Olympic Studios Tour

Step inside one of Britain’s most legendary recording spaces with a 60-minute guided tour of Olympic Studios in Barnes.

Departing promptly at 10:30am, this small-group experience (maximum 12 guests) offers a rare opportunity to explore the history, impact and enduring legacy of a studio that helped shape modern music. From the explosive energy of the 1960s through to the present day, Olympic Studios has been at the heart of countless landmark recordings that defined generations.

Your expert guide will take you on a carefully curated journey through the evolution of the studios — from their early days as a pioneering recording facility to their transformation into the cultural destination they are today. Along the way, you’ll hear the stories behind the sessions: the creative breakthroughs, the technical innovations, and the moments of chaos and brilliance that only ever happen inside a working studio.

This is not a museum. It is a living, breathing venue. As such, the tour offers a respectful, behind-the-scenes insight into the spaces where iconic albums were crafted. You’ll discover how artists and producers pushed boundaries here, how studio technology evolved over the decades, and why Olympic became synonymous with experimentation, quality and ambition.

Through expert storytelling, you’ll be transported back to eras when tape machines rolled late into the night, when producers demanded perfection, and when bands created records that still resonate around the world today. Archival imagery and carefully selected anecdotes bring the atmosphere vividly to life.

With a maximum of just 12 guests, the tour maintains an intimate and engaging feel. There’s space for questions, discussion and reflection — ideal for music lovers, history enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

The experience concludes around 11:30am, finishing in the heart of the venue, perfectly timed to continue your visit with coffee, brunch or further exploration.

Whether you’re passionate about recording history or simply intrigued by the stories behind some of Britain’s most influential music, this guided tour of Olympic Studios offers a compelling and immersive glimpse into a place where creativity truly made history.

What’s Included

• Knowledgeable, approachable & fun guide

What’s Excluded

• Food & drink
• Gratuities
• British Sign Language interpreter not included

What To Bring

• Consider layers of clothing
• Camera
• Comfortable shoes for a leisurely walking tour

Good To Know

• English language tour
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
• This guided tour is not accessible for wheelchair users or for parents with prams or buggies
• Adults who are 18 years and older must accompany anyone who is 17 years or younger on all tours

How long is the route?

• The tour includes steps and uneven surfaces

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

• The tour is not suitable for a wheelchair due to the uneven surfaces on the route. British Sign Language is not provided on the tour.

Do children need to be accompanied?

• All people under 18 (i.e. 17 years old and younger) must be accompanied by an adult (aged 18 years or over) on all tours

Is the tour suitable for children?

• Yes with parental guidance