IT’S got to be one of the most beautiful immersive theatre spots in London – and if you’re an armchair sleuth this is perfect for you.
You’re immediately transported to Sherlock Holmes’ London address 221B Baker Street even before you step foot in this charming venue.
The immersive experience first begins when you receive a special invitation from Dr Watson, as he summons “press, constabulary, parliamentary” guests to a extraordinary press conference in 1889.
The unflappable actors and live music bring Holmes’ darkest case – The Hound Of The Baskervilles – to life around you.
You join detective Holmes as he investigates the recent death of the latest Lord, and threats made to the next Baskerville heir.
When Sir Charles Baskerville is found dead on the Devon moorland with the footprints of a giant hound close by, locals believe it is linked to a family curse.
But in true Holmes fashion, he is not a man for superstition and sets about to disprove any supernatural beliefs.
The special effects and sound system during the 3hr 30min show will have you on tenterhooks.
Expect theatrical fog on the Devon moorlands, mysterious blackouts and the eerie howls of a murderous phantom hound.
The immensely talented actors created something magnificent with a small stage and very few props.
They threw themselves around every inch of the venue to ensure that guests felt apart of the show.
While you sip of delicious cocktails and glasses of bubbly from the 221B Liquor Cabinet, the starters arrived with a Victorian-themed twist.
We indulged in the first of three exquisite dishes curated by British chef Ashley Clarke.
If you like traditional British cuisine with a difference then the house-cured Gressingham duck ham, confit egg yolk bearnaise, ham crisps, pickled cherries, toasted brioche, lemon & honey dressing if right up your street.
While the vegetarian arancini with fire-roasted tomato, green olive “catsup”, fresh tomato, asparagus & piquillo pepper ratatouille is equally mouthwatering and will wet your appetite.
The show kicked off with the first scene as it retold the classic horror story following the discovery of a dead body.
Holmes is pitted against the curse of the hound, but uses his own logical and scientific beliefs to find clues and answers.
It’s dramatic from the word go, intertwined with witty humour and brilliant storytelling.
Holmes is joined by devoted friend and physician Dr Watson and Baskerville heiress Lady Henry, who all play a fundamental role.
The trio are tasked with uncovering the spooky goings on, along with a small cast of other actors.
You’ll see Holmes’ ability to draw large conclusions from the smallest of observations from the comfort of your seat.
Th authentic Victorian atmosphere transports guests back in time.
You’re able to lose yourself in Crime-soaked London and desolate Devonshire as the scenes move location.
The haunting novel entertained readers when it was first published in 1902, and it has continued to thrill viewers over the last 100 years.
From Benedict Cumberbatch to Henry Cavill and Ian McKellen, famous faces have played the popular fictional detective in TV and theatre adaptions.
But this incredible production, really puts your imagination to work.
As you’re detective-brain gets to work, we were served a delicious main course to help fuel our crime-solving skills.
I enjoyed Spring chicken, black truffle mousse, Pommes Anna, spring pea tart, chicken scratchings, thyme jus.
Or opt for a plate of handmade fresh tortellini filled with burrata & black truffle, smoked garlic crema, garden pea pesto, toasted pine nuts.
The food is top-notch, with plenty of flavour that enhances the story.
The second scene then returned with more secrets to unravel.
New suspects emerged with modern twists but with all the classic elements that Sherlock fans will love.
To complete the fine dining three-course meal experience, dessert was calling my name.
And they pulled out all the stops with their Devonshire strawberries, vanilla mousse, black sesame, oat crumble and Champagne sorbet.
Happily full and ready for the final scene, Holmes was on a mission to ensure Sir Charles’ heir did not face an equally gruesome end.
With a number of twists and turns that kept me guessing until the last minute, the show was wrapped up with a killer surprise.
This is not just a theater show but an experience, with an exceptional three-course meal that beautifully helps tell the story.
The suspense begins the minute you enter until you leave.
Through a fusion of theatre, music, art, and food, it comes alive.
And if want to get into character, you’re encouraged to don your finest Victorian garments.
It’s perfect for an evening or daytime outing with family and friends or a special date night.
A night of murder, depravity, and fine gastronomy – what’s not to love?
It really is London’s hottest immersive experience and I can’t wait for the next one.
You can book tickets HERE.
The Great Murder Mystery Sherlock Holmes Experience
★★★★
The Lost Estate, 9 Beaumont Avenue
