Notting Hill, starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, cemented the reputation of its namesake neighbourhood as one of London’s most romantic corners. Sadly, the original bookshop that inspired the film’s location has since closed, but a themed gift shop has sprung up in its place. If you’d prefer something a little more authentic, take a stroll down Portobello Road, which is filled with vintage fashion boutiques and antique bric-a-brac shops. One that’s certain to catch your eye is Alice’s – not just because of its bright scarlet façade and piles of treasures, but from its on-screen appearances in Paddington and Paddington 2. Saturday is the area’s main market day; stay at the refined Hilton London Hyde Park nearby, set your alarm and get there early for the best finds.
London’s historic architecture also makes it a popular choice of filming location for period dramas. Those enthralled by the pomp and ceremony of regal TV shows such as Bridgerton and The Crown should make sure to stop by the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, which Netflix used in both shows. Its expansive courtyard and intricately decorated Painted Hall are particularly striking – you may also recognise them from Daniel Craig’s third outing as James Bond in Skyfall. You’ll also be able to visit the Cutty Sark, an imposing 19th-century ship, and visit the Prime Meridian Line – the reference for Greenwich Mean Time – in Greenwich Park. For a bit of modernity after all that history, stay amid the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, just across the river – the sleek Lincoln Plaza London, Curio Collection by Hilton is an excellent choice.
With Hilton, you’ll not only be within walking distance of the city’s best attractions and set locations – you’ll also be treated to a stay worthy of a film star. The brand has close to 50 hotels in the area, so you’ll be spoilt for choice regardless of which film sets you’re hoping to visit. Whether you’re in the cool, contemporary Lincoln Plaza London, Curio Collection by Hilton or the charming Victorian Hilton London Hyde Park, you’ll find Hilton’s service and facilities second to none. With great in-house restaurants, friendly staff and comfortable rooms, London’s Hilton hotels make an award-winning lineup.
Below, we’ve gathered some of the most iconic quotes from the above films set in London, but can you guess which each is from?
Discover more set-jetting destinations across the UK and Ireland at hilton.com