Sherlock Holmes Tour in London, UK

Sherlock Holmes is the greatest mystery fiction character created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. He wrote his first Holmes story in 1886 and it was first published in the Beeton's Christmas Annual in 1887. It was published in book form by Ward Lock in 1888 but it wasn't until the character featured in a series of short stories which were published in the Strand Magazine that the detective really took off as it were.

The very first series published in the Strand Magazine was called The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and was a huge success. The success was a much need income boost to Doyle as both the public and publishers clamoured for more. Strangely enough Doyle decided kill off the character in 'The Final Problem'. This led to a public outcry and some people went as far as wearing black armbands in the streets. Publishing offers became more lucrative and with the public pressure, Doyle decided to bring back the character. The Hound of the Baskervilles was his next project and became one of the most famous crime fiction stories ever.

The subsequent years saw Doyle write on and off and it seems he was only ever motivated to write by the financial gain rather than any affection of the character. The character was based on one of Doyles old tutors Dr Joseph Bell who taught him during his time studying medicine between 1876 to 1880. Doyle was impressed with the Bells analytical mind and extraordinary observation skills and this led to Sherlock having these characteristics.

The final story was published in the Strand in 1927, at the time Doyle was struggling for inspiration and ideas. His final collection of stories was released in book form. The Case-Book of Sherlock Holmes told how he the detective went into retirement and keeping bees in Sussex.

Since the early 1900's many films have been made of this fictional detective. Recently Guy Richie directed his own interpretation with the actor Robert Downey JR playing the Holmes and Jude Laws as his partner Watson.

Serious fans of Sherlock Holmes will be pleased to know there is a tour in London based on this great detective. You get the chance to visit all of the locations where recent films were made. 221b Baker Street Museum is also part of the tour as is the building where Watson and Holmes met in 'A Study in Scarlet'. The 1815 building has been listed by the government to protect its cultural and architectural heritage and the interior has been meticulously maintained as described by Doyle.