Baker Street to Marble Arch

This walk explores a fascinating stretch of central London from Baker Street to Marble Arch, uncovering surprising stories, hidden history and unexpected connections. Along the way we encounter the world of Sherlock Holmes, visit places linked to The Beatles and John Lennon, and discover the quiet back streets where remarkable events unfolded. The area around Baker Street and Marylebone is full of secrets. From the boating lake in Regent’s Park where scenes from Brief Encounter were filmed, to the underground river Tyburn which still flows beneath the streets. We also explore the daring wartime exploits of the Special Operations Executive, whose agents trained nearby before carrying out the famous sabotage mission depicted in The Heroes of Telemark. There are darker stories too, including links to Jack the Ripper mythology and the mysterious death of cab driver John Netley. We visit sites connected with the Cato Street Conspiracy, one of Britain’s most dramatic revolutionary plots, and discover the curious history behind Bryanston Square, the Portman Estate and the development of Marylebone. Along the route we also encounter rock stars, scandals and famous residents. From Jimi Hendrix and Madonna to the notorious Profumo affair involving Christine Keeler and Mandy Rice-Davies. There are churches built to celebrate victory over Napoleon, almshouses for the poor, Victorian pharmacies, and surprising modern connections such as the Sylvia Young Theatre School and the vibrant cultural life of Marble Arch. This is a part of London many people pass through without realising how much history surrounds them. Join me for a walk through hidden streets, forgotten stories and the remarkable secrets of Baker Street and Marble Arch.