H oping to hang out at locations used in films like Harry Potter, Notting Hill and Neverland while you’re visiting in London? Then you’ll be delighted to know that we have identified some lovely budget hotels near those famous movie locations on your “must see” list!
Notting Hill
Although you won’t find the Travel Book Company where Hugh Grant meets Julia Roberts on Portobello Road, (it’s actually around the corner at 13-15 Blenheim Crescent), this legendary street is a favorite stop for movie fans since it’s the background for most of the scenes in the film. Visitors who want to explore Notting Hill find the Hotel Bluebells is an ideal location, just a block away and in a much quieter neighborhood. Nestle into this fashionable restored 18th century Victorian building that’s close to Underground Tube stations and in walking distance of Piccadilly Circus, Hyde Park and Westbourne Park Grove. Rooms in this family-run hotel have private baths, Wi-Fi, cozy beds and complimentary breakfast.
Four Weddings and a Funeral
If you thought you’d seen the setting for of the second wedding in this movie before, you’re right; the Old Royal Naval College has been used for dozens of movies including The Madness of King George, The Golden Compass and even the new Bond movie Skyfall. Make yourself comfortable at The Antigallican Hotel in a nearby neighborhood where the rooms have self-catering facilities, washing machines and free Wi-Fi. Choose an inexpensive dorm room or a twin, single, double or triple room with shared or private bathrooms. The friendly staff will happily help you catch the bus to the O2 Arena (Millenium Dome) or point out great shopping venues you can walk to in Greenwich.
Harry Potter
Long before Harry Potter discovered how to catch the train to Hogwarts at Kings Cross Station, fiction writers have considered it “the place” for supernatural encounters, like Alan Moore’s “League of Extraordinary Gentlemen: Century” where it is a vortex of magical energy. Visitors today are charmed to find that between gates nine and 10 there is a trolley half sticking out of the wall where platform 9 ¾ should be, making for an excellent photo opportunity. Just 100 meters away is the Elmwood Hotel, a cozy and affordable hotel with a friendly staff and ensuite bathrooms. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, ensuite coffee / tea facilities, LCD digital TV and a delicious free breakfast each morning.
Finding Neverland
Remember the park bench where playwright JM Barrie (Johnny Depp) meets Sylvia Llewelyn Davies (Kate Winslet) and engages her children in imaginary games? Well, you can sit on that very same bench at the Kensington Gardens at the western end of Hyde Park. As the name suggests, the Lord Kensington Hotel is in the very same neighborhood and offers sparkling clean rooms with private baths, satellite TV and tea/coffee making facilities. Start your day with a complimentary breakfast in their lovely dining room before heading out to explore the gardens or walk to the famous Museum Mile where you’ll find the Victoria and Albert Museum and the British Natural History Museum.
