Famous Movies That Were Filmed in London

Famous Movies That Were Filmed in London

I love discussing London set movies with people, because everyone’s point of reference is always completely different.

Some go immediately nostalgic and right to Mary Poppins or 101 Dalmatians; others recall an Olsen twin film or two that were made in the British capital, probably involving the theme of “London Calling” by The Clash; and then some, like me, can only ever picture Helena Bonham Carter trolling through the boroughs of London in Sweeny Todd.

Here are a handful more for your reference next time it comes up…

The Harry Potter Movies

Another set of films that had Miss Bonham Carter trolling the streets was the very important, very loved, very amazing Harry Potter film series.

I’m not going to provide a synopsis for this one. If you haven’t seen them you probably shouldn’t set foot in London just yet.

It’s a stomping ground for these revolutionary books turned films; almost every major neighborhood in London was used in the creation of the movies in some way. So much so that there are an array of black cab tours, guided walking tours, muggle tours and studio tours available that will show you all of the Harry Potter attractions across London.

These films are an important part of British culture, believe it or not. They changed the world for the better, and London is very proud to be so heavily connected to them.

Notting Hill

Directed by Roger Michell – 1999

The neighborhood of Notting Hill lies in London west, just next to Hyde Park. Whether you choose to take a guided walking tour, or you pay a visit at your own accord, this is one area that is a must for anyone wanting greater perspective of local London life — oh, and anyone wanting to see where Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts made cinema history.

The film was made in a variety of locations around London, but set predominantly in Notting Hill. You’ll identify a few of the iconic streets, especially the ones lined with colorful houses, and you’ll also be able to visit the Notting Hill Bookstore that features in the movie.

Notting Hill is also the home of the Portobello Road Market; the largest antique market on the planet. It’s open daily but Saturdays are the real showstopper. Come early!

Bend It Like Beckham

Directed by Gurinder Chadha – 2002

90s babies will remember this film very well. They’ll also remember being in a perpetual state of confusion for the duration as to whether it was actually a lesbian movie or not. Are these two in love? Who is this guy? Oh, so they both like him. But they seem very gay, are they sure?

Ring a bell?

Bend It Like Beckham is the movie that launched Keira Knightly as one of the best things to come out of London in a very long time.

Most of the filming took place in Hounslow in West London, not far from our beloved Notting Hill.

Love Actually

Directed by Richard Curtis — 2003

I doubt I’m the only person who still watches this gem from 2003 at least once a year. Nothing like Christmas Time and the freedom (and time) to watch all of your guilty pleasures over again.

If you’ve yet to see it, it follows eight different stories of individuals trying to navigate the trials of the festive season. The all star cast made headlines during its release; there are a handful of London’s top actors including Miss Keira Knightley, Colin Firth, High Grant and the late but great Alan Rickman (who was also a London native).

If you’ll be spending Christmas in London then this film is a fantastic representation of what you can expect. The best time of year in London town, in my opinion.

The Da Vinci Code

Directed by Ron Howard — 2006

Another cult classic that shook the world when it was first released in 2006. Tom Hanks stars in this one, and while most of the film was made in Paris, there are parts set in London that they actually came to London to film.

Kings College and the Temple Church, right in the city center, are two noted locations.

Hanks roams the continent on a wild journey in attempt to uncover a very well kept secret that could change the course of humanity as we know it. This was originally a book by Dan Brown.

Bridget Jones Diary

Directed by Sharon Maguire— 2001

This is another film that is definitely still a guilty pleasure for a number of people in the world.

The Bridget Jones films follow the life of a local London girl looking to change herself for the better. One can watch these movies and easily spot key landmarks and attractions throughout the film, including The Globe Tavern and the Royal Exchange in Cornhill.

This was another swoon-worthy performance from both Hugh Grant and Colin Firth, with Renee Zellweger in the lead role. 

V for Vendetta

Directed by James McTeigue — 2005

Watching this movie changed the way I see a lot of things. I believe it to be one of the most important films ever made.

I also believe Natalie Portman can do no wrong, and this is just another testament to that.

In V for Vendetta you’ll be shown post war London; a city under fascist regime whose only challengers are the vigilantes who attempt to overthrow them. One of them, is “V”.

Filming actually took place in a number of different European cities, despite being set in London. Parts that were filmed locally include scenes in Trafalgar Square, Parliament Square and Farrington Station.