London is one of the most filmed cities in the world, and it’s no wonder! With its vibrant energy and stories hidden around every corner, the British capital has featured in hundreds of classic cinematic productions. Here’s a list of films where London isn’t just a backdrop, but a character in its own right.
1. Mary Poppins (1964) and Mary Poppins Returns (2018)
The famous nanny who descends from the skies has earned her London residency – check her out taking flight with her umbrella at Leicester Square! Although the original Mary Poppins was filmed almost entirely in a studio, it carries the essence of the city from the very first scenes. Cherry Tree Lane, Bert’s whimsical park, the elegant townhouses, and the terraced rooftops bring to life a magical London, steeped in history and imagination. Over half a century later, Disney brought the magic back with Mary Poppins Returns! This time, the iconic nanny, played by Emily Blunt, returns to the Banks household to look after their children. Big Ben, the Bank of England, lantern-lit embankments and leafy London parks once again provide the backdrop for a story that blends nostalgia with modern charm.
Top tip: To find out how the film was made, practically how it “flew” from P.L. Travers’ pages directly onto Disney’s screen, I recommend watching Saving Mr. Banks with Tom Hanks and Emma Thompson in the main roles. All movies are available on Disney plus!
2. Harry Potter film series (2001-2011)
London was one of J.K. Rowling’s greatest inspirations when creating Harry Potter. From the bustling platforms of King’s Cross Station to the shadowy alleys of Diagon Alley, the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden corners make a perfect backdrop for the magic adventures of Harry Potter and friends. Across the entire film series, audiences get glimpses of real-life London locations and fantastical, imaginative settings filled with mystery and magic.
If you want to dive deeper into Harry’s magical universe, I recommend the Fantastic Beasts film series! Watch the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts series on MAX!
3. 101 Dalmatians (1996), 102 Dalmatians (2000) and Cruella (2021)
This cinematic trilogy is all about puppies and a ruthless fashion designer! The classic Disney animated story depicts an elegant London with its Regent Park where dogs and people come to play, to the bustling streets filled with red buses and black. The 102 Dalmatians, brought to life brilliantly by Glenn Close, adds a fresh spirit and a new vision to the classic animation. Set in London during the punk rock movement of the 1970s, Cruella is about Estella Miller, a fashion designer, as she becomes the notorious fashion designer known as Cruella de Vil. Although the antagonist’s profession and obsession with Dalmatian fur are anything but pleasant, these films are exactly what you need if you’re looking to laugh and have fun with the little ones. They’re not violent, they’re full of adorable puppies, humour and fantastic costumes. All movies are available on Disney plus!
- 101 Dalmatians, The Musical at Eventim Apollo is part of Kids Week theatre offer this summer. Adult and child tickets from £34.50
4. Paddington
No London top list would be complete without its most iconic bear! From the heart-warming film adaptations with his unforgettable appearance having tea with Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham palace to his many adventures in the big city, Paddington Bear has become a true marmalade‑loving mascot of London. Discovered at Paddington Station (which gives him his name), the little bear is taken in by the kind‑hearted Brown family, and makes No. 32 Windsor Gardens his residence. From here we follow his adventures across London and beyond – across three film versions to date with most recent Paddington 3 released earlier this year!
Watch the Paddington movies on Netflix or Amazon Prime Video UK!
5. Enola Holmes movies (2020-2022)
If you’re passionate about Sherlock Holmes stories and want to share that passion with the little ones, introduce them to Enola Holmes (played by Millie Bobby Brown), the spirited younger sister of the world’s most famous detective. When her mother (Helena Bonham Carter) mysteriously disappears, Enola sets out on a daring mission of her own. Her journey takes us through Victorian London, train rides, secret codes and friendships, turning the story into a playful adventure for both young and old. After the huge success of the first film, Netflix released a sequel in 2022, and with a third instalment currently filming, the trilogy is well on its way (very Netflix indeed!).
6. The War of the Worlds
The classic tale of a Martian invasion set in Edwardian England is a perfect blend of tension, drama and historic atmosphere, complete with impressive costumes and sets. While the Tom Cruise 2005 version of the film is based in America, the BBS short series released in 2019 brings back Victorian London to the small screen. The series offers a fresh perspective on H.G. Wells’ novel, focusing on people’s reactions and their fight to survive in a world torn apart.
- The War of the Worlds: The Immersive Experience invites you to step right into the heart of the Martian invasion in a unique show blending interactive theatre, virtual reality, holograms and 5D effects.
- Buy The War of the Worlds book by H.G. Wells from Amazon
7. Sherlock (TV series)
The modern reinterpretation of Sherlock Holmes, starring Benedict Cumberbatch in the lead role, brings a contemporary London to the forefront: vibrant, fast-paced, and full of mystery. While the action is set in the 21st century, the BBC series makes countless nods to the classic Victorian and Edwardian Holmes from Arthur Conan Doyle’s stories. The brilliant detective and his loyal companion, Dr John Watson, live at the iconic 221B Baker Street, with many scenes filmed on location in London, alongside sets built in the BBC studios. The series is available on BBC iPlayer
- Visit the official home of Sherlock Holmes in London
- Buy Sherlock Holmes Series Complete Collection 10 Books Set by Arthur Conan Doyle from Amazon
8. Stormbreaker
The adventures of Alex Rider, the teenager recruited by the secret services, come to the screen in 2006 with the successful adaptation of Anthony Horowitz’s novel Stormbreaker. Set in contemporary London and featuring numerous spectacular locations across the United Kingdom, the story, though placed in the present, retains the hallmark of British-style thriller and suspense, at times reminiscent of the James Bond universe. Watch out for the epic horse ride through Hyde Park towards central London’s landmarks!
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