beatles like never before on this tour that will allow you to explore London at dusk .

From 6 pm onwards you can take it easy on your air-conditioned coach while your Blue Badge guide traces the Beatle’s history in London – starting from their early gigs and culminating in their famous rooftop performance.

On top of this, you will see filming locations from their various films such as a Hard Day’s Night , Help! and Magical Mystery Tour .

Of course, throughout you’ll be getting off the coach at all the key locations like Abbey Road for photos.

Unfortunately, you can’t get out at all of them though since there are over 35 to get through!

Those of you wanting to seriously pack in Beatles landmarks should check out this tour.

You won’t get many other opportunities to see so many significant sites in the space of an evening.

6. London Beatles Walks and Tours  

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 10+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Guide author of Guide to the Beatles London .
• Discover insights and trivia you might not learn otherwise.
• The start and end of the tour are close to public transport.
• Opportunity to see London on foot.

This tour provides you with the opportunity to explore a good chunk of London on foot alongside an expert guide, making it a great Beatles tour in London.

In fact, your guide is such an expert on all things Beatles-London-related that he even went so far as to write a book about it – Guide to the Beatles London , pretty reassuring credentials, right?

Your tour will start out at Marylebone Station, from which you’ll be taken to several Beatles locations dotted throughout the area including Montagu Square – where Ringo Starr, John Lennon and Yoko Ono all lived at one point , the Apple Store on Baker Street, Wimpole Street, and of course Abbey Road.

During the tour, your guide will repeatedly prove his heavyweight credentials when it comes to Beatles knowledge – dropping insights and trivia that only a true master would know.

Check this tour out if you’re looking for a carefully crafted itinerary which allows an expert guide to show you a number of Beatles sites on a fun-packed late-morning walking tour.

7. The Beatles London walking tour : best Beatles walk London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 10+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Professional guide on The Beatles London walking tour
• Learn about the roots of the term “Beatlemania”.

Explore London by foot on this engrossing walking tour with a professional guide.

Expect to find yourself captivated as your guide navigates you and your group to Beatles sites all over their former London stomping ground.

Highlights of the tour include stopping by Abbey Road (mandatory on any Beatles tour of London), John and Yoko’s old house, 3 Saville Row , and the registry office where two of the Beatles got married on three separate occasions!

Learn all about “ Beatlemania ” – the term used to describe the fanaticism felt toward the Fab Four by fans.

Accompanying this, your guide will be full of stories and trivia that may be new to even the most diehard Beatle fans.

You should take this tour if you’re looking for a pleasant way to explore some modish parts of London while learning all about one of your favorite bands.

8. Beatles Magical Mystery Tour  

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 9+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Visit a Beatles-themed coffee shop.
• Opportunity to see London on foot for a Beatles tours of London

This tour is led by the expert guide – Richard Porter – the same guide from tour number 6 – and author of Guide to the Beatles London .

Although this tour will take you to a number of different locations compared to tour number 6.

On your Magical Mystery Tour of London, you’ll check out Beatles sites, such as 3 Saville Row, Abbey Road, Soho Square – the location of Paul McCartney’s offices , and the London Palladium.

Included in this tour is a trip to Helterskelter Cafe, a Beatles-themed coffee shop where you can grab a drink and some Beatles-related souvenirs if the fancy takes you.

You should give this tour a go if you want a Beatles tour led by a consummate professional who’ll fill you in on a vast array of trivia that will keep you captivated the whole journey.

9. The Beatles Walking Tour of Marylebone and Abbey Rd

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 6+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Chance to pick up Beatles souvenirs at the London Beatles Store.
• Try London public transport with a local.
• Gain an excellent overview of the Beatles.

On this tour meander through London’s chic Marylebone with your guide and enjoy the views, the stories, and the trivia as you stop by various Beatles landmarks in the area.

Your guide will take you to all kinds of Beatles hotspots such as filming locations for A Hard Day’s Night , where John got arrested, Abbey Road and plenty more.

While primarily a walking tour there is a section of which where you will need to take a short bus ride with your group.

This means you’ll need either a Zone 1 travel card or a contactless card.

Also, it’s a great opportunity for anyone feeling a little daunted by the prospect of taking on London’s public transport system by themselves and wants to try it with a local at hand the first time.

I would suggest this tour to anyone hoping to get a superb overview of the Beatles’ time in London while exploring the gorgeous neighborhood of Marylebone.

10. Soho Music & Historic Pubs Tour  

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 440+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Small group.
• Visit 4 of Soho’s historic pubs.
• See where the Beatles filmed Hey Jude.
• Local guide, incredibly knowledgeable about London.

Look no further if you’re on the hunt for a tour that combines the Beatles, broader rock history, and plenty of pints!

Sip on your drink and listen close as your local guide tells you all kinds of stories about the antics that Jimmy Hendrix , the Rolling Stones , and of course the Beatles got up to in the selection of pubs you visit on this tour.

You’ll also get to see where the Beatles recorded Hey Jude, as it was recorded in Soho too – I doubt most of you can see spots as noteworthy as that on your pub crawls back home!

You don’t need to worry about the tour (and therefore the pubs) becoming too crowded either as a maximum of 10 people are allowed on each tour.

Any lover of beer and/or rock music will feel right at home on this tour.

11. London Rock Music Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 830+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Professional guide.
• Different start times and lengths are available.
• Discover locations significant to London’s entire rock scene, not just the Beatles.

Our final tour is another tour that is ideal for all of you looking to learn about more than just the Beatles.

On this tour , you’ll get the chance to discover thrilling insights into the whole of London’s rock history .

So expect to hear stories about Bowie, Hendrix, Jimmy Page, as well as the Beatles.

You’ll travel around London on your luxuriantly air-conditioned coach , jumping between sites like Soho, Notting Hill, Tin Pan Alley, and Chelsea among many other areas famous for their links to rock and roll .

With regards to the Beatles landmarks you get to see, fear not.

There’ll be a story about them at each of the locations listed above, with Abbey Road and Abbey Road Studio thrown in for good measure too.

This tour is highly recommended for anyone seeking a broader understanding of London’s rock scene as a whole.

Hey! Want to use our trusty guides to the best tours in other places across the UK? Check these out!

• 11 Best Tours of the Cotswolds from London in 2023
• 11 Best Tours of the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh in 2023
• 5 Best London Open Top Bus Tours
• 9 Best Scottish Outlander Tours
• 9 Best Ghost Tours in Oxford
• 5 Best Bath Ghost Tours
• 9 Best Bus Tours in Edinburgh
• 19 Most Unique London Tours
• 9 Best Day Trips to Oxford from London
• 7 Best Stonehenge Day Trips from London
• 7 Best Changing of the Guard Tours in London
• 11 Best Oxford Walking Tours
• 11 Best London Rock ‘n’ Roll Tours
• 11 Best London Museum Tours
• 3 Best Morse Tours in Oxford
• 11 Best London Bike Tours
• 11 Best Walking Tours in Bath
• 13 Best Harry Potter Tours in Oxford
• 11 Best Jack the Ripper Tours in London
• 9 Best London Literary Tours
• 9 Best Street Art Tours in London
• 13 Best Evening & Night Tours of Edinburgh
• 15 Best London Pub Crawl Tours
• 11 Best London Bus Tours for Families
• 17 Best Harry Potter Tours in London
• 17 Best London Foodie Tours
• 13 Best Ghost & Haunted Tours in Edinburgh
• 11 Best Edinburgh Walking Tours
• 11 Best Private Tours in London
• 11 Best Ghost Tours in London
• 11 Fun Tours of Royal London
• 13 Isle of Skye Tours for a Magical Time
• 13 Mysterious Tours of Loch Ness
• 7 Best James Bond Tours in London
• 7 Best Paris Tours from London
• 7 Best Stratford-upon Avon Tours from London
• 7 Best Tours of Bath from London
• 7 Best Black Cab Tours from London
• 11 Best Downton Abbey Tours in the UK
• 5 Best Graffiti Tours in London
• 9 Best London East End Tours

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

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Tour of The Beatles' London

This post is a self-guided tour of Beatles London sights as well as a list of guided tour options.

From recording studios to concert venues, shops to roof-top performances, London is filled with hot spots for fans of the Fab Four.

Let's rock n roll! 

• List of Beatles Sights
• Guided Tours
• Abbey Road Crosswalk
• London Rock N Roll Tour
• Things to Do in London
• Free Tours by Foot

BEATLES SIGHTS IN LONDON

These sights are organized by neighborhood so that if you are exploring London one neighborhood at a time so that you can check out a few significant Beatles locales during your outing.

You can, of course, visit all the sights in one day.

This will take you about a half-day depending on how much time you’d like to spend at each location and mode of travel.

You will likely be taking the London Underground or public bus, so we suggest you read our guide on using the London Underground and which Oyster Card to buy .

Chances are you will be spending some time in SoHo on your visit to London. You might find our post on  things to do in Soho  helpful.

It's a great neighborhood with lots of rock and roll history. So naturally, we make several of the below Beatles' locales during our  pay-what-you-wish   Rock N Roll London Tour .

Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club -  47 Frith Street, London W1D 4HT (map)

A legend on the London music scene, Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club sits in the heart of Soho.

It was Ronnie Scott who played the saxophone solo on the Beatles hit 'Lady Madonna.'

This is a stop on our pay-what-you-wish   Rock N Roll London Tour .

Bag O’Nails - 9 Kingley Street ( map )

Number 9 Kingley Street is a private member’s club known as The Bag O’Nails. Opened originally in 1965, this was a hot-spot for musicians to meet and play until the club closed its doors to the public in 1968.

Paul McCartney was a frequent visitor of The Bag O’Nails (he actually had his own private table!) and on the 15th of May in 1967 it was here that he met his future wife, Linda.

Also a stop on our pay-what-you-wish   Rock N Roll London Tour

MPL Communications - 1 Soho Square ( map )

MPL Communications is the name of Paul McCartney’s music publishing company. Their headquarters are here at Number 1 Soho Square.

Founded in 1970 by McCartney himself, MPL Communications not only manages work by Paul but also owns copyrights for dozens of artists, including huge names like Buddy Holly.

Former Blue Gardenia Club  -   20 St. Anne's Court ( map )

Tucked away in a small Soho alley is the location of the former Blue Gardenia Club.

Although no longer standing, legend has it that this is where the Beatles held their first-ever London performance.

According to the story, the concert was impromptu (their van driver that evening knew the club would still be open late into the night and might have an empty stage that needed filling), and not all four Beatles were present – George Harrison was at home with the flu!

If true, this would make it the first performance in London for the Fab Four, but it is said that they earned absolutely no money that evening - since in December of 1961 they were still completely unknown! 

Trident Recording Studios   - 17 St. Anne's Court ( map )

In this unassuming building sits recording studios where numerous hits were put down on vinyl.

The Beatles recorded various songs here including Hey Jude, Martha My Dear, Dear Prudence, Honey Pie, Savoy Truffle, I Want You (She’s so Heavy).

Separately, Ringo Starr, George Harrison, and Paul McCartney all recorded music here in their respective solo careers.

Read more about Trident Recording Studios .

The Prince of Wales Theatre - Coventry Street ( map )

At the 1963 Royal Variety Show – with both Elizabeth the Queen Mother and Princess Margaret in the audience – the Beatles performed a number of their recent hits.

But, more famous than the concert, was the introduction of their final number Twist and Shout by John Lennon, who took to the stage and announced, “For our last number, I’d like to ask your help.

For the people in the cheaper seats, clap your hands. And the rest of you, if you’d just rattle your jewelry.”

After giving a cheeky grin and a thumbs-up sign, cameras swiftly moved to the Queen Mother who, on her feet, was seen laughing and waving.

This gesture demonstrated the Beatles' ability to transcend politics, finance, and international barriers in their rise to the top of musical history. 

Today, you can see some of the best shows at The Prince of Wales Theatre , like The Book of Mormon!

The London Pavillion - 1 Piccadilly Circus ( map )

Today an entertainment venue, the London Pavilion saw the premieres of four of five Beatles films: A Hard Day’s Night, Help!, Yellow Submarine, and Let it Be .

Find out more about London's famous  Piccadilly Circus .

The London Palladium Theatre - 8 Argyll Street ( map ) 

In 1963, the Beatles gave a concert here that coined the term “Beatlemania.”

The theatre was packed with thousands of fans and it’s estimated that 15 million people tuned in to watch the performance.

The crowds quickly swarmed to the backstage door of the theatre, hoping to see the group as they left but the Beatles were one step ahead and left through the front!

NEMS Offices - 5-6 Argyll Street ( map )

Standing for North End Music Stores, the NEMS organization was run by Brian Epstein – sometimes referred to as the “fifth Beatle.”

Ironically, today the location is a Five Guys fast food restaurant!

Epstein was the Beatles’ manager and his headquarters here is where all of the behind-the-scenes work going into the success of the Beatles took place.

Notably, it was at this location that John Lennon, in an interview with the Evening Standard in 1966, commented that the Beatles were “bigger than Jesus.”

Dougie Millings & Son - 63 Old Compton Street ( map )

Millings & Son, master tailors, were known the world over as “The Beatles’ Tailor.” They no longer operate, instead, you will find a restaurant, Cafe Espana.

It was at this shop here in Old Compton Street that John Lennon asked the tailor for "something different".

What he got was one of the most distinctive items in the Beatles' wardrobe - the collarless suits the Beatles became known for.

The link between the tailor at the Fab Four was so strong that crowds would often gather outside, hoping to get a glimpse of the Beatles coming in to collect their clothes.

It is possible to spot Dougie Millings in A Hard Day’s Night where he has a small part, appropriately, as a frustrated tailor!  Read his obituary in the NY Times .

ST JOHN'S WOOD

Abbey road studios and crossing - 3 abbey road ( map ).

Abbey Road Studios, a recording venue that has seen some of the biggest names in music come through the doors.

The Beatles recorded nearly all of their albums and singles dating from 1962 to 1970 here.

For more information,  read our in-depth post on the crossing and the studio.   

During the time of The Beatles, the Studios were owned by EMI. Today it is a property of Universal Music.

The building itself is still used for recordings but it is also a protected building, holding English Heritage Grade II Listed status.

This means the building will now always be preserved from major alterations and changed in recognition of its’ musical historical impact.

Paul McCartney's Current London Home -  7 Cavendish Avenue ( map )

Since 1966 this lavish mansion has belonged to Paul McCartney. Owing to the proximity to the Abbey Road studios, the Beatles frequently used this house as a meeting place before and after recordings.

As he owns many properties over the world, he is not here all of the time, but it is not unusual to see him in the shops and pubs on the nearby St. John’s Wood high street.

After his divorce from Heather Mills, the paparazzi were camped outside of this house for weeks and occasionally one may find a Beatles fan or two camped outside the imposing brick walls.

Beatles Coffee Shop -  St. John’s Wood Station ( map )

Located at St. John’s Wood Underground Station is the Beatles Coffee shop, a great place to grab a drink or a small bite to eat.

The shop also boasts a variety of Beatles merchandise to pick up and bring back home for your fab-four-loving-friends.

Apple Records  - 3 Savile Row ( map ) 

This was the headquarters for the Beatles' record label. In the basement, part of the film Let it Be was shot.

But it is the rooftop that is practically a shrine to the Beatles. In January 1969, the Beatles gave their last live performance, memorialized on film ( watch here ).

The band played for 45 minutes until the police came and stopped the impromptu gig.

Before the police cleared them away, John Lennon said, “I hope we passed the audition.”  

Naturally, this near-sacred sight is a stop on our pay-what-you-wish   Rock N Roll London Tour .

One cannot imagine not stopping here to see one of the most significant places in rock history!

The Dorchester - 45 Park Lane ( map )

The Beatles celebrated the premieres of both A Hard Day’s Night and Help! here.

This posh hotel on London’s luxury Park Lane, the Dorchester can be visited by members of the public who wish to come in for afternoon tea, or a drink at the bar.

Mason’s Yard Art Gallery (where John Lennon met Yoko Ono)  - 6 Mason’s Yard ( map )

Formerly the site of the Indica Gallery, 6 Mason’s Yard was the location of an exhibition that began on the 9th of November in 1966 by Yoko Ono.

John Lennon had been told that the exhibition was worth visiting, and when he arrived at this location, he met his future wife!

(We stop here on our  pay-what-you-wish   Rock N Roll London Tour ).

John was reported, “expecting an orgy, you know…” but arrived instead to find a quiet room where Yoko was drifting around, rearranging objects as part of her art piece.

One of the pieces was a wooden board with a hammer and nails nearby – John asked if he could hammer in one of the nails and was told no by Yoko herself.

The gallery manager panicked that Ono may have offended John, convinced her to allow him to do it.

According to Lennon himself, Yoko said he could do it if he paid five shillings. His response? “Well, I’ll give you an imaginary five shillings and hammer an imaginary nail in.”

John stated that this was the moment he and Yoko really “met” changing the course of both their lives forever.

Marylebone Station - Location in  A Hard Day’s Night - Marylebone Rail Station ( map )

Fans of the Fab Four will recognize it as the setting for the opening scenes of A Hard Day’s Night .

It's here that they arrive in London to a mob of screaming girls and must run to escape the chaos!

If you want to truly walk in the footsteps of John, George, and Ringo, head to nearby Boston Place (along the right side of the Station).

This is the street the three are running down at the beginning of the film.

Former EMI Headquarters - 20 Manchester Square ( map )

From 1960 – 1995, 20 Manchester Square was the address of EMI, a multinational music recording, and publishing company.

This was the company that introduced the Beatles on an international level and also provided promotional materials of the group.

The stairwell which is featured on the cover of the Please Please Me album was located inside this building and photographs of the group taken inside the offices here were used in The Red Album and The Blue Album .

Inside the building, the Beatles received several awards from EMI owing to their record-breaking sales which means the doorways here have seen the footsteps of the Beatles dozens of times.

John and Yoko's Flat - 34 Montagu Square ( map )

The basement flat in 34 Montagu Square was occupied by Ringo Starr briefly in 1965 before he moved out and leased the flat to his friends – including Jimi Hendrix.

But, for Fab Four Fans, this flat is better known as the home of John Lennon and Yoko who lived here in 1968. 

It was in October of that year that the police raided the flat and John and Yoko were charged with possession of cannabis. Shortly thereafter, Ringo felt enough pressure to sell the flat. 

It’s also of note that Paul McCartney himself said that this flat at Montagu Square was where he wrote Eleanor Rigby.

Jane Asher's Home - 57 Wimpole St ( map )

In the early 1960s, Paul McCartney dated Jane Asher and lived with her for a time. 

In this house is where Paul and John wrote I Want to Hold Your Hand.

Marylebone Register Office - 97-113 Marylebone Rd ( map )

In this architecturally lovely building, Paul McCartney exchanged vows with Linda Eastman here on March 12, 1969, breaking millions of hearts in the process.

Forty years later, McCartney married his third wife, Nancy Shevell. Ringo Starr married his second wife Barbara Bach here in 1981. 

Other famous nuptials that took place here include Sean Bean and Georgina Sutcliffe, Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas, and Oasis' frontman Liam Gallagher to his first wife, Patsy Kensit in 1997 and then his second wife Nicole Appleton in 2008.

The Beatles Store  -   231-233 Baker Street ( map )

The absolute top-notch Beatles memorabilia store in London.

From regular trinkets like key chains, shot glasses and clothing to serious collector's items like rare records and out-of-print magazines – this shop has it all!

WESTMINSTER

Buckingham palace  ( map ).

An unexpected stop on a Beatles tour of London is Buckingham Palace! In June 1965, Queen Elizabeth II appointed all four members of the Beatles Members of the Orders of the British Empire (MBEs).

The Fab Four had been nominated by Prime Minister Harold Wilson and the ceremony took place inside the Palace, sparking a bit of controversy by those who felt that MBE recipients should be limited to civic leaders and military veterans.

Many MBE recipients actually returned their insignia in protest!

Hard Rock Café - 150 Old Park Lane ( map ) 

For Beatles fans, a visit to the Hard Rock Café doesn’t necessarily need to involve any food or drink!

Underneath the shop is a vault that contains musical memorabilia including John Lennon’s original handwritten lyrics for songs like ‘Imagine’ as well as a pair of his glasses.

Also of note is the gold record which was gifted to the group when their album Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band reached $1 million in the United States.

Tours of the vault are available!

Brian Epstein's Final Home - 24 Chapel St. ( map )

In January 1965, Brian Epstein moved into this house in the exclusive London neighbourhood of Belgravia.

It was here that the release party for Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band took place.

Sadly, it was also here that Brian Epstein died of a drug overdose on 27th August 1967.

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

Whaddon house  - william mews ( map ).

Here are the former residences of George, Ringo and Brian Epstein. In late 1963, Brian Epstein moved into the top floor apartment here.

Not long after, George Harrison and Ringo Starr shared an apartment on the second floor of the very same building and it was here that the Fab Four met before traveling to Buckingham Palace to receive their MBEs.

George and Ringo moved out in 1965 but the building remained famous owing to a legendary party hosted by Epstein in 1964.

Reportedly in August of that year, an event took place that was attended by all four Beatles as well as Judy Garland, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards.

See what it looks like today . You can rent an apartment for just...£5,417 a month!

SOMERS TOWN

The british library -  96 euston road ( map ).

When thinking of the Beatles, the British Library isn’t a naturally linked location. 

However, the British Library houses some exceptionally rare Beatles artifacts that are on display and that can be viewed.

This includes six manuscripts penned by John Lennon including lyric sheets in his own hand for In My Life, Strawberry Fields Forever and She Said She Said.

There is also a letter to Lennon’s friend, former Beatle Stuart Sutcliffe, and an original Beatles Fan Club membership card.

Best of all, this collection is FREE to enjoy!  Click here for more information .

GUIDED TOURS

If you would prefer a guided tour, you are in luck, as there are several walking and bus tours available for purchase.

Of course, you should check out our free Rock N Roll London Tour , which takes place on Thursdays and Saturdays at 15:00 (3 pm).  

You can also take this tour any time you wish with our GPS-led audio tour app . Here's a sample.

Central London Beatles Walking Tour

Every day at 1 pm, take a guided walking tour of central London Beatles sights. £15/adult, £10/child, £12/senior/student.

If you are considering purchasing a hop-on-hop-off bus tour ticket while in London, be aware that these tickets are included for free with the purchase of an Original Tour London bus ticket.

It's also included for free with the London Pass , a tourist attraction discount pass that includes free entry to dozens of London's most popular attractions.

London Rock Music Tour  

A 3.5-hour mini-coach tour that covers the history of rock music and visits SoHo, Camden Town all the way to Abbey Road.

Prices start at £46/adult, £29/child (ages 3-16). Select days at 13:00 (1 pm).

Let Mark (the taxi driver in the video at the top of this page) take you on a tour. Check out his Facebook page .

Richard Porter's Beatles Walks  

• Beatles 'In My Life' - 11 am every Tuesday and Saturday
• Magical Mystery Tour - 11 am every Thursday and Sunday and 2 pm every Wednesday
• Rock and Roll London - 2 pm every Friday

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