Do you enjoy spending your holidays stomping around the filming location for the next blockbuster sensation? Then welcome to our article, aficionado. Although the UK doesn’t quite have the same exotic vibe as the Mediterranean island of Malta, where Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal have recently been spotted filming the upcoming Gladiator film, there’s still a lot going for it. As Times of Malta reported, the British Islands can offer one better than year-round Maltese heat – by promising an epicentre of cinematic marvels. Whether you’re a Potterhead or a Bridget Jones fan, London has a rich cinematic history to quench all movie-buffs thirsts.
The Age of The Internet
Regardless of where you live in the world, you’re likely to be able to access the following London-based blockbusters online. Between streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime, James Bond, Notting Hill, and Harry Potter movies have broad coverage.
Unfortunately, regional differences with streaming platforms and ongoing streaming rights mean that you sometimes need help accessing titles. However, with tools like ExpressVPN, you can probably work around this issue by accessing the British versions of Netflix and Amazon Prime with another IP address. British Netflix and Amazon Prime will feature the respective titles at any given time as they’re frequently amongst the most popular titles with viewers.
This way, if you’re currently unable to afford the holy pilgrimage to London to visit the iconic landmarks and backdrops that make these films the successes they are, you can still get your fill of your favourite ‘Big Smoke’ movies from home, wherever that may be.
James Bond
There’s no denying that the James Bond franchise is one of the most iconic and enduring in cinematic history. For over five decades, we’ve been enthralled by the thrilling adventures of 007, and it’s no secret that London plays a significant role in the production of this legendary franchise.
Being Bond’s turf, London has become synonymous with the suave spy’s world. The city’s iconic landmarks are the perfect backdrop for Bond’s high-stakes escapades. Whether it’s The Shards skyline, the Houses of Parliament, or the London Eye, a bit of Bond takes centre stage in each of these London landmarks in various Bond films. Let’s not forget MI6’s secret headquarters, portrayed as the sleek and cool futuristic building over the River Thames. In theory, this is as close as we ordinary folk will ever get to know the ins and outs of a central intelligence agency. So thanks for intel, Bond!
Harry Potter
Several locations in London, such as King’s Cross Station (Platform 9 and ¾), Leadenhall Market (Diagon Alley), and Millennium Bridge, were featured prominently in the Harry Potter films, adding a magical touch to the city’s landscape. For most Brits, watching Harry Potter is a yearly occurrence when ITV decides to treat its viewers in the lead-up to Christmas with all eight magnificent films. Hazza P truly is engrained in our culture.
Things are always pretty magical in #London & the fantastic @pip_says has written all about it for @myldn 🔮✨
— London & Partners (@londonpartners) July 19, 2023
We helped her plan the ultimate Harry Potter weekend in the capital, packed with themed experiences 🐉🎇
Read her full piece here 👇 https://t.co/b6wdkCfPyG
Notting Hill
This romantic classic starring our very own classically British Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts showcases the charm of London’s Notting Hill neighbourhood. The famous blue door of the main character’s house has become an iconic landmark for Julia Robert and Hugh Grant stans. In the film, you get to see Notting Hill’s colourful houses and quaint little markets.
Portobello Road, in particular, gained significant attention and has become a popular tourist spot since the film’s release. The fashion choices of Roberts’s wardrobe from the set have impacted the fashion industry still to this day, with even British Vogue noting how we underestimated the fashion from Julia at the time! Notting Hill was way ahead of its time.
A publicity photo of Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant for the romantic comedy movie Notting Hill, 1999.
— Edward the Movie Buff 🎥🎞📽🎬💻 (@midgetmoxie) July 19, 2023
Image courtesy of Universal Pictures pic.twitter.com/KQRHTOQORV
London, A Cinema-Buffs Stomping Ground
These three films and film series are just a glimpse of the treasure trove of cinematic wonders London has to offer. From action-packed spy thrillers to heartwarming romances and fantastical wizarding adventures, the city’s medieval history, diverse architecture, and iconic landmarks have elevated it to an unparalleled cinematic stage. We hope you walk around with open eyes and a fuller heart on your next trip to London as you take in all the magic once more.
