London is an exciting place for children to visit, not only because there is so much to do, but also because the British capital is the setting for so many books and movies. Here are some of the best.
Harry Potter books
The Harry Potter books feature many scenes set in real life from London and other UK destinations, including the famous Platform 9-3 / 4 at Kings Cross Station.
Buy the box of books on Amazon
Harry Potter Movies
All Harry Potter films include scenes shot in London and elsewhere in Britain. It’s fun looking for those Potter spots when you’re on vacation.
Buy the movie box on Amazon
Sherlock (TV Series)
This BBC series starring Benedict Cumberbatch is an excellent modern take on the Sherlock Holmes tales, and the London backdrop is sensational.
Buy Season 1 DVD on Amazon
Mr. Bean (TV Series)
This cult hit starring Rowan Atkinson as the hapless Mr. Bean is comedy gold for Anglophiles of all ages. Kids will love the antics of this trouble-prone character, and parents will love that it’s all G-rated fun.
Buy the series on DVD on Amazon
Paddington (Movie)
Young children will love this movie based on a beloved book series about an adorable bear who lives in London with the Brown family. Many of the filming locations are popular attractions in the capital.
Buy the film on Amazon
Fever Pass (Book)
For teens who want to understand the British obsession with soccer (soccer in America), this hilarious and best-selling novel by Nick Hornby is a must-read. You’ll get a great insight into the obsessive love of the game and in particular Arsenal Football Club in London. (This later became a movie starring Colin Firth.)
Buy the book on Amazon
Oliver Twist (Book)
London is full of old buildings dating back centuries. Anything written by Charles Dickens will help children imagine what life was like in those days. Dickens was a great force for social reform in Victorian times.
Buy the book on Amazon
Oliver Twist (Film)
There have been several movie versions of this Dickens classic. It stars Richard Dreyfuss and Elijah Wood.
Buy the DVD on Amazon
Mary Poppins (Film)
Many consider this to be the best Disney movie. This charming children’s film beautifully conveys the London era of proper babysitters and chimney sweeps. Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke are wonderful.
Buy the 50th Anniversary DVD on Amazon
The Great Mouse Detective (film)
For kids too young for Sherlock Holmes, try Basil of Baker Street in this fun film with lots of Victorian London vibe. There’s even an appearance by Sherlock himself (voiced by Basil Rathbone). There are also Mouse Detective books.
Buy the DVD on Amazon
