London is the backdrop to many films. From period dramas to action films there is no limit to the stories that are told here. Some of the most iconic films of our generation like Harry Potter have taken part in this amazing city! So, in case you want to indulge in your film fantasies while visiting the UK we thought we would round up some of the best film locations in London and other cities near it!
Film Locations in London #1 Notting Hill
The famous rom-com, “Notting Hill” was filmed in the now famous and bright neighborhood of, well, Notting Hill. The films stars Hugh Grant who plays a bookshop keeper who has a chance encounter with a famous actress played by Julia Roberts in his store. The film follows their romance story that is filmed against the backdrop of the area. The film takes place mainly on Portobello Road and in fact, the actual book shop still remains nearby! It’s a great place to visit while in London and if you are a lover of the film then it is totally worth it!
- Address: 306 Portobello Road, London WIO 5TA
Photo credit: Twitter @NottingHillBook
Film Locations in London #2 Highclere Castle, Hampshire
So, yes, this one is not exactly close to London however you can take a day trip from London to the now iconic castle. Lovers of the hit TV series Downton Abbey will be well familiar with the grounds and the interior of this castle as much of the series was actually filmed here! The castle is a country seat of the Earls of Carnarvon and is now accessible to the public! They even have an Egyptian exhibition and visitors can visit its huge (and might we add, beautiful) gardens! It should be a must-visit if you loved the series as you will literally be walking on the once set of the show!
- Address: Highclere Park, Highclere, Newbury, RG20 9RN UK
Photo credit: Alnwick Castle
Film Locations in London #3 Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich
Not only is this building architecturally beautiful it is also the home to numerous films. This former Royal Palace which faces the Thames is now an official World Heritage Site. It is open to the public and well worth a visit! The exterior and interior are all incredibly breathtaking! Which makes it ideal for all types of films and movies! The Old Royal Naval College has been the film location for films like Cinderella, Four Weddings and a Funeral, The Duchess, and even the superhero film Thor! So, stop by next time you are in London, it’s sure not to disappoint!
- Address: King William Walk, Greenwich Peninsula, London SE10 9NN
Photo credit: University of Greenwich
Film Locations in London #4 Oxford University
Oxford is an easy day trip outside of London! Also, it’s a great spot for fans of the Harry Potter Films. Oxford University was the film location for many of the Hogwarts scenes, especially the earlier movies. Some of the film locations include the dining room hall, the library Harry went through in his invisibility cloak and more! You can take a guided walking tour of the film location spots at the university when you visit! Oxford itself is a great visit so doing the tour will just make it that much better!
- Address: Oxford OX1 2JD
Photo credit: ox.ac.uk
Bonus Harry Potter Location:
If you can’t make it to Oxford to get a glimpse of the Wizard World, you can get a glimpse of it at King’s Cross Station! There you will find the iconic platform 9 3⁄4 between platforms 8 and 9!
Photo credit: kingscross.co.uk
Film Locations in London #5 Trafalgar Square
As well as being one of the most visited spots in London, Trafalgar Square is also a popular film location in London. Films like Captain America: The First Avenger, V for Vendetta, James Bond: Skyfall and more have scenes here. Trafalgar Square is in the most central part of London and a well-known landmark by all who live in or visit the city. There is a very slim chance you won’t see it on your visit to London. This is also why it makes its way in many films that are set in London. So when you visit it make sure to look out for any parts of it that you saw in any movies!
- Address: Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London WC2N 5DN
Photo credit: Foster + Partners