Earls Court Police Box
The basics
In the long-running, cult-classic TV show Doctor Who, a police box doubles as the TARDIS (Time And Relative Dimension in Space), a wacky time machine and spacecraft. In real life, the small, distinctive blue boxes were installed all over London beginning in the 1920s, and were used as a way for officers to monitor the streets, to communicate information about crimes in progress, and to hold suspected perpetrators. Today, the once-mighty police box has virtually disappeared from London streets, though Doctor Who fans help keep the tradition alive.
The Earl’s Court Police Box features on numerous Doctor Who-themed London itineraries, as well as tours that focus on London filming locations and cult TV history.
Things to know before you go
- The Earl's Court Police Box is modelled on the early 20th century design first created by architect Gilbert MacKenzie Trench.
- The Police Box was renovated in 2005, the same year that Doctor Who relaunched.
- While police boxes were once outfitted with phones that connected to local police stations, the Earl's Court Police Box no longer has that functionality.
How to get there
The Earl's Court Police Box is located directly across from the entrance to Earl’s Court station. To reach the station, take the District or Piccadilly lines. The area is also served by numerous bus lines, including the 74, 190, 328, 430, C1, and C3, and can be reached on foot, by car, and by bike.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The Earl's Court Police Box is a public landmark, and as such is open 24/7. However, it’s best to visit during daytime hours, in order to capture photos of (and with) the landmark.
Other Doctor Who Landmarks
Given that Doctor Who has been on the air since 1963, it’s no surprise that it has been filmed all over London. Many of London’s top landmarks double as filming locations, from St. Paul’s Cathedral and Trafalgar Square to Canary Wharf and Westminster Bridge. Embark on a Doctor Who tour to learn more behind-the-scenes stories about the show.