Former EMI House, Iconic Beatles Album Cover Site
Historic site of EMI Records’ headquarters and iconic Beatles album cover at 20 Manchester Square, a landmark of British music heritage.
Located at 20 Manchester Square in London, the Former EMI House was the headquarters of EMI Records and famously featured on the cover of The Beatles' 'With The Beatles' album. Though the original modernist building was demolished in 1995, its legacy endures as a landmark of British music history, immortalized in iconic Beatles photography that shaped pop culture.
A brief summary to Former EMI House (Beatles album cover photo)
- 20 Manchester Square, London, W1H 6EE, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit nearby Beatles-related sites such as Abbey Road Studios and the Beatles’ rooftop concert location for a fuller experience of their London history.
- Explore the Marylebone area to enjoy its blend of cultural heritage and elegant architecture surrounding the former EMI House site.
- Photography enthusiasts should capture the exterior of the current building and the surrounding square to contrast past and present.
- Combine your visit with a stop at Handel & Hendrix House nearby to experience another facet of London’s rich musical legacy.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central Line to Bond Street station, approximately 10-15 minutes walk from 20 Manchester Square. The station is well connected with frequent services, and walking involves navigating urban streets with some slight inclines. No entrance fee; Oyster or contactless payment accepted.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Manchester Square, including routes 113 and 189. Travel times vary from 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Buses are accessible and offer a scenic route through Marylebone. Standard London bus fare applies.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations takes about 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers direct access but can be affected by congestion charges and parking restrictions in Marylebone. Typical fare ranges from £8 to £15.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Marylebone or Oxford Street areas, walking to 20 Manchester Square takes 15-25 minutes over mostly flat urban terrain. This allows you to enjoy the local architecture and atmosphere en route.
Former EMI House (Beatles album cover photo) location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Former EMI House (Beatles album cover photo)
A Pillar of British Music History
The Former EMI House stood proudly at 20 Manchester Square as the headquarters of EMI Records, a powerhouse in the music industry. It gained worldwide recognition as the backdrop for the cover photo of The Beatles' 1963 album 'With The Beatles,' capturing the band in a stairwell that became emblematic of their early success. This building was more than an office; it was a creative hub where some of the most influential music of the 20th century was produced and promoted.The Beatles and the Iconic Stairwell
The stairwell inside EMI House was immortalized in two famous Beatles photo shoots, the first in February 1963 when the band was fresh from Liverpool. The photographs taken here were reused for later albums, including the 'Red' and 'Blue' greatest hits collections, symbolizing the band's enduring legacy. The same pose, camera angle, and even the photographer Angus McBean were revisited years later, underscoring the stairwell's significance in Beatles lore.The Building’s Architectural and Cultural Significance
Designed in a modernist style, the EMI House was a notable example of mid-20th-century architecture in London. Besides The Beatles, it served as a backdrop for other prominent artists like Pink Floyd and Diana Ross and the Supremes, making it a cultural landmark in the music world. Although the original structure was demolished in 1995 and replaced by a less distinctive office block, its place in music history remains firmly entrenched.Legacy Beyond The Beatles
EMI House was not only linked to The Beatles but also to other influential artists and moments in British pop culture. The Sex Pistols recreated the famous Beatles stairwell pose in the building’s glass atrium in 1977, bridging generations of British music. The building also hosted the Joe Loss Orchestra, a major big band act of the mid-20th century, illustrating EMI's broad musical influence.Manchester Square and Its Musical Heritage
Situated in the elegant Marylebone district, Manchester Square is steeped in artistic and cultural history. The Former EMI House contributed to this aura, attracting music lovers and historians alike. The area’s tranquil yet sophisticated atmosphere complements the building’s historical importance, making it a point of interest for those exploring London’s rich musical past.Continuing Influence and Commemoration
Though the physical building no longer exists, the Former EMI House continues to inspire Beatles fans and music historians worldwide. Its image and the stories associated with it are preserved in photographs, documentaries, and music history tours. This site remains a testament to the transformative power of music and the enduring legacy of The Beatles in London’s cultural landscape.For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
