- The Time Machine (1960)
- The Borrowers (1997)
- Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001)
- The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
- The Secret of Moonacre (2008)
- Stardust (2007)
- The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009)
- The House with a Clock in Its Walls (2018)
- Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children (2016)
- The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance (2019)
London, with its rich history and iconic landmarks, has long been a muse for filmmakers, especially those in the fantasy genre. This curated list of 10 films takes you on a magical journey through London, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary. From hidden magical worlds beneath the city to time-traveling adventures, these films not only entertain but also showcase London's versatility as a backdrop for fantastical tales. Whether you're a fan of whimsical escapades or darker, more mysterious narratives, this collection offers something for every fantasy lover, highlighting the city's enduring charm and its ability to inspire stories that captivate the imagination.

The Time Machine (1960)
Description: While the majority of the film takes place in the future, it starts in Victorian London, where the time traveler's journey begins, showcasing the city's historical charm before venturing into the unknown.
Fact: This film was one of the first to use a time-lapse photography technique to depict the passage of time.


The Borrowers (1997)
Description: This family-friendly film explores the life of tiny people living beneath the floorboards of a London house, offering a whimsical take on the city's hidden corners.
Fact: The film was based on the children's book by Mary Norton and features a young Tom Felton, who later became known for playing Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter series.


Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001)
Description: This film introduces us to the magical world of Harry Potter, where London's King's Cross Station becomes the gateway to Hogwarts via Platform 9¾, blending the city's real-world charm with the enchanting universe of wizards and witches.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations around London, including the Leadenhall Market, which served as Diagon Alley.


The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
Description: Although the main story unfolds in Narnia, the film begins in wartime London, where the Pevensie children are evacuated, setting the stage for their magical adventure.
Fact: The film was shot in New Zealand, but the London scenes were meticulously recreated to reflect the period.


The Secret of Moonacre (2008)
Description: This lesser-known gem features a young girl discovering a magical world in the English countryside, but the journey starts in London, where the story's roots are firmly planted.
Fact: The film is based on the novel "The Little White Horse" by Elizabeth Goudge, which inspired J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.


Stardust (2007)
Description: While not entirely set in London, the film begins in Victorian England, with scenes in London, before whisking viewers away to a magical realm. It's a tale of adventure, love, and magic that starts in the familiar streets of London.
Fact: The film was adapted from Neil Gaiman's novel, and the character of Captain Shakespeare was inspired by real-life historical figures.


The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009)
Description: Terry Gilliam's surreal fantasy takes viewers through a magical mirror into different worlds, with London's streets serving as the backdrop for the Imaginarium's entrance, showcasing the city's ability to transform into a fantastical setting.
Fact: Heath Ledger, who passed away during filming, was replaced by Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell, each playing a different version of his character in the Imaginarium.


The House with a Clock in Its Walls (2018)
Description: This film, set in the 1950s, features a young boy moving into a mysterious house in New Zebedee, Michigan, but the story's roots are in London, where the protagonist's journey begins.
Fact: The film is based on the novel by John Bellairs and features Jack Black and Cate Blanchett in magical roles.


Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children (2016)
Description: This film features a time loop in Wales, but its connection to London is through the protagonist's journey from the city to uncover the secrets of his grandfather's past, blending modern-day London with a fantastical world.
Fact: Tim Burton, known for his gothic and whimsical style, directed this adaptation of Ransom Riggs' novel.


The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance (2019)
Description: While not set in London, this prequel series to the iconic film includes scenes in a fantastical version of the city, blending the real with the surreal.
Fact: The series uses advanced puppetry and CGI to bring the world of Thra to life, much like the original film.
