Some people head to London to see it’s world-famous attractions, whether it’s the London Eye or Tower Bridge. History buffs and culture vultures flock to the British capital to visit its enviable collection of museums, art galleries and historical sights.
Others still come to stock up on designer and boutique goods.
But there are those out there who visit London to follow in the footsteps of their favourite on-screen actors and characters.
With London providing the backdrop for big-screen blockbusters and period drama smash hits, why wouldn’t they?
In no particular order, here’s our list of TV and movie tours in London that you’d be mad to miss out on. Some are free, other’s cost a modest fee (but we promise they’re all worth it!)
Harry Potter Studio Tour
Harry Potter and the gang are undoubtedly the world’s most famous masters of witchcraft and wizardry. As luck would have it, countless scenes were shot on set right here in London. Leave the muggle world behind and walk in the footsteps of the world most famous wizard on the Harry Potter Studio Tour, where you’ll see iconic sets such as the Great Hall and Forbidden Forest, original character costumes and even have the opportunity to fly a (virtual) broomstick across London!
Harry Potter Walking Tour
While we’re on the subject of Harry Potter, we’d be remiss not to give the Harry Potter Walking Tour a mention. Embark on this adventure, and you’ll see even more of the real-life scenes that featured in the films, from the entrances to the Ministry of Magic and the Leaky Cauldron, to Platform 9¾ and the Millenium Bridge famously destroyed by Death Eaters.
Downtown Abbey Tour
Witchcraft and wizardry a tad over the top for you? How about the glitz and glamour of Downton Abbey. The sleepy village of Bampton – nestled in the beautiful English countryside – provides the backdrop for many locations from the incredibly popular TV series.
Whilst technically not in London, you can still visit Bampton on our tour of Blenheim Palace & the Cotswolds which departs from Central London. Along the way, you’ll see St. Michael’s and All Angels, a 12th-century parish church in the centre of town, Isobel Crawley’s home and numerous other filming locations. To top it off, we’ll show you around the unremittingly beautiful surroundings of the Cotswolds.
The Crown Film Locations Tour
Take a glimpse behind-the-scenes of another hit series, The Crown, on our fantastic Crown Film Locations Tour. In a luxury vehicle of your choosing, we’ll take you to Kensington Palace, Lancaster House – used as the exterior of Buckingham Palace -Southwark Cathedral, Blythe House, Westminster Abbey and many more real-life filming locations.
Sherlock Holmes Free Walking Tour
Let’s conclude our list with a tour that won’t cost you a penny. Though you may have to familiarise yourself with Google Maps and the Underground network. Type the following locations into Maps, and you’ll be able to follow in the footsteps of the world’s favourite fictional detective: 221 Baker Street (the real address of Holmes’s abode); Speedy’s Café (featured in the BBC TV Series); Russel Square Gardens (as seen in the first episode); and The Old Bailey.
Interested in exploring more of London’s real-life iconic sights and attractions? Our London Tours are just the ticket. Embark on a journey into London’s incredible history with an expert guide as they lead you from the ramparts of the Tower of London to the gates of Buckingham Palace and cloisters of Westminster Abbey.
