The Beatles are making a triumphant return to London’s Savile Row, having repurchased the site of their legendary rooftop performance. The iconic venue will be transformed into a vast exhibition space dedicated to the band, offering fans an immersive experience.
Historic Purchase and Plans
Apple Corps Ltd., which manages The Beatles’ creative and business interests, has acquired their former headquarters at 3 Savile Row. The building will be converted into the first official Beatles destination, spanning seven floors. Highlights include a recreated recording studio in the basement where the Let It Be album was made, and the opportunity for fans to step onto the famous rooftop where the band performed on January 30, 1969.
Paul McCartney expressed his excitement, stating, “It was such a trip to get back to 3 Savile Row recently and have a look around. There are so many special memories within the walls, not to mention the rooftop. The team have put together some really impressive plans and I’m excited for people to see it when it’s ready.” Ringo Starr added, “Wow, it’s like coming home.”
Exhibition Details
Set to launch in 2027, The Beatles at 3 Savile Row will feature seven floors of never-before-seen material from Apple Corps’ extensive archives. Rotating exhibitions, a fan store, and the recreation of the original studio where Let It Be was recorded will be included. Fans will also be able to relive the iconic rooftop concert, immortalised in Peter Jackson’s Get Back, on the exact spot where it happened.
Apple Corps CEO Tom Greene commented, “We’re thrilled to bring Apple Corps back to its spiritual home and give The Beatles fans something truly special. Every single day, fans are taking pictures of the outside of 3 Savile Row – but next year they can go in and explore all seven floors of the iconic building, including the rooftop where even the railings remain the same from that famous day in 1969.”
Historical Context
The Beatles originally purchased 3 Savile Row on June 22, 1968, for £500,000. They moved in on July 15, and the basement recording studio saw much of the Let It Be album created. The rooftop performance on January 30, 1969, became a legendary moment in music history. The band spent the next 18 months there before Apple sold the building in October 1976. Today’s announcement marks a full-circle moment for Apple Corps, which has overseen The Beatles’ interests since 1968.
Impact on Tourism
The new exhibition is expected to boost London tourism. Mayor Sadiq Khan said, “The Beatles on the roof of 3 Savile Row is one of the most iconic moments in music history. So, it’s hugely exciting that this famous landmark will be opened up for everyone to enjoy the story of the Beatles. It will celebrate one of the most influential bands of all time and will captivate Londoners and visitors from across the globe.”
Tom Kiehl, Chief Executive of UK Music, added, “This incredible fan experience marks a truly special moment not just for Beatles lovers but for the entire UK music industry. The Beatles' timeless music and pioneering spirit changed the world, inspiring generations of artists and bringing millions of music fans from across the globe to the UK every year. Music tourism is a major source of soft power for the UK, attracting 23.5 million music tourists in 2024 who spent £10 billion coming to gigs and festivals. 3 Savile Row is one of the most iconic and important locations in both The Beatles' and Britain's musical legacy, and this unique experience will cement the UK music industry's world-leading status.”
Upcoming Films
Four Beatles films are also in production, directed by Sam Mendes and due for release in 2028. The cast includes Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison.
Further details about The Beatles at 3 Savile Row and a second experience in development will be announced later. Fans can register for updates at www.thebeatles.com/3SavileRow.
