As shooting for his acclaimed TV series Sherlock continues, Benedict Cumberbatch is getting accustomed to working through many late nights and early mornings.

In the early hours of Wednesday morning - ahead of the sun fully rising over the British capital - the 39-year-old actor was spotted filming scenes as the titular character for the BBC production.

Wrapped up in a black woollen coat, Benedict acted out scenes described by onlookers as 'dramatic and emotional' as he stood on central London's imposing Hungerford Bridge.

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Back to work: Benedict Cumberbatch was seen shooting scenes for Sherlock in London on Wednesday

Given the decidedly early start to the day's production schedule, extra lights were in place to aid with visuals as the crew scurried about to capture the best shots.

Production on the anticipated series has pressed on in a variety of locations this summer, including the British capital and Cardiff.

Filming has continued at full-pace following Sherlock co-creators Steven Moffat and Gatiss' confirmation that the show was returning, following the New Year's special earlier.

Warming up: The acclaimed actor wrapped up in a black woollen coat as she shot pre-dawn scenes

'Emotional scenes': Onlookers described the scenes bring shot on the day as 'dramatic and emotional'

A river runs through it: The cast and drew gathered on central London's imposing Hungerford Bridge

In a statement, the duo said at the time: 'Sherlock series four - here we go again! Whatever else we do, wherever we all go, all roads lead back to Baker Street - and it always feels like coming home.

'Ghosts of the past are rising in the lives of Sherlock Holmes and John Watson bringing adventure, romance and terror in their wake.

'This is the story we've been telling from the beginning. A story about to reach its climax.'

Acclaimed: Benedict is returning for the fourth series of the BBC series, which has won acclaim from critics

The final countdown? The show's co-creators recently stated that the story is 'about to reach its climax'

Anticipated: Benedict as assured devoted fans of the show that the next series 'will be worth' the wait

Oscar-nominated screen star Benedict said he was 'thrilled' to be returning as the detective.

He said: 'I can't wait for everyone to see season four. But you will have to wait... though not for long... And it will be worth it.'

Series four will return to BBC later this year with three feature length episodes, while Benedict will also grace the big screen in Marvel's mystical action romp, Doctor Strange.

Location, location, location: Scenes were shot in a variety of locations, including the English capital and Cardiff

All of the lights: The crew used extra lighting to capture the perfect shots as production rolled on