As one of the world’s biggest film-making locations, it’s no wonder why London is a hub for movie lovers. With its rich history, vibrant culture and stunning architecture, the city offers an extensive array of activities for cinephiles to explore. From iconic film locations and movie-themed immersive experiences to candlelit concerts, there’s no shortage of options for movie enthusiasts. So, if simply watching your favourite films doesn’t quite hit the spot for you, you can take it a step further with this fantastic guide of film-related things to do. Whether you’re a film buff or simply love the silver screen, get ready to discover the best plans for your next adventure in the city.
1. Explore a magical place at Avora: New World Cocktail Experience
Speaking of otherworldly adventures, Avora: New World Cocktail Experience whisks you away into a magical realm, brought to life by incredible set design, live actors and mesmerising projections. Your journey begins in a laboratory where you’ll be equipped with a jumpsuit and given a colour-changing cocktail to acclimatise you to the new world, next you’ll enter a mystical woodland for your second concoction and then, as night falls, you’ll forage for spirit-filled ‘Juniper Berries’ and sip your third cocktail by the colourful glow of bioluminescent flora and fauna. Let’s just say, if you loved the vibrant world of Avatar, you’ll definitely love the world of Avora.
2. Step into the shoes of Marty Mcfly at the Back In Time Exhibition
Buckle up Back To The Future fans, this exhibition is for you. Featuring Europe’s largest collection of memorabilia from the franchise – everything from costumes and props to behind-the-scenes interviews with the cast and crew – this is a wondrous window into the world of Marty McFly and Doc Brown. Forget decked-out DeLorean time machines and plutonium, you’ll be transported back in time as soon as you step through the doors in Camden Market Hawley Wharf. The Back In Time Exhibition opens on November 26 and promises a memorable experience with photo ops – fulfil your dream of hopping on a hoverboard – interactive displays and even an uncanny replica of the DeLorean itself.
3. Enjoy a cinematic story in the theatre with The Lion King
We all know the tale of Simba’s journey to reclaim his throne – seen it told through striking animated adventures as a child – but there’s nothing quite like experiencing the story unfolding on stage. An award-winning musical, The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre is a spellbinding piece of theatre, enchanting audience members of all ages with powerful vocal performances, incredible props, stunning set design and songs you can’t help but sing along to. I mean, try saying ‘Can You Feel The Love Tonight?’ in monotone with absolutely no melody – it’s impossible.
4. Celebrate 100 years of Warner Bros. With An Iconic Candlelit Concert
If you are looking to celebrate the best of cinema and TV, then Candlelight: 100 Years of Warner Bros. is just the ticket. You’ll be in film heaven, listening to the iconic songs from Friends, Casablanca, Wonder Women and many more. The concert takes place at the centuries-old Southwark Cathedral, where a sea of candles will illuminate the historic architecture and talented musicians with a soft, flickering glow. Sit back and relax as a string quartet gives these familiar cinematic songs a stunning acoustic twist.
5. Follow in Harry Potter’s footsteps with a visit to Platform 9 ¾
A trip to Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross station is a must for any Potterheads. Make sure to grab your cloak and charge your phone up beforehand as this is a prime photo opportunity; just look out for the luggage trolley half embedded in the wall (and just pre-warn you there’s occasionally a queue, especially in the festive period). Once you’ve got the golden shot of you about to embark on your journey to Hogwarts you can also swing by the gift shop, reminiscent of Olliver’s Wand Emporium, to stock up on xmas gifts for like-minded friends and family members.
6. Fall in love with Pretty Woman: The Musical
Have you not seen this much-loved musical yet? Big mistake, huge. Pretty Woman: The Musical is currently lighting up the stage at The Savoy Theatre in the heart of London. You’ll get to experience the classic rom-com we all know and love live on stage, with an added dash of powerful vocals and catchy songs that will have you grinning from ear to ear throughout. Thanks to an award-winning creative team, this revival of one of Hollywood’s most iconic 80’s romances is sure to have you falling in love with the story all over again.
7. See where stories are brought to life on this Film & TV Location Tour
London is a hotspot for filming, with its collection of historic architecture, bustling streets and iconic landmarks serving as a perfect backdrop to unlikely romances, witty comedies and slick spy capers. To explore one particularly cinematic spot look no further than this tour of the Old Royal Naval College, one of the world’s most popular filming locations. Over the course of 60 minutes you’ll find out secrets from behind the scenes, live out moments from films such as Four Weddings And A Funeral and Thor: The Dark World, and even walk the very halls Meryl Streep once strode through as the iron lady.
8. Treat your film-loving friend or family member to a gift card
If you fancy spreading a little holiday cheer this Christmas why not give your loved one a Fever gift card? With it they can go to one of the many fantastic film-related experiences that can be found on the Fever website – including the aforementioned Avora: New World Cocktail Experience and Candlelight: 100 Years of Warner Bros.
9. Take a selfie with the film stars at Madame Tussauds
Ok so they might not be the real deal, but some of the waxwork figures can be pretty uncanny and may even fool a few friends when you post a photo on Instagram; at the very least it warrants a double-take. If you’re one to watch a film for the actors starring in it, then this may be the closest you’ll get to the stars of the big screen: see how you measure up to The Rock, bust out your best heroic pose in the Marvel Hall of Heroes and take a seat beside wise-cracking Han Solo.
10. “May the force be with you” at a Star Wars Exhibition
Fans of the Star Wars movies won’t want to miss the largest Star Wars fan exhibition. The Fans Strike Back Exhibition gives you the opportunity to see hundreds of unique collectables and figurines, famous costumes, life-size figures, lightsabers, blasters, helmets, and so much more. Have some fun with the green screen and take pictures using your chosen background, and immerse yourself in the Star Wars Universe for an unforgettable experience in London.
11. Relive the story of Baby and Johnny at Dirty Dancing
If you are like the rest of us and find yourself rewatching this cult-classic film, you can see the iconic film being brought to life at the Dominion Theatre. Experienced already by millions worldwide, this sensational show not only features the drama and romance we all adore, but it also includes hit tracks from the movie soundtrack, including “Hungry Eyes”, “(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life”, and “Hey! Baby”,”Do You Love Me?”.
12. Top it all off with a stay in a film-themed hotel
If you really want to go all in on a film lover’s day in London, then you better book a stay at a hotel to suit the occasion. The Wizard Chambers should be top of the list for any Potterheads. Sequestered away down a portrait-lined passageway in the lower ground floor of the Georgian House Hotel, these bewitching rooms are decked out with velvet curtains, cauldrons and many charming curiosities that will make it feel like you have stepped inside the films themselves. Alternatively, ibis Styles London Ealing has paid tribute to nearby Ealing Studios with budget-friendly prices and film-themed decor – think corridor carpets covered in film quotes, Hollywood-style bulb lights and cinematic cocktails such as ‘Some Like It Hot’.