London has become a prominent backdrop for countless films and television productions over the years. Its eclectic mix of modern and historic landmarks, charming streets, and diverse neighborhoods provide filmmakers with a vast canvas to bring their stories to life. In this article, I’m delving into some of the most famous filming locations in London that have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
Famous Filming Locations in London
The Travel Bookshop
Film: Notting Hill
The charming district of Notting Hill gained worldwide fame as the setting for the eponymous romantic comedy starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts. Portobello Road Market, with its vibrant colors and eclectic shops, played a pivotal role in the film, creating an enduring image of London’s bohemian atmosphere. Stroll along the charming cobbled streets of Notting Hill to 142 Portobello Road, home to the world-famous bookshop featured in the star-studded movie, Notting Hill. While Hugh Grant’s cherished ‘Travel Bookshop’ wasn’t an actual bookshop but a gift shop, the owner decided to preserve the iconic ‘The Travel Bookshop’ sign for the film’s millions of fans. To explore Notting Hill with a guide, visit famous filming locations, browse the bustling Portobello Road Market, and hear stories of London-based celebrities, join this walking tour!
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Location: 142 Portobello Rd, London W11 2DZ
St Luke’s Mews
Film: Love Actually
Few films capture British charm like the Christmas classic, Love Actually. If you’re on the hunt for the setting of the iconic ‘To me, you are perfect’ scene with Keira Knightley and Andrew Lincoln, look no further. Visit number 27 St Luke’s Mews in one of Notting Hill’s most colorful streets to find the exact spot where Mark expressed his love for his best friend’s new wife. Notting Hill’s mews are among the prettiest and most picturesque spots in London, making it a delightful discovery for fans of the film. Please be mindful that people reside in these houses, so approach with respect if you choose to take photos.
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Location: 15 St Lukes Mews, London W11 1DF
King’s Cross Station
Film: Harry Potter
For fans of the wizarding world looking for the top Harry Potter filming locations in London, King’s Cross Station is a must-visit. The iconic Platform 9¾, where Harry Potter and his friends embark on their magical journey to Hogwarts, has become a symbol of the beloved film series. A dedicated photo spot with a half-disappeared trolley allows visitors to recreate the enchanting moment. Click here to join a walking tour with other Harry Potter fans!
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Location: Euston Rd., London N1 9AL
St. Pancras International
Film: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
St. Pancras International, a beautifully restored Victorian railway station, exudes elegance and grandeur and houses on the city’s most luxurious hotels. In addition to its architectural splendor, it gained fame as the filming location for the fantasy film “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” where the station served as a backdrop for the magical flying car scenes.
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Location: Euston Rd., London N1C 4QP
Leandenhall Market
Film: Harry Potter
Leadenhall Market, nestled in the heart of the City, stands as one of the top filming locations in London, offering visitors a captivating blend of history and cinematic charm. With its stunning Victorian architecture and cobbled pathways, the market has served as the backdrop for numerous iconic films, including the Harry Potter series, where it portrayed Diagon Alley. Its enchanting ambiance, vibrant storefronts, and ornate details make it a visually captivating destination.
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Location: Gracechurch St, London EC3V 1LT
Millennium Bridge
Film: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Millennium Bridge, a modern architectural marvel spanning the River Thames, stands as another prominent filming location in London, celebrated for its sleek design and breathtaking views of the city skyline. Famously featured in the Harry Potter film “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,” where it is targeted and partially destroyed by Death Eaters, the bridge has become an iconic symbol of both cinematic magic and contemporary London. As visitors traverse its pedestrian-friendly expanse, they are treated to panoramic vistas of St. Paul’s Cathedral on one side and Tate Modern on the other, creating an immersive experience that seamlessly blends film lore with the dynamic energy of the city.
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Location: Thames Embankment, London EC4V 3QH
Australia House
Film: Harry Potter
The UK birthed one of the most iconic wizarding film series, drawing inspiration mainly from its capital. Harry Potter enthusiasts are familiar with key locations like Millennium Bridge, King’s Cross’s Platform 9¾, and the Watford-based Harry Potter Studios. Yet, hidden gems abound, such as Gringotts Bank, filmed at Australia House. A glimpse inside reveals a grand hall and opulent décor, evoking images of irate goblins.
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Location: 71 Aldwych, London WC2B 4HN
Westminster
Films: V for Vendetta, The Iron Lady
The political heart of London, Westminster, is often showcased in films that delve into political intrigue and drama. The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben (now officially known as the Elizabeth Tower) have become symbols of political power and are frequently featured in films such as “V for Vendetta” and “The Iron Lady.”
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Location: London SW1A 0AA
National Gallery
Film: Skyfall
The National Gallery is a popular choice for many London-filmed movies, with one standout being the 2012 James Bond blockbuster, Skyfall. In a memorable scene, James Bond meets Q, and they sit admiring JMW Turner’s painting, The Fighting Temeraire. If you’re a Bond film enthusiast with an appreciation for historic art, the National Gallery is a must-visit attraction in London. Additionally, you can sit in the very spot where Daniel Craig filmed this iconic scene. If you’re a James Bond fan, join this tour to visit over 10 locations featured in his films and learn about the film-making process that brings them to life. You’ll certainly have a lot of fun exploring the secret-agent side of London, discovering bunkers, and more.
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Location: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN
Borough Market
Films: Bridget Jones’s Diary, Sherlock Holmes series
Borough Market, nestled near London Bridge, has served as a picturesque setting for numerous films and TV shows. Its lively atmosphere, diverse food stalls, and historic surroundings made it an ideal backdrop for scenes in “Bridget Jones’s Diary” and the Sherlock Holmes series, among others. You can explore Bridget Jones film locations seen in all three movies, including her residence, the iconic diary kiss scene, memorial service, and other notable spots on this 2.5-hour walking tour.
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Location: London SE1 9AL
The Globe Tavern
Film: Bridget Jones’ Diary
Just a few doors away from this quintessential pub stands the residence Bridget Jones called home in the beloved romantic comedy, Bridget Jones’ Diary. In 2001, when the movie was released, Borough Market was a serene locale, quite different from today’s bustling foodie destination depicted in the film. The Globe Tavern, prominently situated at the market’s edge, invites you to experience a drink in the very place where Bridget once buzzed Mark Darcy into her flat.
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Location: 8 Bedale St, London SE1 9AL
The Shard
Film: Skyfall
London’s skyline underwent a dramatic change with the introduction of The Shard, Western Europe’s tallest skyscraper. Its gleaming glass exterior has featured prominently in films like “Skyfall,” a James Bond adventure. The juxtaposition of the sleek modern structure against the city’s historical backdrop creates a cinematic visual feast.
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Location: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG
Charing Cross
Film: The Bourne Ultimatum
It might seem peculiar to Londoners that Charing Cross is a favored film location for many movies. Yet, the closed section of the station, formerly part of the Jubilee Line, is preserved and available for filming rentals (not open to the public). Blockbusters like The Bourne Ultimatum have capitalized on this unique setting, portraying a scene familiar to many Londoners – a rapid journey through a station with doors sliding shut at the last moment. Join this guided walking tour to uncover the abandoned areas of Charing Cross Underground station, stroll beneath Trafalgar Square, and experience the London Underground from a unique perspective.
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Location: Strand, London WC2N 5HF
Churchill War Rooms
Film: Darkest Hour
Step into the historical setting of the multi-Oscar-winning film Darkest Hour, which unfolds in 1940 during British Prime Minister Winston Churchill’s pivotal decision-making period. For history enthusiasts, this London filming location is a definite must-visit. The Churchill War Rooms, situated underground in the city center, served as the authentic top-secret command center for Churchill and the British armed forces during World War II. While Darkest Hour employed specially-made props, the very walls captured on film were the genuine article. Purchase tickets to explore the Churchill War Rooms and witness history come to life.
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Location: King Charles St, London SW1A 2AQ
Old Royal Naval College
Films: Thor: The Dark World, Les Misérables, Napoléon
Greenwich, home to the historic Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian, has played a role in films that involve time travel and historical settings. Movies like “Thor: The Dark World” showcase the stunning landscapes of Greenwich Park, while the historic Cutty Sark and the Royal Naval College provide unique settings for various other cinematic adventures. The Old Royal Naval College is a real architectural gem that underwent a remarkable transformation for the 2012 Les Misérables remake. Portraying the streets of 1832 Paris during Lamarque’s funeral procession, this iconic landmark became the backdrop for the famous ‘Do You Hear the People Sing?’ scene. While watching the film, the emotional intensity may captivate you, and you might not immediately recognize that the Parisian streets are, in fact, the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich. If you’re looking for historical filming locations in London, this is a must-visit! Get the chance to visit all the iconic filming locations in person with this guided walking tour around the Old Royal Naval College grounds.
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Location: London SE10 9NN
Highgate Cemetery
Film: Fantastic Beasts: Crimes of Grindelwald
The battle scene in Fantastic Beasts: Crimes of Grindelwald found its perfect match in Highgate Cemetery, North London. Renowned as one of the country’s most beautiful cemeteries, adorned with climbing vines and draping ivy, it served as the ideal location for the mysterious Lestrange family mausoleum. Explore Highgate’s West Cemetery, passing the gravestones of notable figures, and reach the Circle of Lebanon, a key architectural feature. It was here that the filming for the second Fantastic Beasts movie unfolded, portraying what appears to be Cimetière du Père-Lachaise, the largest cemetery in Paris. A visit is not only a cinematic experience but also a journey through a fascinating and beautiful burial ground.
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Location: Swain’s Ln, London N6 6PJ
Chalcot Crescent
Film: Paddington
The adored Paddington movies, a British family favorite, enjoyed immediate success. If you’re a fan visiting London, consider exploring the on-screen family home. Chalcot Crescent’s lively pastel-colored townhouses, particularly number 30, serve as the exterior for Paddington Bear and the Brown family. Situated in the charming Primrose Hill area of North London, take a leisurely stroll past this iconic house. While in the area, ascend Primrose Hill for panoramic views of London’s skyline amid lush greenery, making your visit a delightful blend of cinematic charm and scenic beauty.
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Location: Chalcot Cres
Senate House, University of London
Film: The Dark Knight and Batman Begins
Senate House has featured prominently in several films, but its most notable connections are with the Batman movies, The Dark Knight and Batman Begins. In Batman Begins, it served as the courthouse, and in The Dark Knight Rises, it was the backdrop for the masquerade ball scene. Fans of the films will immediately recognize the significance of these scenes when visiting the location in person.
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Location: Senate House, University of, Malet St, London WC1E 7HU
Huntsman
Film: Kingsman
Nestled on Savile Row, right amidst Piccadilly Circus, Mayfair, and Soho, stands a sophisticated tailor shop famously used as the clandestine entrance to the underground organization in the film Kingsman: The Secret Service. In this cinematic masterpiece, spy extraordinaire Harry Hart (Colin Firth) escorts his protege Eggy (Taron Egerton) through this opulent central London tailor. It serves as the gateway to Eggy’s rigorous boot camp and ‘interview’ deep below. A casual stroll down Savile Row might evoke thoughts of a location chosen by a film crew, and interestingly, Huntsman served as part of the inspiration behind this blockbuster. While a new suit may be out of reach, paying a visit to this tailor, especially if you’re a fan of the movie, while in the heart of the city might just reward you with a glimpse of someone mysterious walking out—you never know!
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Location: 11 Savile Row, London W1S 3PS
Battersea Power station
Film: The King’s Speech
In 2011, The King’s Speech achieved Oscar glory, securing Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Actor for Colin Firth. The film portrays the true story of future King George VI, whose wife, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, enlists speech therapist Lionel Logue to help him overcome his stammer. Given its focus on the Royal Family, the movie extensively uses various London locations, including Battersea Power Station.
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Location: Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London SW11 8DD
Map Of The Most Famous Filming Locations in London
If you’re planning to embark on a self-guided tour through these iconic spots from beloved films, access the map now to find the locations mentioned in this article!
As you may have noticed, the diverse neighborhoods and iconic landmarks of the British capital continue to captivate both filmmakers and audiences alike. From romantic comedies to fantasy epics, these famous filming locations in London have played a pivotal role in bringing stories to life on the silver screen. Whether it’s the cobblestone streets of Notting Hill or the futuristic skyline dominated by The Shard, London’s cinematic allure remains timeless. Exploring these famous filming locations in London not only offers a glimpse into the magic of cinema but also provides a chance to experience the vibrant and dynamic spirit of one of the world’s most iconic cities.
