Play Episode

When a flame-haired pawnbroker named Jabez Wilson seeks Sherlock Holmes's help, the great detective finds himself drawn into one of his most peculiar cases yet.

Wilson tells an extraordinary tale: for two months, he was paid handsomely to copy the Encyclopedia Britannica as part of a mysterious organisation called "The Red-Headed League”. But Holmes suspects there's more to this bizarre scheme than meets the eye. With his suspicions aroused by Wilson's unusually accommodating young assistant, Holmes begins to unravel what may be an elaborate criminal conspiracy.

A Noiser production, written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Narrated by Hugh Bonneville. Produced by Katrina Hughes and Addison Nugent. Sound Design and Audio Editing by Thomas Pink. Compositions: Dorry Macaulay and Oliver Baines. Mix & Mastering: Cody Reynolds-Shaw. Series Consultant: Dan Smith.

Listen to Sherlock Holmes Short Stories The Red-Headed League: Part One

Find your next history podcast

Over 600 podcast episodes covering everything from Alexander the Great to the fridge.

When you subscribe to new episodes will be downloaded to your podcast player for free.

Step Two

Click the follow button on the player show page.

Remember you can always listen to your favourite Noiser podcasts on this website.