Can You Visit The Set Of Eastenders

So, there I was, sitting on the tube, squished between a lady with a shopping bag full of cabbages and a gentleman who seemed to have a personal vendetta against deodorant. I looked up from my book, and there, staring back at me from the adverts, was the iconic Queen Vic. It got me thinking, "Hey, I've been watching EastEnders since before some of these kids were even born, can't I just pop by and see where it all happens?"

Well, my curious friend, the answer is a bit more complicated than a simple "yes" or "no". You see, the set of EastEnders, or the Albert Square as it's known in the show, is not actually in London at all. No, no, no. It's tucked away in a corner of Elstree Studios in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire. Quite the commute from the bustling streets of Walford, isn't it?

So, Can You Visit?

In a word, yes. But it's not as simple as just rocking up and asking for a tour. You see, the studios are a working environment, and they take their security pretty seriously. It's not like they want to risk the next big plot twist getting spoiled by some nosy parker like you or me.

But fear not, dear reader! There is a way. The BBC runs official tours of the studios, and yes, you can indeed see the set of EastEnders. But you've got to book in advance, and it's not cheap. We're talking around £50 for an adult ticket. But hey, think of it as an investment in your cultural education, yeah?

What to Expect

Now, I won't lie to you, it's not like they're going to let you wander around unsupervised, sipping a pint in the Vic or having a chinwag with Phil Mitchell. No, no, no. It's a guided tour, and you'll be with a group. But you will get to see the set, and you might even get a sneak peek at some upcoming storylines. Shh, don't tell anyone I told you that.

You'll also get to see other parts of the studios, like the props department, where they keep all the stuff that makes the show look so real. You know, like the fake blood and the broken hearts. Oh, and you might even get to see where they film some of the other shows that come out of the BBC. Who knows, you might spot a celebrity or two!

The Prince and The Duchess visit the set of EastEnders | The Royal Family

But What If I Just Want to Pop By?

Alright, alright, I get it. You're not the planning-ahead type. You like to live on the edge, spontaneous, free as a bird. Well, I've got some bad news for you. The studios don't just let people wander in off the street. They've got security, remember? And they're not there to make friends.

But, and this is a big but, if you happen to be in the area and you've got a bit of time on your hands, you could always try your luck. There's a pub near the studios called the Moon and Star. It's not the Queen Vic, but it's close enough. You never know, you might spot someone from the show having a pint. Just don't go asking for autographs, yeah? They're off duty, remember.

So, Is It Worth It?

Well, that depends on you, doesn't it? If you're a die-hard EastEnders fan, then yeah, it's probably worth every penny. If you're just a casual viewer, then maybe it's not worth the time or the money. But hey, it's not every day you get to see where your favourite soap opera is made, is it?

And who knows, maybe you'll learn a thing or two about the show. Maybe you'll finally understand why Phil Mitchell is always so grumpy. Or maybe you'll just have a nice day out. Either way, it's an experience, isn't it? And isn't that what life's all about?