Marvellous Things to Do in Marylebone
If you want to get to know one of the best areas to stay in Central London, we've got just the list you need.
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Despite being in the centre of London, Marylebone exudes a unique village feel that makes you feel right at home from the moment you start exploring it Georgian architecture and cobblestone streets. There are so many great things to explore in this part of town, meaning it can be difficult to know where to start. So that's why we here at Plum Guide have gathered all our favourite things to do in Marylebone for you to enjoy during your trip. So, without further ado, let's take a look at the list...
Snoop around The Sherlock Holmes Museum
If you’re a fan of the famed deerstalker-wearing detective, then a stop by 221B Baker Street is a must on your list of things to do in Marylebone. The literary home of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes, the place has been made into a museum dedicated to all things Sherlock. Inside you’ll find rooms recreated as Doctor John Watson and Sherlock’s bedrooms and the living room where the pair sat and worked on cases. You'll also find mannequins dressed as different characters from the Sherlock Homes universe like the infamous James Moriarty and Irene Adler. Other rooms display props with facts from the novels. And if that wasn't enough, check out the front of Baker Street station to see a marble statue of the great Sherlock Holmes himself too.
Take the kids to Madame Tussaud’s
If you're travelling with kids that have done their research into the best things to see and do in London, you won't be able to pass up a visit to this famous attraction on Marylebone Road, with its bright red painted walls and blue dome. The collection has over 300 somewhat bizarre-looking wax figures of celebrities, movie characters, historical icons and political figures so if you’ve ever wanted to get up close and personal with the likes of Benedict Cumberbatch, Angelina Jolie, or even Her Majesty the Queen, now’s (not really) your chance. We won't lie – this is not for everyone but if the kids really want to go, it could be something to laugh at over lunch or back at your charming Marylebone Maisonette.
Fall in love with The Wallace Collection
Across from Manchester Square is The Wallace Collection, an art gallery that was established in 1897. The 4th Marquess of Hertford, Richard Seymour-Conway, left his private art collection to his son, Richard Wallace, whose wife then donated it to England. The collection dances between being a museum and home where you'll discover a number of works from all over Europe. Some of the most famous pieces on display are by greats like Rembrandt, Diego Velázquez, Anthony van Dyck and François Boucher. The collection also has an impressive array of sculptures, ceramics, armour porcelain and French furniture to admire.
Explore Wigmore Hall
Head out from your wonderful Plum home and make your way over to Wigmore Hall. Originally known as Bechstein Hall when it was first built in the late 1800s, Wigmore Hall suffered as a result of the First World War. It was built by a German piano manufacturer, Carl Bechstein, and seized as enemy property during the war. It was then auctioned off and renamed. Today, it still holds up as an intimate concert venue that hosts different musicians and performers. They even broadcast weekly performances on BBC Radio 3’s lunchtime concert series.
Head to Cadenhead’s Whisky Shop and Tasting Room
The name speaks for itself – Cadenhead’s Whisky Shop and Tasting Room is exactly that. You can peruse the shelves and see all the different kinds of Scottish whiskies or you can head on to the Tasting Room to sample a piece of Scotland for yourself. There are different experiences available to book based on how much ground you’d like to cover during your session (and how much whisky you'd like to knock back).
Shop along Marylebone High Street
Unlike Oxford Street or Regent Street, Marylebone High Street is hidden away from the rest of London’s often overwhelming hustle and bustle. You’ll be able to enjoy perusing different boutiques, bookshops and concept stores without ever feeling rushed or surrounded by crowds. One unmissable place to pop into is Daunt Books. Once you step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve been suddenly transported to an elegant and beautiful library, the likes of which you would find at prestigious universities. The interior boasts shelves and railings made from oak wood, a conservatory ceiling, a stained glass window, and green walls. The seemingly never-ending rows of books range in genre from travel to politics to fiction. Make sure to ask the shopkeeper for their expert recommendations for your next read. After you've shopped until you dropped, head back to your Plum home for a drink on the balcony before dinner this evening. All of the award-winning homes on our site – from plush London penthouses to quirky houseboats on the Thames – have been meticulously vetted by our home critics to guarantee only the highest of standards for you.
Daunt Books, Marylebone, London
Enjoy a dazzling dinner at Chiltern Firehouse
If you’re hankering for a more ritzy atmosphere, then try Chiltern Firehouse. Food here focuses on contemporary European dishes with a hint of American design. Reservations are hard to come by, especially for the evening, so be sure to try for earlier in the day. Chiltern is pricey, but 100% worth the experience.
Have a pint at The Masons Arms
On the corner of Devonshire and Hallman Street is The Masons Arms. You can’t miss it - outside, all of the building’s windows are decorated with flowers and on inside are red leather seats and wooden paneling. You’ll find all the classic British foods here as well as some modern Thai dishes thrown into the mix. A traditional English pub through and through, there’s plenty of drink options to choose from. Take a break from exploring London here with a pint of Britain’s finest or some wine and kick back after a long day out.
Enjoyed this list of our favourite things to do in Marylebone and want to keep reading? Take a look at our springtime guides to the city next, like the best things to do in London in March or what do do during April in London.