3 Savile Row: The Beatles' Legendary Apple Corps Headquarters
Historic Georgian townhouse in London, famed as The Beatles’ Apple Corps HQ and site of their legendary 1969 rooftop concert.
A Historic London Landmark with Georgian Elegance
3 Savile Row is a distinguished Georgian townhouse situated in the heart of London's West End, within the renowned Savile Row street famed for bespoke tailoring since the 18th century. Constructed in the early 18th century, the building is a Grade II* listed property, preserving its architectural heritage and classic façade. Its stately design reflects the refined character of the area, which has long attracted influential figures in British history and culture.The Beatles’ Creative Epicenter
In June 1968, The Beatles purchased 3 Savile Row for £500,000, establishing it as the headquarters of their multimedia company, Apple Corps. This marked the first time the band had an entire building dedicated solely to their enterprise. Each Beatle had a personal office within the townhouse, fostering a hub of creativity and collaboration. The basement housed a recording studio where significant sessions for the Let It Be album took place, embedding the building deeply in music history.The Iconic Rooftop Concert
On January 30, 1969, 3 Savile Row became the stage for The Beatles’ final live performance, famously known as the rooftop concert. Performed atop the building, this surprise gig was witnessed by passersby and nearby workers, creating an unforgettable moment captured in the Let It Be film. The event symbolized the end of an era for the band and remains one of the most celebrated live performances in rock history.A Hub for Peace and Innovation
Beyond music, 3 Savile Row was a center for activism and business ventures. John Lennon and Yoko Ono used the space to launch early peace campaigns under Bag Productions. The building also accommodated key figures in The Beatles' inner circle, including managers and assistants, making it a vibrant workplace that extended the band’s influence beyond music into cultural and social realms.Legacy and Preservation
Though Apple Corps sold 3 Savile Row in 1976, the building’s legacy endures. A blue plaque commemorates its significance, and it continues to attract Beatles fans and historians alike. The preservation of its Georgian architecture alongside its musical heritage makes it a unique cultural landmark in London, symbolizing the fusion of historic elegance with 20th-century pop culture revolution.Continuing Influence in Savile Row’s Storied Context
Nestled in a street famed for bespoke tailoring and British craftsmanship, 3 Savile Row stands as a testament to the diverse cultural history of the area. From tailoring to music innovation, the building reflects the layered narrative of London’s West End and remains an evocative site for those interested in British heritage and the global impact of The Beatles.Local tips
- Visit nearby Savile Row to explore the world-renowned bespoke tailoring shops that define the street’s historic character.
- Look for the blue plaque on the building commemorating The Beatles’ final live performance on the rooftop.
- Though the building is privately owned, the exterior and surrounding area offer excellent photo opportunities steeped in musical history.
A brief summary to 3 Savile Row
- 3 Savile Row, London, W1S 3PB, GB
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the London Underground to Green Park station, served by the Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines. From there, it is a 10-15 minute walk through central Mayfair to 3 Savile Row. The station is well connected with frequent services; a single journey costs approximately £2.50–£4.90 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve the area around Savile Row, including routes 6, 9, 14, and 19. Bus stops nearby provide easy access with travel times varying from 20 to 40 minutes depending on starting point. Buses accept contactless payment or Oyster cards, with fares around £1.75 per journey.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Licensed London black cabs and ride-hailing services like Uber can take you directly to 3 Savile Row. Travel times vary by traffic but typically range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Expect fares from £10 to £25 depending on distance and time of day.
