London is an incredible city; so many films and TV shows make use of the iconic buildings and locations. Many of the largest franchises have used London as a setting or backdrop for their final showdowns. Marvel’s 2013 superhero flick Thor: The Dark World was shot at the Old Naval College in Greenwich. Nottinghill, one of the ultimate rom-coms of all time was set and filmed in, well, in Nottinghill. Obviously. And of course, the crowning jewel in London’s diamond encrusted crown, Harry Potter was pretty much entirely filmed in London.
The list is long, but you get the idea- there have been a serious amount of films featuring London.
Something that often gets overlooked however is the fact that smash hit, 90s and 00s comedy ‘Friends’ had a couple of episodes where the characters spent time in London. Now if you are a Friends super-fan (who isn’t?) and have taken advantage of the amazing London West End Hotel Deals then get ready! Starting from the best Corporate Accommodation London West End has on offer, this is the perfect trip for you.
As you are staying in one of the best Hotels In West End London, The Piccadilly London West End Hotel, then you will be very excited to know that you are a short walk from the hotel where the famous friends stayed during their trip.
Now, to save you having to ‘get inside the map’ like Joey Tribbiani, we have planned the entire route for you, so you can follow the trail that Joey and Chandler took during their London adventure; and even experience the place where Ross made that fateful mistake. Let’s crack on and get stuck into this Friends filming locations guide.
The London Marriott Hotel | Grosvenor Square
We kick off the day outside the London Marriott at Grosvenor Square. A grand building that hosted the entirety of the American contingent for Ross’ wedding. The pavement outside this fancy hotel is where Joey hopped into the map, in an attempt to figure out how to get to Westminster! We don’t recommend trying this however, as you may ruin your map!
Instead, just head South East making for Buckingham Palace.
Buckingham Palace | Westminster
Buckingham Palace is the home to the Royal Family, and is truly one of the best spots in the city to visit as a tourist! Make your way under Admiralty Arch and up the Mall. As you get towards the iron gates and stand next to the Queen Victoria Memorial Fountain, you will have the perfect view of the magnificent palace. Even though the Palace only featured briefly in the background, Joey made it to this spot, without the help of Chandler. Take a stroll around the Palace and enjoy St. James’ park, it is a really beautiful spot. Then grab a picture of the Queen’s Guard and get ready to move on!
The Houses of Parliament & Westminster Abbey | Westminster
Just around the corner from the Palace is one of the most important areas in the country. Parliament Square is the home of the British Government, and the location of the Houses of Parliament. Again this is only very briefly featured in the episode, but it is clear that Joey and Chandler made it here to admire the stunning buildings. Westminster Abbey is an absolute gem, and one of the most beautiful buildings you will likely ever see. It certainly was Joey’s favourite, as he calls it the best Abbey he has ever seen! Take your time to snap a picture of Big Ben, the best spot is actually out on Westminster Bridge- trust me, the tower looks resplendent from here!
Trinity Square | Tower Hill
Next up is Trinity Square. A quick jaunt along the river passing some of the city’s most famous landmarks will bring you to Tower Bridge- but we aren’t quite ready for that yet! Head away from the river, cross the main road, and you’ll find yourself in a nice green space. This is thought to be the location where Joey purchases a Union Jack hat, and whilst there are plenty of these mobile vendors in the area, I can’t promise any of them will be run by Sir Richard Branson…
Tower Bridge | River Thames
Next up is Tower Bridge, seen by Joey and Chandler from the top deck of their bus tour. This incredible bridge will stop you in your tracks, its grandeur and stunning architecture is something that all visitors to London must see. You can cross the interconnecting glass walkway at an incredible 42 metres above the River Thames, and tour the engine rooms of the amazing bridge. If you’re lucky you may get to see it open too!
St John’s Church | Wapping
This is a little bit of a difficult one. The inside of the church where Ross and Emily held their fateful wedding was entirely shot in a studio. However there is one moment in the episode where they arrive at a church, only to find it has been turned into a building site. The church in question here is St. John’s Church in Wapping. A sleepy neighbourhood on the banks of the Thames, and you can visit the exact location where Emily, Ross and Monica stodd in dismay. As an added bonus if you want to find a church that is reminiscent of the building site where Ross and Emily nearly got married, then head to St. Dunstan in the East. The ruins of a church that have rather magnificently been turned into a public garden. Yes it’s as beautiful as it sounds!
The Wheatsheaf | Fitzrovia
This one is a bit of a bonus, as the pub in question is only ever talked about by the gang, once they are back in New York. The Friends talk about their cab driver, Angus, taking them to a pub called the Wheatsheaf. Now we will never know if this is a real pub or not, but a great way to finish a busy day in London is by visiting a great British pub. Fitzrovia is full of them, but as this has been a Friends themed day, it would be rude to spoil the party!
After you’ve visited the pub make sure you check out the area for some of the best Restaurants West End London has to offer for a spot of dinner. Then head back to your cosy room, full and happy after following Joey, Chandler and the gang’s route around the city. Just be sure to call your partner by the right name…
