MOVIES

1. Notting Hill

This is a must-see if you’re going to be visiting London. It takes place in one of the prettiest neighborhoods in London, and Hugh Grant plays the endearing, British, travel bookshop owner. Need I say more? It’s really a timeless classic.

Can be found on: Starz.

2. Harry Potter (All 8 movies)

You simply cannot have a London movie list without Harry Potter. Though all the movies are worth watching because J.K. Rowling is very much a genius, the first, fifth, sixth, and seventh movies have scenes with iconic London landmarks. There are numerous walking tours for the HP films throughout London, as well as the Warner Bros. Studios where you can see actual sets and props from the movies. Wicked.

Can be found on: HBO, Amazon

3. Paddington (1 & 2)

This movie about an adorable Peruvian, talking bear who happens to cause mishaps wherever he goes, should be watched by anyone planning on visiting London. With scenes at lots of London landmarks, it’s a great one to research what you think should be on your list of places to see. Also, his enthusiasm for this great city is contagious, and it’s nearly impossible to not want Paddington to become a part of your family as well.

Can be found on: Paddington 1 on Netflix, Paddington 2 on Amazon

4. Love Actually

Though haters may say this has no place on this list because it’s a Christmas movie, I say this film is a must-watch all year-round. Not only does it have an amazing cast, Hugh Grant, Collin Firth, and Keira Knightley to name a few, it’s exceptionally heart-warming. Naturally, a complete hit with the sappy movie-lovers, like myself. Also, it shows London decked out for Christmas, which only increases its stellar beauty.

Can be found on: Netflix

5. Bridget Jones’s Diary & Bridget Jones’s Baby (sequel)

These films are ridiculously witty and a definite must-watch. Another exceptional cast with Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Renee Zellweger, and the introduction of Patrick Dempsey in the sequel, and lots of rom-com humor set throughout London.

Can be found on: Bridget Jones’s Diary on HBO, Hulu & Amazon, Bridget Jones’s Baby on Netflix

6. Skyfall

It is essential to have a James Bond movie on a London movie list, so I present to you Skyfall. I just love a good British spy movie, and this one does not disappoint, especially with its incredible views of London throughout the film. Also, Adele’s song for the movie is epic and what’s more British then Adele?

Can be found on: Amazon

7. What a Girl Wants

An American girl goes to London to let her dad know she exists causing all sorts of drama with his uncompromising, aristocratic family. While it could be sort of relatable if you’re an American going to London for the first time, it wins with its charming humor and great shots of London. Definitely a must-watch before you head across the pond.

Can be found on: Amazon

TV

8. Sherlock Holmes (Seasons 1-4)

Even if you’re not a fan of the Sherlock Holmes stories or if you’ve never read them, this show is worth a binge-watch. Benedict Cumberbatch plays the perfect quirky Sherlock Holmes, and you’ll be fascinated with this interesting twist on your typical crime-solving show set in London.

Can be found on: Netflix

9. Call the Midwife (Seasons 1-6)

This is a different, but insightful look into East London in the 1950s and 1960s. It steps away from the more affluent areas of London and expresses the struggles of the poorer London families through the care of the expectant mothers by the midwives. It’s based on a midwife’s actual memoirs, and though it seems odd at first, it is well worth watching if you want to delve into other parts of London’s culture and history.

Can be found on: Netflix

10. Peaky Blinders (Seasons 1-4)

Based on a real, powerful gang in Birmingham in the early 1900s, this is a fascinating look into the darker side of British culture. Though it doesn’t take place in London, it still worth watching because it’s gripping, intense, and it has an incredible cast.

Can be found on: Netflix

11. The Crown (Seasons 1-2)

If you’re obsessed with the royals, or even find them slightly interesting, then this is a must. It follows the life of Queen Elizabeth II, and it is fascinating. With drama and scandal, you may have a hard time not binge-watching both seasons.

Can be found on: Netflix

12. The Inbetweeners  (Seasons 1-3)

We know this one leads to a bit of crude humour, but The Inbetweeners captured the life of 4 friends finishing up their final years of school before heading to Uni. It gives a dramatic and rather wild look into teen life before venturing off into the real world. A bit of fun to watch and spot the difference between English and American high school before crossing over to this side of the pond. If you find yourself loving this seasons, make sure to check out The Inbetweeners movies 1 & 2 to round it out.

Can be found on: Netflix, Hulu

13. The Great British Bake Off (Seasons 1-8)

If you love cooking, baking and all things sweet then The Great British Bake Off is a must! Watch real bakers create authentic English desserts and compete for a grand prize.  The perfect combination of English accents, cupcakes and some lovely judges! Plus, learn a bit about the sweet side of England.

Can be found on: Netflix