The charming London district of Notting Hill, with its vibrant streets and colorful houses, provided the perfect backdrop for the 1999 romantic comedy "Notting Hill." The film, starring Hugh Grant as a humble bookshop owner and Julia Roberts as a glamorous American actress, captivated audiences with its heartwarming story and picturesque locations. This self-guided walking tour invites you to step into the world of "Notting Hill," exploring the real-life places that brought the film to life.
Starting at Notting Hill Gate tube station, this approximately two-mile walk offers a delightful journey through the heart of Walking Tour of "Notting Hill"; Film Locations. While the walk itself can be completed in under an hour, allowing ample time to soak in the atmosphere and revisit iconic scenes is recommended. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera, and prepare to be enchanted by the magic of "Notting Hill."
The Coronet Cinema/The Print Room
Our cinematic adventure begins at 103 Notting Hill Gate, easily accessible from the Notting Hill Gate tube station. Depending on which exit you take, you’ll find yourself either next to or opposite a building that has undergone a fascinating transformation. This is the Print Room, formerly known as the Coronet Cinema.
The Coronet Cinema holds a significant place in the history of Notting Hill. Opening its doors as a theatre in 1898, it quickly gained recognition as a prestigious venue. King Edward VII himself graced the Coronet with his presence, and the legendary Sir John Gielgud experienced his first Shakespeare play within its walls. For many years, the Coronet served as a beloved cinema for the local community.
In "Notting Hill," the Coronet Cinema played a pivotal role. It was here that William Thacker, played by Hugh Grant, found himself captivated by "Helix," a science fiction short film starring Anna Scott, portrayed by Julia Roberts. The scene encapsulates the unlikely connection between the ordinary bookshop owner and the extraordinary movie star.
In 2010, the Coronet Cinema was reborn as the Print Room, a dynamic arts venue. The Print Room offers a diverse program of events, including Off-West End shows, poetry readings, musical performances, and educational talks and discussions. If your schedule allows, consider returning in the evening to experience the Print Room’s vibrant cultural offerings.
Bella and Max’s House
From the Print Room, we journey towards the home of William’s friends, Bella (played by Gina McKee) and Max. As you leave the Print Room, walk down Notting Hill Gate in the direction of Holland Park tube station. Upon reaching Holland Park station, turn right onto Lansdowne Road. Continue along Lansdowne Road until you reach number 91 on your right. This is the exterior of Bella and Max’s house.
In the film, this house is the setting for a memorable birthday party. William surprises his younger sister, Honey Thacker, and her partner, Bernie (played by Hugh Bonneville), by bringing the famous Anna Scott as his guest. The scene is filled with awkward encounters and humorous moments, highlighting the clash between William’s ordinary life and Anna’s celebrity world. William and Anna, after leaving the party, intoxicated, share a moment of laughter, marking a turning point in their relationship.
Feel free to pause and capture a photograph in front of the building, immortalizing your visit to this iconic location. Then, prepare to follow in the footsteps of William and Anna as they venture further into the neighborhood.
Rosmead Gardens
Just around the corner from Bella and Max’s house lies Rosmead Gardens, a serene oasis that played a significant role in the film. Turn around and take your first right onto Rosmead Road, and you’ll see the gardens.
Rosmead Gardens is a private communal garden, a hidden gem within the Ladbroke Estate. The Ladbroke Estate also encompasses other private gardens in the vicinity, including Arundel Gardens and St. John’s. Despite resembling a small park, these gardens are owned and meticulously maintained by the local residents. Access is restricted to those who possess keys, ensuring the privacy and tranquility of the space.
In "Notting Hill," Rosmead Gardens served as the backdrop for a memorable scene. After leaving Bella’s party, Anna and William drunkenly stumbled into the gardens, scaling the wall in a moment of carefree abandon. While the film may have romanticized this act of trespassing, it’s essential to remember that entering the gardens without permission is illegal and potentially dangerous. The railings conceal a significant drop on the other side, posing a risk of injury.
Instead, admire the beauty of Rosmead Gardens from the road, appreciating its lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere. Imagine Anna and William’s playful escapade, and perhaps even recreate their laughter in your own way.
Portobello Road Market
Our next destination is the world-famous Portobello Road Market, a vibrant and eclectic hub of activity. To reach the market from Rosmead Gardens, head back to Lansdowne Road, passing Bella’s house on your left. Turn left onto Ladbroke Grove, the first left you encounter. Walk up one block to Elgin Crescent, make a right turn, and continue for two blocks before making another right onto Portobello Road.
Portobello Road Market is a feast for the senses, a captivating blend of sights, sounds, and smells. The market operates six days a week, with the Saturday antique sale being a particular highlight. Stroll along the bustling street, browsing through the myriad of stalls offering antiques, vintage clothing, fresh produce, and street food.
In the opening scene of "Notting Hill," Hugh Grant is seen walking down Portobello Road Market on his way to his bookshop, The Travel Book Company. The scene perfectly captures the energy and charm of the neighborhood. Immerse yourself in the market’s vibrant atmosphere, imagining William navigating the crowds on his way to work.
The Travel Bookshop
For fans of "Notting Hill," a visit to The Travel Bookshop is an absolute must. Continue along Portobello Road, and you’ll find the iconic location less than a block from where you turned onto Portobello Road from Elgin Crescent.
The building at 142 Portobello Road served as the exterior location for William Thacker’s Travel Book Shop in the film. However, the reality is that there has never been a bookshop at this address. In the past, the building housed the Nicholls Antique Arcade and a furniture store called Gong. Currently, it operates as a gift shop. A sign for "The Travel Book Shop" has remained in place since filming occurred in 1998, serving as a testament to the film’s enduring popularity.
The fictional bookstore in the film was inspired by the real Travel Bookshop, which was originally located nearby at 13 Blenheim Crescent. To reach this location, walk back down Portobello Road, past Elgin Crescent, and make a left onto Blenheim Crescent. The original Travel Bookshop closed in 2011 but has since reopened as the Notting Hill Bookshop, continuing to offer a curated selection of travel literature.
The Blue Door (William’s Flat)
Our next stop is the famous blue door that led to William’s flat in the film. From the Notting Hill Bookshop, continue up Portobello Road, passing Saint’s Tattoo Parlour, where the confused man with the "I Love Ken" tattoo stumbled out in the movie. The next road, Westbourne Park Road, is where you’ll find the iconic blue door.
The house behind the blue door was once owned by Richard Curtis, the screenwriter of "Notting Hill." The blue door became a popular attraction, with many visitors leaving their signatures and messages on it. However, the original door was eventually removed and sold at auction at Christie’s. A black door replaced it in an attempt to deter attention, but the current owners have kindly painted the door blue once again, restoring its iconic status.
The property is a converted chapel with huge windows and ornate church features, thus nothing like the studio set used for the interior scenes in the movie. You can’t see any of this from the street though, but you can snap a quick photograph in front of the new blue door.
Coffee Shop
Cross Portobello Road to the opposite corner, where you’ll find a chain coffee shop called CoffeeBello. In the film, a small cafe with sidewalk tables and chairs stood next door, but it has since been replaced by a hair salon.
This corner is the location where William famously bumped into Anna, spilling a glass of orange juice on her. He then invited her back to his flat across the road to clean up, marking the beginning of their unexpected and heartwarming connection.
Tony’s Restaurant
Our final film location is Tony’s Restaurant, now an art store and gift shop called Portfolio, located at 105 Golborne Road. From the coffee shop on the corner, continue down Portobello Road, passing under The Westway, and turn right onto Golborne Road.
In the film, Tony’s Restaurant was owned by William Thacker’s friend Tony, played by Richard McCabe. The restaurant was deemed a failure, but Tony and his friend Bernie played "Blue Moon" on the piano on the night it closed, creating a poignant and memorable scene.
Ending the Walking Tour Walking Tour of "Notting Hill"; Film Locations
From Portfolio, you have several options for ending your Walking Tour of "Notting Hill"; Film Locations. You could walk along Portobello Road back to Notting Hill Gate, or you could head to the closer Ladbroke Grove or Westbourne Park tube stations. Alternatively, you could continue up Golborne Road and take a walk along the Grand Union Canal.
To reach the canal, walk up Golborne Road and continue straight ahead, passing Trellick Tower on your right. When the road bends to the left and becomes Kensal Road, head onto the canal path next to Meanwhile Gardens. Turn right, and in about 20 minutes, you’ll reach Little Venice, where you could consider doing the Little Venice to Camden Walk.
This Walking Tour of "Notting Hill"; Film Locations offers a unique opportunity to experience the charm and romance of the film while exploring the vibrant streets of Notting Hill. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply looking for a delightful walking route, this tour is sure to leave you with lasting memories. Enjoy your Walking Tour of "Notting Hill"; Film Locations!
