Who doesn’t love a good James Bond film? It’s the perfect blend of adventure, intrigue, and of course, breathtaking locations!
Sure, the occasional sexist storyline might make you cringe, but hey, it’s a product of its time, right? Even with those quirks, I can’t resist a good Bond flick. Especially when I’m craving a little escape on a rainy Sunday afternoon, I’m always drawn to their exotic locations. From Istanbul’s bustling streets to Jamaica’s sun-drenched beaches, Bond’s adventures always spark my wanderlust. But no matter where Bond travels, one city always remains constant: London.
Bond’s London Headquarters: From Vauxhall to Westminster
When I recently ventured to London, I embarked on a mission to uncover some of the iconic James Bond film locations. And what better time than with the release of “No Time To Die”?
My adventure began where almost every Bond story begins: Vauxhall, home to the iconic MI6 building. This imposing structure is not only a filming location but also the real-life headquarters of the British Secret Intelligence Service. It’s the place where the “00” spies operate, where M reigns supreme, and where Moneypenny keeps a watchful eye on Bond. You might even remember the dramatic scene in “Skyfall” where the building was partially blown up!
Following the Thames, I walked towards the heart of London, where Westminster unfolds its grandeur. This area is practically a treasure trove of Bond film locations. In “Spectre,” Daniel Craig’s Bond can be seen sprinting along Parliament Street, with the Palace of Westminster, Big Ben, and the Westminster Underground station in the background.
MI6 Headquarters and Beyond: A Trail of Secret Missions
Just beyond Downing Street, I found the Old War Office, a striking building that served as the old MI6 headquarters in three Bond films: “Octopussy,” “A View to a Kill,” and “License to Kill.”
My journey led me to Trafalgar Square, where the National Portrait Gallery takes center stage. This is where Bond met the new Q in “Skyfall.” The scene was filmed in Room 34 on level 2, but unfortunately, the gallery was closed due to renovations during my visit.
Heading towards Buckingham Palace, I spotted the spot where Gustave Graves parachuted down in “Die Another Day.” And just a short distance away, along Pall Mall, stands the Reform Club. This exclusive club served as the setting for the thrilling fencing scene in “Die Another Day,” as well as the location where M met the Foreign Secretary in “Quantum of Solace.” Unfortunately, as a non-member, I wasn’t able to step inside.
Underground Adventures and Artistic Enclaves: From Skyfall to Somerset House
Back in Trafalgar Square, I noticed a small building with a black gate at the corner of Whitehall Place and Northumberland Avenue. This unassuming building doubled as the entrance to the Underground tunnels in “Skyfall,” where Javier Bardem’s villain, Raoul da Silva, emerged dressed as a policeman.
Not far from there, past Embankment Station (another star in “Skyfall”), lies Somerset House. This elegant building was transformed into a square in St Petersburg for “Golden Eye,” and later appeared as the Ministry of Defence in “Tomorrow Never Dies.” Nowadays, it’s a vibrant hub for arts and culture.
Continuing my exploration, I arrived in Covent Garden, home to the legendary Rules restaurant. This establishment boasts the title of London’s oldest restaurant, and it was featured in “Spectre,” where Moneypenny and Q informed M that they had located James Bond in North Africa.
Bond on the Thames: From Millennium Bridge to the O2
Along the Thames, connecting St Paul’s Cathedral and Tate Modern, is the Millennium Bridge. In “Spectre,” Moneypenny can be seen crossing this iconic bridge with St Paul’s Cathedral in the background.
Further downriver, towards Greenwich, lies the O2, formerly known as the Millennium Dome. This colossal structure served as the backdrop for a thrilling boat chase and a daring stunt involving Bond tumbling onto the roof in “The World is Not Enough.” While I didn’t have the opportunity to climb to the top, I hear the views are breathtaking!
A Final Note on Bond and London
To discover these and many other James Bond locations in London, consider embarking on a self-guided tour, hopping on a bus tour, or even taking a thrilling speedboat ride down the Thames. I personally opted for the speedboat tour and highly recommend it. It’s the perfect way to experience the city and embrace your inner James Bond. Just like a shaken, not stirred Martini, your London adventure will leave you feeling invigorated!
