Discover London Through the Lens of Cinema
London has proven an irresistible source of inspiration to film directors over the decades, providing an epic backdrop for productions ranging from feel-good rom-coms to edge-of-your-seat thrillers. Consequently, the city is teeming with recognizable locations that are perfect for exploration. Once discovered, visitors can reenact relevant scenes and even ponder their imaginary acceptance speeches.
Immediate disclaimer: the UK capital has appeared on the big screen more times than James Bond has defeated anonymous henchmen, so the following recommendations are but a brief snapshot from the vast library of films set in London.
Family Flicks and Wide-Eyed Kids
Numerous classic characters from London-based children’s literature have made their way to film. Mary Poppins (1964), Disney’s musical fantasy based on P.L. Travers’ character, is a prime example. This film was a remarkable success, winning five of the thirteen Academy Awards for which it was nominated. Although primarily filmed in the US, you can visit Travers’ home, the inspiration for the Banks’ residence in the stories, located at 50 Smith St, Chelsea.
More recently, the Harry Potter film franchise showcased various London locations. Famous scenes were shot on the Millennium Bridge, transformed into Brockdale Bridge in The Half Blood Prince, and in Leadenhall Market, depicted as the magical shopping street Diagon Alley in The Philosopher’s Stone. Enthusiastic fans should not miss visiting King’s Cross Station for a photo op at the famous Platform 9¾.
The world’s most beloved bear has starred in two films recently, Paddington (2014) and Paddington 2 (2017), both receiving critical acclaim. Be sure to check out his statue at the station that brought him to life. Likewise, The BFG (2016), based on Roald Dahl’s book, features memorable scenes at Buckingham Palace and was similarly well-received.
Romantic Comedy Highlights: Curtis and Grant
In the realm of successful rom-coms set in London, two names consistently emerge: writer/director Richard Curtis and actor Hugh Grant. They have collaborated on such British classics as Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994), Notting Hill (1999), and Love Actually (2003). Locations like the chapel in Greenwich’s Old Royal Naval College and the church of St Bartholomew-the-Great shine brightly in these films.
Curtis and Grant were also pivotal in the first two films of the hit Bridget Jones trilogy starring Renée Zellweger: Bridget Jones’ Diary (2001) and Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004), which showcases scenes set above the Globe Pub, near Borough Market.
The Thrill of It All
London’s thrilling atmosphere has also made it a prime location for some of cinema’s most exciting scenes. Zombie classic 28 Days Later (2002) features a hauntingly deserted post-apocalyptic London, showcasing character Jim (Cillian Murphy) walking over the empty Westminster Bridge. Guy Ritchie’s acclaimed Sherlock Holmes (2009) introduces Robert Downey Jr. as the iconic detective, with scenes shot at St Paul’s Cathedral and innovative computer-generated footage of Tower Bridge.
London consistently attracts globe-trotting action heroes who, despite their fleeting stays, leave an indelible mark. The franchise’s most famous spy, James Bond, frequently visits the MI6 building in Vauxhall and is seen in iconic locations such as the National Gallery and Trafalgar Square. Other notable mentions include Matt Damon’s Jason Bourne in The Bourne Ultimatum (2007) and Tom Cruise’s Ethan Hunt in Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018), both of whom embark on thrilling adventures rooted in the city’s iconic backdrop.
Cops and Robbers
London’s gritty yet glamorous vibe has often provided an atmospheric setting for shady characters. The Krays (1990) chronicles the rise of notorious gangster twins Ronnie and Reggie Kray, incorporating real-life locations like the Blind Beggar pub in Whitechapel.
Modern crime capers from writer/director Guy Ritchie, such as Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998) and Snatch (2000), delve into London’s underground scene, featuring recognizable locations like Park Street opposite Borough Market and the elusive Ye Olde Mitre, a hidden gem.
Cinematic Experiences in London
One place in London that guarantees movie deja vu is the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, a popular backdrop for films including Les Misérables (2012) and The King’s Speech (2010). A visit here provides an excellent glimpse into London’s cinematic heritage.
While exploring movie sets can be thrilling, London offers many other ways to connect with its film scene. Visit Leicester Square, known as the home for UK film premieres, or head to the London Film Museum to see over a hundred cars and artifacts from the James Bond franchise.
Across the river, the British Film Institute (BFI) screens thousands of films annually and hosts the London Film Festival each October. For those interested in homegrown talent, the East End Film Festival spotlights local filmmakers.
Engage in a unique cinematic experience with Secret Cinema, which hosts interactive film events in specially designed sets. Alternatively, enjoy classic films under the stars at the Rooftop Film Club. For a breathtaking setting, visit Somerset House during Film4’s annual Summer Screen.
Lastly, relish the experience of watching films at the magnificent Royal Albert Hall, which occasionally hosts Films in Concert, featuring iconic movies accompanied by a live orchestra. This is a truly epic way to enjoy cinema.
Aaaaand cut: that’s a wrap.
