Romantic ComedyDrama

🎬 Where Was Notting Hill Filmed? Complete London Location Guide

1999

Roger Michell

Added January 15, 2024

5 Locations

Discover the charming London spots that brought Notting Hill to life. Explore iconic film sets and plan your own romantic tour!

About 🎬 Where Was Notting Hill Filmed? Complete London Location Guide

🎬 Where Was Notting Hill Filmed? Complete London Location Guide

Ever dreamt of bumping into a movie star in a quaint bookshop, or finding your soulmate amidst the stalls of a bustling London market? If so, then Notting Hill isn't just a film; it's a romantic aspiration! This beloved 1999 classic swept us off our feet with its charming tale of an ordinary bookshop owner falling for a Hollywood superstar.

Official movie poster of Notting Hill featuring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts

But beyond the heartwarming story, Notting Hill holds a special place in cinematic history for its enchanting use of real-world locations. The vibrant streets, quirky shops, and picturesque gardens of West London weren't just a backdrop; they were integral to the film's undeniable charm, almost acting as characters themselves.

What makes these locations truly special for film fans is their authenticity. Many of the places you see in the movie are real, accessible spots you can visit today. It's a chance to step directly into William Thacker's world and relive those iconic moments.

So, grab your well-worn copy of Travel Weekly and get ready! Join us on a virtual, and soon-to-be real, adventure through the cinematic streets of London. You're about to discover the magic behind one of the most beloved romantic comedies of all time.

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🗺️ Major Filming Locations

🎬 142 Portobello Road - The Notting Hill Bookshop Inspiration 📚

Scenic view of 142 Portobello Road showing the iconic blue sign of The Notting Hill Bookshop

🏛️ The Location

While the actual "Travel Bookshop" that inspired the film was just down the road at 13-15 Blenheim Crescent, 142 Portobello Road is often associated with the film due to its proximity and bookshop history. It was originally an antique shop, then briefly a shoe shop, before becoming "The Notting Hill Bookshop" (a general bookstore) in 2011, riding on the film's fame.

🎥 In the Film

This specific building didn't feature prominently as William's shop in the movie, as the film's interior scenes were shot on a set, and exterior establishing shots focused more broadly on the Portobello Road area. However, it sits right in the heart of William's world, capturing the quaint, independent spirit of the area.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: 142 Portobello Road, Notting Hill, London, W11 2DZ, England

🕒 Hours: Mon-Sat: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Sun: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM (check seasonal variations)

💰 Admission: Free to browse

🌐 Website: thenottinghillbookshop.co.uk

💡 Pro Tip: Don't confuse this with the original "The Travel Bookshop" at Blenheim Crescent. Both are worth a visit for different reasons, but this one leans into the movie's charm directly. 🎬 Fun Fact: The original "The Travel Bookshop" (now 'The Notting Hill Bookshop' again, but specialising in travel) was indeed a quirky, niche store, just like William's fictional one.

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🎬 280 Westbourne Park Road - William's Blue Door Flat 💙

Stunning architecture of 280 Westbourne Park Road featuring the famous blue door

🏛️ The Location

This is the most iconic residential filming location, home to William Thacker and his eccentric flatmate, Spike. It's a charming, private terraced house recognized instantly by its distinctive blue front door. The area surrounding it is a quintessential Notting Hill residential street, leafy and picturesque.

🎥 In the Film

The blue door serves as the entrance to William's rather chaotic flat, where many humorous and touching moments unfold, especially with Anna and Spike. It's where Anna hides from the paparazzi and experiences a taste of William's ordinary life.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: 280 Westbourne Park Road, Notting Hill, London, W11 1EH, England

🕒 Hours: Private residence; exterior viewing only

💰 Admission: Free (from the street)

🌐 Website: N/A (private residence)

💡 Pro Tip: Remember this is a private home. Please be respectful of the residents and their privacy when taking photos. A quick snapshot from the pavement is generally fine. 🎬 Fun Fact: The original blue door was actually auctioned off for charity. The door you see now is a replacement, though still famously blue!

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🎬 The Ritz London - High Tea with Anna ☕

Beautiful view of The Ritz London showcasing its grand exterior

🏛️ The Location

The Ritz London is one of the world's most luxurious and renowned hotels, steeped in history and grandeur. Located in Piccadilly, it epitomizes classic British elegance and has been a preferred spot for royalty and celebrities for over a century.

🎥 In the Film

This opulent setting is where William and Anna go for an awkward, yet incredibly charming, high tea. It's the scene where the media descend upon them, highlighting the stark contrast between Anna's celebrity life and William's mundane existence, and leading to the hilarious "I'm just a girl, standing in front of a boy" monologue rewrite.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: 150 Piccadilly, St. James's, London, W1J 9BR, England

🕒 Hours: Varies by service (e.g., Afternoon Tea sittings)

💰 Admission: Afternoon Tea from approx. £70 per person; other services vary

🌐 Website: theritzlondon.com

💡 Pro Tip: If you want to experience The Ritz, book their famous Afternoon Tea far in advance. There's a strict dress code (jacket and tie for gentlemen), so dress to impress! 🎬 Fun Fact: The scene where William accidentally books their 12th-anniversary high tea at The Ritz captures the overwhelming nature of Anna's fame and William's endearing awkwardness.

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🎬 Portobello Road Market - Seasonal Strolls 🍎

Impressive facade of Portobello Road Market displaying a vibrant array of stalls and visitors

🏛️ The Location

Portobello Road Market is one of London's most famous street markets, stretching over two miles. It's a kaleidoscope of antiques, vintage clothing, street food, and fresh produce. Saturdays are its busiest days when the full market is in swing, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world.

🎥 In the Film

The market is virtually a character itself, providing the backdrop for William's daily life and reflecting the passage of time. We see him stroll through its vibrant stalls during various seasons, culminating in the iconic "Whoopsie Daisy" encounter with Anna.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Portobello Road, Notting Hill, London, W11 1AF, England

🕒 Hours: Main market day (full): Saturday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM; quieter sections open Mon-Fri

💰 Admission: Free to explore

🌐 Website: portobelloroad.co.uk

💡 Pro Tip: Visit on a Saturday for the full, bustling experience, but if you prefer fewer crowds, go on a weekday when the antique shops are open, and the atmosphere is more relaxed. 🎬 Fun Fact: The famous opening sequence, showing William walking through the market as seasons change, was filmed over real change of seasons. Special effects were used to make the fruit and vegetable stalls instantly appear and disappear.

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🎬 The Coronet Theatre - Premiere Night Drama 🎭

Authentic street scene of The Coronet Theatre capturing its historic cinema marquee

🏛️ The Location

Originally a theatre in the late 19th century, The Coronet Theatre (then known as The Coronet Cinema) was a grand picture palace for much of the 20th century. After a period as a cinema, it has since been reimagined as a multi-arts venue, hosting live music, theatre, and comedy.

🎥 In the Film

This historic venue was used for the exterior shots of Anna Scott's science fiction film premiere, with the paparazzi and adoring fans creating a frenzy outside. It's here that William, dressed in a rather awkward suit, navigates the glitzy world of Hollywood.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: 103 Notting Hill Gate, Notting Hill, London, W11 3LB, England

🕒 Hours: Varies by event schedule

💰 Admission: Varies by event

🌐 Website: thecoronettheatre.com (Check current status/use, as it's been undergoing changes)

💡 Pro Tip: Check their website to see if there's a show or event running during your visit. Even if not, it's a great spot for a photo-op against its historic facade. 🎬 Fun Fact: While the exterior was filmed at The Coronet Theatre, the interior scenes for the premiere party (where William overhears unfavorable comments about Anna) were filmed at the Savoy Hotel.

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🎬 Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

Notting Hill's charm isn't just on screen; it extends to the fascinating stories from behind the camera. The filmmakers went to great lengths to capture the authentic spirit of London, making the production a true labor of love.

🎭 Director's Vision

🎯 Location Strategy: Director Roger Michell and screenwriter Richard Curtis were committed to using real Notting Hill locations to ground the fantastical love story in reality. They wanted the neighborhood to feel like its own character, full of genuine charm and quirks.

🎨 Visual Style: The film's visual style leaned into natural light and the existing beauty of Notting Hill. The "Whoopsie Daisy" market sequence, filmed over a year, epitomizes this, allowing the changing seasons to punctuate William's personal journey.

🎪 Production Highlights

🎬 The Blue Door's Journey: The famous blue door at 280 Westbourne Park Road was a genuine feature of the house. After filming, it was sold at auction, and the current door is painted the same iconic shade.

🎭 Authentic Market: The Portobello Road Market scenes were filmed early on busy Saturdays to minimize disruption, but still involved coordinating with hundreds of real stallholders and shoppers.

🎨 Location Homage: The actual 'The Travel Bookshop' was at 13-15 Blenheim Crescent, and the film used its exterior for a short shot. The main interiors of William's shop were built on a set.

🎯 Hugh Grant's Local Insight: Hugh Grant, who lived nearby, was reportedly able to give valuable insights into the local area, adding to the film's authentic feel.

🌟 Cast & Crew Stories

😄 Improvised Gold: Hugh Grant improvised the hilarious "Whoopsie Daisy" line after bumping into Julia Roberts at the market, showcasing his natural comedic timing.

😮 Julia Roberts' Hesitation: Julia Roberts candidly admitted to initially turning down the role of Anna Scott multiple times, only agreeing after being captivated by Richard Curtis's script.

🎉 Rescuing Spike: The character of Spike, played by Rhys Ifans, was repeatedly considered for removal from the script during development, but thankfully his unique charm made him indispensable.

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🗺️ Plan Your Visit

Ready to walk in William and Anna's footsteps? London's Notting Hill is wonderfully accessible and perfect for a cinematic exploration.

🏨 Where to Stay

💰 Budget: The Portobello Hotel Notting Hill - from $150/night - Charming boutique hotel, often listed in Notting Hill, though slightly pricier than budget, it offers good value for the area's vibe.

🏛️ Mid-Range: The Laslett - from $300/night - A stylish, contemporary hotel spread across five Victorian townhouses right in Notting Hill, near the tube station.

✨ Luxury: The Mandrake Hotel - from $500+/night - While not in Notting Hill proper, this five-star hotel in Fitzrovia offers an incredibly unique and luxurious stay with easy access to Notting Hill via public transport.

🚗 Getting Around

🚇 Metro: The London Underground (Tube) is your best friend. The Notting Hill Gate station (Central, District, and Circle Lines) is the main hub for accessing the area.

🚗 Car: Driving in Notting Hill is generally not recommended due to narrow streets, heavy traffic, and limited, expensive parking. Stick to public transport or walking.

🚶 Walking: Many of the key Notting Hill locations are within a comfortable walking distance of each other, making an enjoyable self-guided walking tour very feasible.

📸 Photo Tips

🌅 Best Times: Early mornings on Saturdays before the market gets too crowded, or weekdays, are ideal for quieter photos of the streets and blue door. For the market's vibrant energy, visit on a busy Saturday.

📱 Instagram Spots: Don't miss a selfie with the blue door at 280 Westbourne Park Road, the colorful houses on Portobello Road, and amidst the antique stalls.

🎬 Movie Moments: Recreate William's stroll through the Portobello Road Market. If you're feeling bold, try a photo recreating the "whoopsie daisy" moment (just be mindful of other shoppers!).

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❓ Quick Answers

🎬 Is this based on a true story?

No, Notting Hill is not based on a true story. However, screenwriter Richard Curtis did draw inspiration from the real Notting Hill area he lived in, and the concept of an ordinary person dating a celebrity.

🗺️ Can I visit all locations in one day?

Yes, you can absolutely visit most of the key Notting Hill locations in one day, as they are relatively close to each other. The Ritz is a bit further afield in central London but easily reachable by Tube.

💰 How much should I budget?

A budget for a day trip to Notting Hill can range from free (for walking and window shopping) to moderate (if you buy food from the market and visit a café), to expensive (if you plan special experiences like high tea at The Ritz). A realistic daily budget for food, travel, and some light shopping might be £50-100 per person.

📱 Are there guided tours?

Yes, several independent tour companies offer themed Notting Hill walking tours that specifically highlight filming locations from the movie, often led by knowledgeable local guides. A quick online search will reveal options!

🎭 When was this filmed?

Principal photography for Notting Hill took place primarily in the spring and summer of 1998, with some specific scenes requiring capturing the passage of seasons over a longer period.

🌍 Is Notting Hill safe for tourists?

Yes, Notting Hill is generally considered a very safe and affluent area of London. As with any popular tourist destination, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded market areas.

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🎬 Ready for Your Cinematic Adventure?

There you have it! A comprehensive journey through the iconic streets and hidden gems of Notting Hill, bringing to life the magic of one of cinema's most beloved romantic comedies. From William's charmingly chaotic flat to the bustling energy of Portobello Road Market, each location holds a piece of cinematic history waiting for you to discover.

So, why not turn your next London trip into a movie-themed adventure? Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere, recreate your favorite scenes, and perhaps even find your own fairy-tale moment amidst the charming backdrop of Notting Hill. Share your photos with us and tag #WhereWasItFilmed!

Year Released

1999

Director

Roger Michell

Filming Locations

5 locations

Behind the Scenes

Roger Michell's vision for Notting Hill was simple yet profound: to create a romantic comedy that felt as authentic and charming as its namesake London borough. The director emphasized natural lighting and real-world backdrops, wanting Notting Hill itself to shine as a character in the film. This approach ensured that the love story between a regular bookseller and a Hollywood superstar felt grounded, making the magic of their romance all the more believable against the backdrop of bustling markets and quiet residential streets. The production team worked closely with locals to capture the area's genuine, lived-in feel, bringing Richard Curtis's heartfelt script to life with genuine cinematic flair.

The iconic blue door of William's flat was a real door on a private residence, which later sold at auction.
The original 'The Travel Bookshop' at 13-15 Blenheim Crescent inspired William's store, though interiors were shot on a set.
Hugh Grant reportedly lived very close to the Notting Hill area during the film's production.
The famous 'Whoopsie Daisy' line spoken by William when he bumps into Anna at the market was improvised by Hugh Grant.
Julia Roberts initially turned down the role of Anna Scott several times, but was eventually convinced by Richard Curtis's script.
The film's opening sequence, showing William walking through Portobello Market through different seasons, was captured over a full year using a disguised camera.
Spike's character, brilliantly played by Rhys Ifans, was almost cut from the script due to pacing concerns, but test audiences loved him.
The Coronet Theatre, though used for a premiere in the film, was then a cinema and is now a vibrant arts venue.
A separate, private garden in Holland Park was used for the garden party sequence, not a Notting Hill street.
The final press conference scene was actually filmed at The Savoy Hotel in central London.
The real-life 'Notting Hill Bookshop' (formerly 'The Travel Bookshop') is still a popular destination for fans.
The film significantly boosted tourism to Notting Hill, helping to cement its status as a romantic destination.

Location Gallery

The Notting Hill Bookshop (Inspiration)

William's Blue Door House

The Ritz London

Portobello Road Market

The Coronet Theatre

Travel Tips

Best time to visit most of these locations is during spring or fall for mild weather.
Consider booking accommodations in advance, especially during tourist season.
Guided tours are available that cover The Notting Hill Bookshop (Inspiration), William's Blue Door House, The Ritz London in one day.