On the Trail of Sherlock Holmes

Take yourself on a tour of sites from Sherlock’s adventures in London and the UK with this comprehensive guide.

You may have been introduced to the magic of the greatest of English detectives by reading the books by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle or perhaps watching some of the hundreds of films or TV shows that feature the extraordinary adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John H. Watson—now, this unique book offers a detailed itinerary for actually ‘walking’ Sherlock Holmes. Beginning, of course, at Baker Street a series of walks takes in the well-known, as well as some of the more obscure, locations of London as traveled by Holmes and Watson and a gallery of unforgettable characters in the stories. Details of each location and the story in which it features are given along with other items of interest—associated literary and historical information, social history, and events in Conan Doyle’s life. A chapter then explores Holmes’ adventures in the rest of the UK. Fifty-five black and white original photographs accompany the text.

This book is designed to appeal to anyone who wishes to gain a deeper understanding of the stories by traveling, even if just in imagination from an armchair, exactly the same London streets as Sherlock Holmes, and perhaps also by exploring some iconic Holmesian locations farther afield. “Come, Watson, come!” Holmes says in The Adventure of the Abbey Grange. “The game is afoot. Not a word! Into your clothes and come!”

Praise for On the Trail of Sherlock Holmes

“Though it’s perfect for Holmes fans, this is an enjoyable guide even for those with only a passing interest in the character.” —Foreword Reviews

“Holmes fans of course will be eager to try these walks, which are presented with maps and instructions. The merely Holmes-curious will also find much to love in them, as each walk wanders through the heart of London at its most familiar literary era, a post-Dickens world of street urchins, timeless pubs and Victorian curiosities.” —The New York Times

“What a unique book! A list of walking routes designed to educate and entertain the walker on aspects of Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes. But the education doesn’t stop there. Included in this brilliant Holmes resource are a mini biography of Conan Doyle, detailed history of the places on the routes, details of books, movies and TV shows on Holmes, and photos of the establishment on the routes. At the back is a comprehensive list of every actor who ever portrayed Holmes and Watson. Browning has certain done his research. I cannot imagine any sherlock Holmes fan ever wanting more! Recommended.” —For the Love of Books