Discover filming locations for Harry Potter, The Crown, and more this autumn/winter
At Leadenhall Market, I felt I should’ve been able to purchase a wand and quidditch broom of my own
Autumn and winter in the UK bring a unique charm to the country's cinematic landscapes, making it the perfect time to indulge in "set jetting"—the growing trend of travelling to filming locations featured in films, TV shows, and literature. The cooler months offer an added layer of atmosphere, with fewer crowds, crisp air, and a touch of seasonal magic, giving these iconic spots a fresh allure.
Having recently ventured to some of the south east’s most picturesque and cinematic locations, I’ve gathered a few personal highlights that show just how much there is to explore—and how film and literary magic can transport you. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a family, or just someone looking for a peaceful escape, these destinations have something for everyone.
London locations by rail
For those exploring the cinematic landscapes of London, Thameslink stations are ideally located for easy access:
Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich: The closest Thameslink station is London Bridge, from where you can take a quick journey on the DLR to Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich.
Scenes in the Square, Leicester Square: From London Blackfriars, it’s just a short Tube ride on the Northern Line to Leicester Square.
Leadenhall Market: London Blackfriars is also the closest Thameslink station, with easy access to the City via the Circle and District lines.
Travelling by train made it all hassle-free, whether it was escaping to the peaceful charm of St Albans or hopping between London’s iconic film spots.
London’s cinematic gems: where history and film collide
Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich
Standing in the grandeur of the Old Royal Naval College felt like stepping into another time. The peacefulness of the grounds made it the perfect spot to sit with a book, but the star of the show was the breathtaking Painted Hall. I could have easily spent hours lying beneath that ceiling, soaking in every detail, but the rest of London was calling! Fans of films like Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and Les Misérables will recognize these iconic surroundings, where sweeping historical dramas have unfolded.
Scenes in the square, Leicester Square
For a dose of nostalgia, Leicester Square's "Scenes in the Square" statues take you on a journey through film history, all in one square. Seeing characters like Bugs Bunny and Charlie Chaplin gave me all the feels, a delightful mix of childhood favourites and modern classics. This public art display is a must-see for movie lovers, and being so accessible, it's great for families or anyone with limited mobility looking for a light-hearted stop while exploring central London.
Leadenhall Market
As I walked through Leadenhall Market, the cold, crisp winter air mixed with the warm glow of the streetlights, transported me straight into the wizarding world of Harry Potter.
This market served as the filming location for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. The market is so stunning in real life, I felt I should’ve been able to purchase a wand and quidditch broom of my own. Butter beer, however, is sold at a cafe in the market, allowing you the perfect opportunity to live out your Harry Potter fantasies in the heart of London.
Leadenhall Market is one of London’s hidden gems, especially on the weekends when it quiets down—perfect for capturing photos of its intricate architecture without the weekday crowds. The market’s beautiful Victorian design is a must-see, whether you’re a Potterhead or just a fan of stunning spaces.
Exploring the cinematic charms of St Albans
Just a short trip from London, St Albans is another must-visit destination for set jetting enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of history and film magic.
Veer Dhara Tom Cruise mural
On my way from the train station, I stumbled upon a mural signed off by Tom Cruise outside Veer Dhara restaurant – a fun and unexpected reminder of St Albans' brush with Hollywood glamour. Although I didn’t have time to eat here, the menu looked delicious, and the mural gave the town an extra spark of movie magic.
St Albans Cathedral
As I stepped into St Albans Cathedral, I felt as if I had walked onto a set. This stunning building has appeared in The Crown, an episode of The Inbetweeners, and Johnny English, to name a few. Its grandeur and beauty made it easy to see why it’s been chosen for so many productions. Free to visit, the cathedral is right near the town centre and offers amazing architecture at every turn. The people here were incredibly friendly and eager to help, which made the experience even more memorable.
Verulamium Park
To finish my set jetting adventure in St Albans, I headed to Verulamium Park, which recently featured in Wonka. This peaceful park, with its Roman wall, stream, and lovely bridge, is a calming spot that feels worlds away from the hustle of city life. It’s the ideal place to wind down after a day of exploring—and it’s only a stone's throw from the cathedral. Whether you're a fan of the new Wonka movie starring gen-z heartthrob Timothee Chalamet or simply want to enjoy some natural beauty, this park offers a serene escape.
The train journey
Exploring with ease on Thameslink
One of the best parts of set jetting in the UK is how easy it is to reach these iconic locations via rail. For my trip to St Albans, I hopped on a Thameslink train, and the journey was simple, comfortable, and convenient.
Journey to St Albans
I started my set jetting adventure at King’s Cross St Pancras, one of the busiest and most famous train stations in London. With my 16-25 Railcard, I bought an off-peak return ticket to St Albans City, which made the journey more affordable. The train ride was quick, around 20 minutes, and I found a comfortable seat by the window. As we left the city, the view quickly transformed from the bustling streets of London to the peaceful countryside of Hertfordshire. It was the perfect time to relax and get into the spirit of the day ahead.
Arrival and onward journey
I arrived at St Albans City station and from there, it was an easy 10-15 minute walk to my first destination—the Veer Dhara mural and then on to the town centre, where I explored St Albans Cathedral and Verulamium Park. Everything was conveniently close, making it ideal for a day trip.
Return journey
After a day of exploring, I returned to St Albans City station and took the same Thameslink train back to King’s Cross St Pancras. The off-peak ticket made sure I avoided the crowds, and I got to unwind on the way back, enjoying the sunset over the fields as we approached London.
Practical tips for your set jetting adventure
If you’re planning your own set jetting trip across the UK, here are some tips to make the most of it:
Travel during off-peak times: Autumn and winter mean fewer crowds and a more intimate experience with these famous sites. The atmosphere of many locations is enhanced by the colder weather – think misty mornings at cathedrals or crisp, quiet market strolls.
Check local events and accessibility: London and St Albans are both accessible via Thameslink, making train travel a breeze. Keep in mind that some spots, like Leadenhall Market, are quieter on weekends, while places like Leicester Square are always buzzing but remain highly accessible to many.
Accommodation: London has endless accommodation options for every budget, and St Albans offers charming local stays, with many quaint B&Bs or more modern hotels. Book early if you're travelling during the festive season.
Guided tours: Many of these locations offer guided tours, especially for fans of certain films or TV series. For example, the Old Royal Naval College offers fascinating tours that dive deeper into its cinematic history.
More must-see set jetting locations accessible by rail
If you're inspired to explore more of the UK's film and TV landscapes, here are a few more options across our rail network.
Brighton: Known for the classics Brighton Rock and Quadrophenia and there is also the new ‘The Great’ series, Brighton’s coastal charm makes for a unique autumn or winter day out.
Cambridge: A quintessentially British backdrop, seen in films like The Theory of Everything and the new TV series Ludwig.
