Coolest Movie Locations In London 

Guest post by Dakota Murphey

London has been the backdrop for countless iconic films over the years, from black and white classics to modern blockbusters. For anyone who loves movies and the world of celebrities, the capital’s unique neighbourhoods are perfect for people-watching and celeb spotting especially during the celebrated film season. 

London came alive before (and after) the recent British Academy of Film and Television awards, or ‘Baftas’ as they are commonly known. The glamorous film event is held each year in London and is considered a precursor to the US Oscars Academy Awards which – in its 96th year – takes place on March 10th, 2024. 

At London’s Bafta’s, ‘Oppenheimer’ took centre stage, winning seven gongs. The city rolled out the red carpet for some of the UK’s hottest homegrown actors, executives and talented crew as they descended on the capital and sprinkled their own special stardust. As the world awaits this year’s highly-anticipated Oscars, fans everywhere will tune in to watch celebrated movie stars rock up and shine at the film industry’s most illustrious awards. 

However, for film-buffs, London’s luxury shops, fine-dining options and famous attractions can make you look and feel like a star during your visit at any time of year.

Celeb Hangouts

During this year’s film awards season, London is buzzing with excitement ahead of the Oscars. With celebrities already in London after the Baftas, and for exciting pre-Oscars events, there are plenty of opportunities to spot A-listers at London’s top hotels, restaurants, major attractions and nightclubs. Search for film stars at some of London’s prestigious, five-star hotels like The Savoy, Claridge’s and The Corinthia, where nominees and presenters often stay. Visit hotel bars like Claridge’s Bar or The Fumoir at The Claridges. According to recent rumours, you’ll likely spot movie stars in many places as they bring a touch of glamour, Hollywood and an Oscars–party scene to London!

If you are planning to dine out at one of London’s most famous celebrity haunts, you’ll want to look the part and dress to impress. It is most definitely time to wear your finest evening attire including cufflinks and a tailored shirt. This is your moment to shine with a designer dress for your own ‘Who are you wearing, darling’ moment! If you need to shop for something special, celebs love the boutique shops lining Sloane Street and Bond Street. Splash out on designer dresses at Harvey Nichols, Valentino and Alexander McQueen. 

Annabel’s members club in Mayfair

To truly dazzle, you might prefer to accessorise with diamonds from Tiffany’s or Boodles and get glam with makeup from Charlotte Tilbury or Tom Ford Beauty. For dining like the stars, make reservations at celeb-favoured restaurants, including 34 Mayfair, The Wolseley, and Scott’s. Nightclubs like Chiltern Firehouse, Annabel’s, and The Box host star-studded bashes in the nights leading up to the big day.

Film Locations 

If you are fortunate enough to be in London during Oscars week or when a premiere takes place, you might be interested in visiting one of the many well-known film locations dotted across this photogenic, historic and interesting capital. One of the most recognisable areas is the South Bank which has been featured in films like Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and The Mummy Returns. 

A walk along the River Thames on its historic bridges will take you past landmarks such as the London Eye, the National Theatre and Tate Modern, all of which have appeared on the big screen. Don’t miss the Millennium Bridge, where the Death Eaters attack in Harry Potter, or Gabriel’s Wharf, where the Mummy emerges from the Thames.

Star Attractions

No tour of London’s cinematic spots is complete without a visit to Trafalgar Square and its famous Nelson’s Column, which was climbed by both King Kong and Venom in their respective blockbusters. The square is also where Bridget Jones spoke to crowds of Londoners in Bridget Jones’s Diary. Stop for a photo op on the giant lion statues, just like in The Chronicles of Narnia. Meanwhile, the popular and revitalised Borough Market area near London Bridge appeared in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Bridget Jones’s Diary, and several other flicks. The atmospheric streets surrounding the market are brimming with photogenic Victorian buildings and pubs that seem custom-made for the silver screen. 

In West London, Notting Hill offers plenty of fab film sets from the 1999 rom-com of the same name. Here you’ll remember the breakfast scene at The Electric Diner, the site of the infamous, “I’m just a girl standing in front of a boy…” scene. Then meander down Portobello Road Market and pop into The Travel Book Co, where Hugh Grant’s character works. Don’t miss the charming houses on nearby Rosmead Gardens and St Luke’s Mews, home to the film’s protagonists.

Moving north, Camden Town is home to Stables Market and the Camden Lock, both vibrant hubs of food stalls, quirky shops, and punk culture. Scenes from movies like The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, The Lady in the Van and Batman were all filmed in this eclectic neighbourhood. If visiting film sets is a personal passion whenever and wherever you travel, you won’t want to miss the striking houses in the charming ‘village’ of Primrose Hill. This exclusive area serves as the residence of the main characters in Bridget Jones’s Diary, Notting Hill, and Love Actually. Snap a photo while strolling down so-charming Regent’s Park Road or grabbing a bite nearby at eateries like Lemonia or Mama’s Jerk.

Inner Starlets 

If you want to personally channel your inner starlet with a pre-Oscars pamper day, take advantage of London’s wealth of high-end spas like the Bulgari Spa or Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre. Indulge in luxurious treatments and an A-list makeover to make you feel red-carpet-ready. Get into the Hollywood spirit by booking a limo service like Addison Lee to whisk you around town in style. Alternatively, live out your celeb fantasies by hiring a luxury ride from companies like Prestige London, who can kit out everything from Rolls Royces to vintage Jaguars.

Showtime Magic

Aside from star spotting, London also offers plenty of movie magic and places to eat after dark. Attend a star-studded premiere at historic movie theatres like the Odeon Leicester Square or at the British Film Industry’s cool Southbank riverside setting. If you have a few days to plan events and activities, you can also catch arthouse films at The Prince Charles Cinema or Curzon Soho. 

For unforgettable theatre experiences, book an award-winning performance at venues like The Bridge, The Old Vic, The National Theatre or Shaftesbury Theatre in the famous West End. Experience raw comedic talent at comedy clubs like the Soho Theatre, Comedy Store and The Comedy Pub. Dance the night away at music venues steeped in legend – like Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, KOKO or the Royal Albert Hall. End the night sipping cocktails at exclusive bars tucked away in luxury hotels, like The Connaught Bar, Scarfes Bar at Rosewood or American Bar at The Savoy.

With its glitzy premieres, star-studded parties and cinematic backdrops, London comes alive in the build-up to the Oscars Film Awards or during the launch of any new film releases.

Keen to explore the coolest movie locations in London? You’ll surely need a place to stay and our collection of apartments and homes in London has exactly what you’re looking for. Some homes have exceptionally large TV screens so you can watch the Oscars and all your top films in the highest definition. Check out all our homes in the UK and the full portfolio of properties around the world on Oliver’s Travels. Then, contact our concierge team to hear about all the fabulous extras we can help you to book to make your UK stay incredible!