Secret Access to the Former BBC Television Centre in London
Secret Access to the Former BBC Television Centre in London
The former BBC Television Centre in London is a hidden gem with a rich history that few seem to know about. While much of the property has been transformed into residential units, visitors can still gain access to this iconic site, thanks to some interesting and unconventional methods.
Historical Significance and Current Use
The BBC Television Centre at Shepherds Bush provided a home to hundreds of television programmes and staff between the 1960s and 2013. Renowned for its unique architecture and historical significance, the facility has since been repurposed into a mixture of residential and commercial developments. Today, it continues to serve as a hub for various productions and events, hosting numerous live audiences and broadcasts.
Accessing the Hidden Tours
While the public generally cannot walk around the entire building as it is predominantly occupied by residents and businesses, there are still ways to explore its secrets:
Option 1: Dress Code Tour
One of the more peculiar and effective ways to gain access is by dressing like a pre-pubescent child. This unique method allows you to participate in a full tour of the dressing rooms, which are often off-limits to adults.
Option 2: The Broom Cupboard Window
Located behind the studios, there is a small frosted window in the janitorial section. It is said that if you can open this window without being detected by staff such as Maggie Philbin and Noel Edmonds, you are granted entry to the area where Philip Schofield and Gordon the Gopher (a fictional character created for the TV shows) supposedly lived. The window is often referred to as “shoogiley” due to its unique rattle. By gently shaking the lock, you might manage to open the window, providing a rare glimpse into the past.
Option 3: Official Contact and Engagement
A more conventional approach involves reaching out to BBC Studioworks, the current operators of three studios in the complex. Contacting them directly might result in an official guided tour. If this option fails, you may still have a chance to attend audiences for some of the productions filmed in the building, allowing you to experience the space and its historical significance from the inside.
Residential and Commercial Availability
A substantial portion of the former BBC Television Centre has been converted into residential properties. This makes it possible to buy, rent, or even visit a friend's home there. Exploring these flats can give you a sense of the layout and original features of the building, providing insights into its past and present.
Conclusion
The former BBC Television Centre in London remains a fascinating destination for those with a keen interest in its history and unique architecture. Whether you choose to explore through unconventional means or official channels, you can be sure to uncover stories and memories that have been preserved over the years.