Ian Fleming penned the first Bond novel over 50 years ago, and in that book an action character like no other was born. Today, James Bond is so entwined in British culture, he could almost have been a living man.

Who could resists the glamour, the gadgets and that non-assuming English charm? Fictional or not, we love this man, and we know you do too. Luckily for us all there are plenty of places in Britain where we can indulge our passion for all things 007.

Imperial War Museum

This year, the Imperial War Museum in London is celebrating the centenary of Ian Fleming's birth with For Your Eyes Only - the first major exhibition devoted to the author. Running until 1 March 2009, For Your Eyes Only will look at the life of this great author and examine how much of the Bond novels were imaginary and how far they were based on real people and events.

Beaulieu - former MI6 headquarters

Leafy Beaulieu in the heart of the New Forest is the last place you'd expect to find some of the world's most skilled saboteurs, but perhaps that was the point when MI6 set up base there during the Cold War. It's hard to believe this scenic and serene Hampshire village was once the UK headquarters for sabotage and subversion.

Visit the Secret Army Exhibition (www.beaulieu.co.uk/lotstosee-secret-army.cfm), which tells the story of over 3,000 agents of the British Special Operations Executive (SOE) who completed their secret training at the Beaulieu 'Finishing School' during World War ll.

National Motor Museum

Beaulieu has another treat for us Bond fanatics, the James Bond Experience (www.beaulieu.co.uk/lotstosee-james-bond-experience.cfm) exhibition at the National Motor Museum. This is your chance to get close to genuine James Bond vehicles and artefacts that you'll recognise from many of the films. Not too close though, as some of the items are lethal!

Pinewood Studios

Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire is where many of Bond's spectacular movie feats have been filmed. It's also where many of our favourite TV shows are recorded and there are lots of studio sessions where you can actually go along and be a part of the audience (www.pinewoodgroup.com/AudienceClub/) for free. Nearby you'll also find Black Park, which was the rebel camp in Uganda at the start of Casino Royale.

MI6 Building London

Home to the Secret Intelligence Service (SIS), or better known as MI6. This iconic building in central London is the operational workplace of James Bond where M briefs him and Q gives him gadgets. It's also starred in a number of Bond movies. It's cubic architecture and imposing façade are completely in fitting with the buildings purpose and is a must-see for any true 007 fan.

Scott's of Mayfair

Right. We know Daniel Craig's Bond doesn't "give a damn" if his Martini's shaken or stirred, but we also know there's a little part of everyone that can't resist uttering those immortal words, "shaken, not stirred". So if you're going to indulge the fantasy, do it at Scott's (www.scotts-restaurant.com/).

Scott's was established in 1851 as an oyster warehouse and rapidly evolved into the famous seafood restaurant and oyster bar we know today. Scott's has always been one of the most fashionable eateries in town welcoming a host of stars, politicians and writers. Scott's was Ian Fleming's favourite restaurant and he was often seen here in the 50s and 60s. It's also reported that it was here he discovered the dry martini "shaken not stirred".