Have you ever watched a lavish historical drama or blockbuster action film and thought “I know that place”? If you’ve spotted familiar London landmarks on screen, chances are you’ve been seeing Greenwich – one of Hollywood’s favourite London locations hiding in plain sight.
Why Hollywood Loves Greenwich
What makes directors call “action” in Greenwich time and again? The answer is simple really. Few places offer such a perfect blend of history, grandeur, and versatility. From sweeping period dramas to futuristic thrillers, Greenwich’s architectural treasures and stunning landscapes have played countless roles on screen. The area’s well-preserved historic sites and scenic beauty really do provide the perfect backdrop for a wide range of film genres.
The majestic Old Royal Naval College has doubled as royal palaces, alien worlds, and Victorian London streets. The flowing curves of the River Thames have set the scene for naval adventures and dramatic escapes. Even Greenwich’s underground foot tunnel has served as the perfect setting for post-apocalyptic thrillers. With such versatility, it’s no wonder so many blockbusters have made Greenwich their temporary home.
Stars of the Screen: Greenwich’s Most Famous Appearances
So what films have actually used Greenwich? The list reads like a Hollywood A-list!
When Thor battled dark forces in Thor: The Dark World, he wasn’t really fighting in Asgard – he was in Greenwich. The Old Royal Naval College‘s magnificent colonnades and domes transformed effortlessly into an otherworldly setting for this Marvel adventure.
The same historic buildings became opulent royal quarters in Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, with the breathtaking Painted Hall standing in for a palatial throne room. Its elaborate ceiling and grand proportions make it easy to see why it’s a filmmaker’s dream.
Royal stories seem particularly drawn to Greenwich – and is it any wonder? The King’s Speech used the area to represent parts of Buckingham Palace, bringing Colin Firth’s Oscar-winning portrayal of King George VI to this historic setting. Period dramas find a natural home here too. Netflix’s The Crown has frequently used Greenwich to recreate historical events, while Bridgerton‘s Regency romance has flourished among its classical buildings. The Oscar-winning The Favourite brought Queen Anne’s court to life within these walls, its 18th-century story finding an authentic setting.
More recently, Disney’s Cruella showcased Greenwich’s iconic architecture as part of its stylish 1970s London backdrop, with Emma Stone’s fashion-forward villain strutting through these historic streets. And more contemporary films like The Dark Knight Rises have proven Greenwich’s versatility, with the College convincingly portraying a European café setting. Even zombie thriller 28 Weeks Later found the perfect apocalyptic atmosphere in the Greenwich Foot Tunnel.
With so many iconic scenes filmed here, visitors often find themselves experiencing déjà vu as they turn each corner.
Explore Famous Filming Locations in Greenwich
This sense of recognition is what makes a visit to Greenwich so special – the ability to literally walk in the footsteps of your favourite characters. Here’s where to start your cinematic journey:
- Old Royal Naval College – Often called “the most popular filming location in the world,” and for good reason. As you wander through its grounds, you’re traversing the same paths as characters from Sherlock Holmes, Les Misérables, and countless others. The Painted Hall is particularly worth seeing – its opulent baroque interiors have provided the backdrop for royal scenes in numerous productions.
- Greenwich Park and The Royal Observatory – Just a short walk uphill from the College, the observatory rewards you with the panoramic views of London that have appeared in many films. The park’s wide-open spaces and tree-lined avenues have set the scene for everything from romantic encounters to dramatic chases.
- Cutty Sark and The River Thames – Continuing your exploration riverside, the restored tea clipper and the riverside walk offer distinctly nautical settings that have added maritime flavour to many productions. Standing on the riverbank, you can easily imagine tall ships and period vessels sailing by, just as they appear in historical naval dramas.
- Eltham Palace – Venturing a bit further, a short journey from central Greenwich brings you to this Art Deco marvel that has served as a sophisticated setting for The Crown and Brideshead Revisited. Its unique blend of medieval and 1930s architecture provides filmmakers with something truly distinctive.
How to Explore Greenwich’s Filming Locations
Ready to discover Greenwich through a cinematic lens? There are several ways to enhance your experience:
- Join a guided walking tour that focuses specifically on filming locations, where knowledgeable guides will share behind-the-scenes stories and point out easily-missed details from your favourite productions.
- For those who prefer to move at their own pace, self-guided film trails let you focus on the movies and shows that interest you most. The Old Royal Naval College visitor centre offers maps highlighting where famous scenes were shot.
Time your visit right and you might catch special film exhibitions or events that celebrate Greenwich’s silver screen connections. These often include props, costumes, and insights into how filmmakers transform these historic spaces into whatever their stories demand. The Old Royal Naval College frequently hosts exhibitions showcasing its role in film and television.
Behind the Scenes at The Clarendon Hotel
When film crews descend on Greenwich, they need somewhere comfortable and convenient to base themselves. The Clarendon Hotel in nearby Blackheath has welcomed many actors and production teams over the years.
What makes it perfect for film professionals works equally well for movie enthusiasts. Its location just minutes from Greenwich’s main filming sites means you can easily visit multiple locations in a day. After hours of exploring film sets, you can retreat to the calm of Blackheath village – just as many film stars have done before you.
Make Your Stay a Cinematic Experience
Whether you’re a film buff eager to see where your favourite scenes were shot or simply looking for a different way to experience Greenwich’s beauty, a film-focused visit offers a unique perspective on this historic borough.
Make The Clarendon Hotel your base for the perfect Greenwich film location tour. After days spent tracing the footsteps of pirates, royalty, superheroes, and spies, you’ll return to comfort and tranquility – and perhaps spot the next film crew setting up for Greenwich’s next starring role!