It’s often the case when we’re traveling, that certain places remind us of the scenes we saw on the big screen.

And chances are, if you’re in London, that it was actually from that film you’ve seen.

Many famous Hollywood blockbusters like Harry Potter and Spider-Man, or cult classics like Bridget Jones’ Diary, Love Actually, and Notting Hill, have been filmed in London.

With so many filming locations, it’s easy to stumble across them, though if you’re actively seeking this out on vacation, these epic movie locations around the city are perfect for finding your favourite movie scene location. 

Famous Film Locations to Visit on Your London Trip

South Bank

Many films have been shot along this riverside location in the city. Attractions and buildings in South Bank include the Millennium Bridge, Tate Modern, and London Eye.

Because of the landscape’s constant evolution, it is one of the most popular locations in London. 

Currently, James Bond’s residence consists of several buildings on the South Bank, including the headquarters of MI6. Mission Impossible, Harry Potter, Kick Ass, Guardians of the Galaxy and The Bourne Ultimatum are other blockbusters shot here.

Just across from South Bank is London’s Hippodrome Casino, where the magic of film is often brought alive on stage, like the currently showing Magic Mike Live.

While not shot here specifically, the James Bond films have such strong ties to London that you could channel your inner Bond while there on blackjack, roulette, or slots, as the Hippodrome is one of the best casinos in the country (though there are also top Visa casinos in the UK and get the same excellent casino experience).

Tower Bridge

In addition to being one of London’s most recognisable landmarks, London Bridge has served as the set for numerous international films. Tomb Raider, The Mummy Returns, and The Imaginarium Of Doctor Parnassus are among a few.

More recently, the climactic scene in one of the latest Spider-Man films – the finale in Tower Bridge, on the bridge’s terrifying glass floor.

There are a lot of great photo opportunities here, but unlike the movies, you won’t have to endure as much intensity. 

Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus has been the backdrop for numerous movies, including the 1980s John Landis’s werewolf classic An American Werewolf in London, 28 Days Later and Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery. 

Films go back to the sixties, but there was a time when filming here was prohibited. That’s because while shooting a scene, Michael Winner set off an unexpected smoke bomb causing havoc around London.

The set was for The Jokers, about two crafty brothers trying to gain fame by stealing the Crown Jewels from the Tower of London.

Regents Park

There have been several feature films shot in this park over the years. One of the most popular locations for filmmakers is London Zoo inside Regent’s Park.

During a visit to the zoo’s live reptiles exhibit in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, Harry discovers that he has magical abilities. Additionally, the Zoo’s Prince Albert Suite was a wedding ceremony location in the comedy Leon the Pig Farmer. 

Other films that feature this park are The Man from U.N.C.L.E, Withnail and I, and the classic British romantic film Brief Encounter. In the film, Alec rows across a lake while sinking knee-deep in the water near the park’s Long Bridge.

Regents Park really is one of London’s top attractions. 

Notting Hill

One of the most photographable spots in London, Notting Hill has been the setting for numerous films, including, you guessed it, Notting Hill.

Richard Curtis called this area home, and you can find scenes from his movie all over it. It is even possible to take a two-hour tour of the place! During the tour, you’ll see all the iconic spots, such as the Travel Bookshop, Notting Hill Bookshop, and the Portobello Road blue door.

Fans of romantic comedy movies will also recognise Juliet’s house in St. Luke’s Mews, situated in Notting Hill, as the house in the Love Actually movie.