To say that geek culture is everywhere these days would be an understatement. With cutting-edge tech, superhero movies, video games and other purportedly geeky hobbies achieving mainstream popularity, there’s little wonder as to why so many popular travel destinations have begun catering to geeks of all stripes. Globe-trotting geeks who will soon be charting a course for London are likely to find an abundance of attractions and locales that correlate with their foremost interests. So, if a jaunt to London is in your future, don’t pass up the chance to nerd out at the following locations.
Forbidden Planet
No geek can visit London without making a stop at Forbidden Planet. The city’s foremost destination for all things geeky, this store features an extensive assortment of graphic novels, tabletop gaming supplies, video games merchandise and collectibles. Given the store’s immense scope, it’s easy for any geek to lose themselves and spend hours browsing.
The Sherlock Holmes Museum
To call Sherlock Holmes a popular character would be an understatement. For over a century, Mr. Holmes has delighted audiences with intricate mysteries, engaging stories and a seemingly endless array of content. Since the character exists in the public domain, countless adaptations have sprung up over the years, and there’s almost always a new Sherlock project in the pipeline.
Whether you’re a diehard mystery buff or simply a casual fan of Mr. Holmes, you won’t want to go home without visiting the Sherlock Holmes Museum. As the name suggests, this museum is dedicated to all things Sherlock. Located in the real-life house 221B on Baker Street, the Sherlock Holmes Museum provides guests with guided tours of the famous detective’s iconic residence. Although unlimited photos are allowed, make a point of keeping your hands off the props.
The Hunterian Museum
Science geeks and travelers with an appreciation for all things weird will want to pay a visit to the Hunterian Museum. Packed to the brim with unique anatomical specimens, this museum is guaranteed to satisfy any visitor’s craving for strangeness. From dinosaurs to sea creatures to humans, the Hunterian Museum features a one-of-a-kind collection of anatomical specimens you won’t find anywhere else.
Harry Potter Studios Tour
As one of the world’s most popular media franchises, Harry Potter has amassed quite the following. From small children to adults, millions of fans have followed the boy wizard’s exciting adventures for over two decades. Among the franchise’s most notable contributions is its film series, which spans 10 years and eight films. Fans looking to experience the magic of these movies firsthand are encouraged to embark on the Harry Potter Studios tour offered by Warner Brothers. This tour provides visitors with an intricate behind-the-scenes look at the production of the Harry Potter films and enables them to view iconic props and sets up-close. Harry Potter fans can also pick gifts and souvenirs at one of the Harry Potter shops in London.
London Boutique Hotels
Travelers on the hunt for unique accommodations would be wise to book a stay at a London boutique hotel. Featuring eye-catching architecture, amazing atmosphere and personalized service, boutique hotels represent a substantial upgrade from standard lodgings.
The TARDIS
For nearly 60 years, Dr. Who has captured the imaginations of audiences in the U.K. and abroad. While considered a cultural staple in its native country, the decades-spanning science fiction series about a time-traveling extraterrestrial being has achieved cult popularity in the U.S. and other nations. As any fan knows, the Doctor is able to traverse time and space with the TARDIS, an advanced time machine that takes on the appearance of a run-of-the-mill police box.
Anyone interested in seeing the TARDIS in person can easily do so when visiting London. The actual TARDIS can be found outside of Earl’s Court underground station, and since there’s no admission fee, snapping a pic with the Doctor’s iconic machine is an absolute must for budget-conscious geeks.
In recent years, geek culture has become more prominent than ever. Nowhere is this more apparent than major population centers like London. No matter what facet of geekdom you’re interested in, you should have no trouble finding ways to indulge your inner nerd when visiting England’s premiere city. Whether you’re eager to explore the magical world of Harry Potter, read comics until your eyes go buggy or visit one of the world’s most famous book markets, a trip to London should be right up your alley.
