Day-Tour of the Midsomer Murders Locations
A Perfect Blend of TV Charm and English Countryside
If you’re a fan of the long-running TV series Midsomer Murders or simply love exploring picturesque villages, this day-trip from London offers a delightful glimpse into the fictional county of Midsomer. Priced at around $114.49 per person and lasting approximately 9 hours, the tour takes you through the charming towns and villages across Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and beyond — many of which have served as the backdrop for more than 250 suspicious deaths on screen.
What we particularly enjoy about this experience is how it marries authentic rural England with the nostalgia of your favorite detective stories. The guide’s insights are packed with fascinating details about the series and local history, making the adventure both entertaining and educational. Another highlight is visiting Henley upon-Thames, a town that’s not only featured in many episodes but also offers a lovely short walking tour, perfect for soaking in the quintessential English scene.
A potential consideration is the group size; since it’s a guided tour, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a structured experience. Also, since food and drink aren’t included, you might want to plan for a picnic or stop at a local pub for lunch during the day.
This tour is ideal for TV buffs, countryside lovers, and history enthusiasts looking for a well-organized, immersive day exploring the real-world locations that brought Midsomer to life on screen.
Key Points
- Authentic Locations: Visit over 20 filming sites used in the series, offering a genuine behind-the-scenes feel.
- Stunning Villages: Explore fairytale houses, ancient churches, cozy pubs, and quaint stores.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with stories and historical context.
- Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a mini-coach, making it easy to cover multiple sites in a day.
- Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.
- Great for Fans: Perfect for lovers of Midsomer Murders and those interested in classic English scenery.
A Detailed Look at the Midsomer Murders Tour
Setting the Scene
We start from Holland Park tube station in London, where our guide greets us outside Starbucks. From there, it’s about a 9-hour journey into the world of Midsomer — a fictional county with a surprisingly real set of locations across Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. The tour is designed to bring the show’s iconic scenery to life, giving fans a chance to walk in the footsteps of DCI Barnaby and his team while enjoying the charming, often slightly eerie, villages that make the series so special.
Transportation and Comfort
Traveling in a mini-coach, the group is small enough for personal interaction but large enough to feel lively. The vehicle’s size makes it possible to navigate narrow country lanes and reach locations that larger coaches might avoid. Reviews note that the driver, Moe or Steve depending on the day, manages challenging terrain with skill, which is a relief if you’re prone to travel jitters or just appreciate smooth driving.
The Villages and Locations
The tour’s heart is visiting over 20 filming sites. These include fairytale houses, ancient churches, cozy pubs, and village greens that appear in multiple episodes. Many travelers mention how these sites look even lovelier in person — often more picturesque than they seem on screen. Our guide shares stories about how certain buildings or streets have been used in various episodes. For example, a quaint village store or grand house might look idyllic but has played a role in darker storylines.
Since reviews say that the guide’s stories add tremendous value, expect a mix of behind-the-scenes tidbits and local historical insights. One reviewer praised Rob for his storytelling, which made the day even more engaging. You’ll love the way the guide weaves in series trivia with local lore, making each stop more memorable.
Henley upon Thames
A highlight is the stop in Henley, a town often featured in the series. You’ll have a chance to walk around, enjoy the beautiful river views, and perhaps pop into a pub for a proper British lunch. Many reviews mention how the short walking tour here feels relaxed and authentic, giving you a break from the coach while soaking in the local atmosphere.
What’s Not Included
While the tour covers transportation and a knowledgeable guide, food and drink are not included. This means you might want to bring a packed lunch or plan to eat at a pub during the break. A flexible approach here allows you to pick your favorite spot and enjoy some local flavors.
The Experience and Value
Feedback highlights that many find this tour excellent value for money — especially when you consider the amount of filming locations visited and the quality of storytelling. One reviewer even mentions that the scenery and villages visited were more interesting than they expected, and the comfortable coach made all the difference.
Weather and Flexibility
Because the tour runs rain or shine, be prepared for whatever the weather. A few reviews note that rain didn’t spoil the experience, thanks to the well-paced itinerary. The ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance offers some flexibility if plans need adjusting.
Planning more time in London? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Why This Tour Works Well
This tour truly appeals to those with a passion for TV series and a love of quaint English villages. The combination of filming locations, local history, and scenic beauty makes it a well-rounded experience. If you’ve watched numerous episodes and want to see the real-world locations that create the show’s atmospheric backdrop, this is a perfect choice.
It also suits travelers who prefer a guided, organized day rather than trying to piece together locations on your own. The small group setting encourages conversation and makes the experience more intimate.
Who Will Love This Tour?
Travelers who want to relive their favorite Midsomer episodes in real life will find it especially rewarding. Fans looking for an authentic countryside experience with plenty of photo opportunities and engaging stories will also be delighted. It’s a good fit for those who appreciate English village charm but don’t want to spend days traveling independently.
If you’re a TV series enthusiast, a history buff, or simply enjoy scenic drives through the English countryside, you’ll leave with a handful of memorable moments and stories to tell.
Final Thoughts
This Day-Tour of the Midsomer Murders Locations offers a fantastic way to explore the beautiful villages that have become iconic through decades of television. The guides’ knowledge, combined with the stunning scenery and relevant filming sites, makes it an engaging experience for both super fans and curious travelers alike.
The value for money is clear, considering the number of locations visited and the overall quality of the day. If you want a relaxed, informative, and visually delightful trip that combines storytelling with scenic exploration, this tour is a good pick. Just remember to bring a jacket or raincoat — British weather is unpredictable, after all.
More Great Tours NearbyFAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel time and stops, making it a full but manageable day trip from London.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Holland Park tube station outside Starbucks and returns there at the end of the day.
Is food included?
No, food and drink are not included, so plan to bring a packed lunch or buy something during the stop in Henley.
What language is the tour in?
The tour is conducted in English, with live guides providing insights and commentary.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for anyone interested in the series or the English countryside, though very young children might find the long day a bit tiring.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund — giving you some flexibility for your trip planning.
What makes this tour stand out?
The authentic filming locations, expert storytelling, and the chance to walk through beautiful villages make this a memorable experience for TV fans and countryside lovers alike.
- Tour for Muggles The Ultimate Harry Potter Walking Tour in London
- Stonehenge and Bath Day Trip from London with Optional Roman Baths Visit
- Chelsea FC Stadium Tours and Museum
- Up at The O2: Daytime Climb with Guided Tour with Panoramic Views
- London Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
- Ghost, Ghouls and Gallows Tour : Guided Tour with Boat Ride
More Tours in London
More Tour Reviews in London
More London experiences we've covered
- London: Haunted Hampstead Guided Walking Tour
- Day-Tour of the Midsomer Murders Locations
- London: Jack the Ripper Evening Walking Tour
- London: Private Taxi 50+ Sights Tour & Tower of London
- From London: Bicester Village Shopping Day Trip
- Law in London Private Tour
- London: 4.5-Hour Private Car Tour Hotel Pick-Up & Drop-Off
- London: Private Walking Sightseeing Tour
- London Olympic Helicopter Tour 45 minutes
- London: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath Day Trip
- From London: Winnie-the-Pooh’s Hundred Acre Wood Day Tour
- London Street Markets: 3-Hour Private Guided Tour