BODYGUARD

I don't know about you, but I will watch anything that stars Richard Madden (big up ye to the OG King of the North). So when the critically acclaimed come breakout mini-series Bodyguard was picked up by Netflix Australia, to say I was excited would be an understatement. And boy, did this show not disappoint. If you too, are a fan of British crime or thrillers and have yet to watch this series, my advice is this: JUMP ON TO YOUR CLOSEST STREAMING DEVICE, WATCH IT, AND THEN COME BACK HERE. If my words have yet to convince you, observe the trailer below: 

If however, you too are a fan of this miniseries - continue on! Now, I admit I did not see this one until after my time in London. But considering a) how integral and consistently London features as the setting in this popular show and b) I'm obsessed with this series what can I say, I think it is worth covering anyway. 

I was delighted to see so many classic London locations throughout the episodes - often pointing and yelling to my Dad "oh my god I've crossed that bridge!" or "look, look that building is where I worked!" when we were watching.

Hard stares all round

It seems that I'm not the only one who became hooked with David Budd's story of conflict with the Home Secretary - the final tally of viewership for the final episode was a whopping 17 million, and the series went on to gain bucket loads of award nominations (I'm talking BAFTAs and Golden Globes here - yes a big congratulations for Mr Madden is in order, his win is on YouTube if any of you have also fallen for the Scottish charm *sigh*).  

So ma'am (sorry I had to) here we go - I've listed some of the most iconic/recurring settings of the series, with some acting as surprising doubles in lieu of the real thing (I'm looking at you Palace of Westminster).

1. DAVID BUDD'S HOUSE

Our protagonist David is often shown home alone during his darkest moments - a particularly morbid scene featuring a gun comes to mind. The home for David was filmed at the Stoneleigh Terrace Estate in Highgate, North London. This location is quite well known by architects and London property enthusiasts - built in the 1970's as public housing, they are now privately owned and have been known to sell for over 700,000 pounds.

David Budd outside the estate

Tips and Tricks: As stated, these flats are now mainly privately owned. Therefore, I would suggest a walk by and through the neighbourhood will be your best bet. Double points to whoever can recreate David's tense walk with the bomb squad in the series finale! 

Public transport wise, the closest underground is Archway Station, and the closest overground is Upper Holloway.

WHERE TO GO: Raydon Street, Highgate, London N19 5BU

2. PALACE OF WESTMINSTER AKA HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT

Houses of Parliament along the River Thames

Having a series set in several of the most famous and busy buildings in London poses several problems - luckily, one public school in Surrey bears an uncanny likeness to the Palace of Westminster. Charterhouse Boarding School doubled as the meeting place of the House of Commons and the House of Lords for the filming of Bodyguard. The school, founded as an education establishment as early as 1611, is not open to the public. 

Tips and Tricks: Although the place of filming is not open to public visitors, why not attend the real thing? Bodyguard had to replicate the Palace of Westminster for filming reasons, however the real Palace of Westminster is open to visitors to view debates and committee hearings, complete with guided tours. History buffs will not want to miss this one! Be wary to expect airport-style security measures upon entry. The closest underground station is Westminster, and there are several bus lines that stop near this location. For additional information, check out the link below:

https://www.parliament.uk/visiting/

WHERE TO GO: Westminster, London, SW1A 0AA

TIMES: Monday to Friday 9am-5pm, closed weekends

PRICE: The 90 minute guided tours (available in several languages) cost 28 pounds for adults, and 12 pounds for children.

3. 10 DOWNING STREET

This is another example where film and tv trickery is required. The real 10 Downing Street, AKA the official office of British Leaders since 1732, is (quite rightly) not available to film crews. The answer then, has become 8 John Adam Street. Located near Whitehall, this address is the only other townhouse in London with the same make as that of 10 Downing Street. For this reason, it has become the go to for film and tv crews alike. The address is home to the Royal Society for Encouragement of the Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (otherwise known as the RSA). The RSA isn't open to the public, however nothing's stopping you from doing a walk by.

Tips and Tricks: There's not much to say here as access to both buildings is off limits to the public. However, given the choice it is best to visit the real destination. Close to Westminster station, the security is mad but that is half the fun of dropping by for a look.

 

Julia and David entering '1O Downing Street'

WHERE TO GO: 10 Downing Street, SW1

4. THE SAFE HOUSE

The Safe House where Julia and David must stay is none other than the 5 star South Place Hotel. This swanky and high style hotel comes complete with a Michelin star restaurant, popular bar plus a sauna and spa. Not too shabby a place to be holed up with your PSO if you ask me.

Richard Madden as David in the safe house

South Place Hotel

Tips and Tricks: Located in-between Moorgate and Liverpool stations, it's a hop, skip and a jump from most major London attractions. Want a taste of the chic hotel without blowing the budget? Try swinging past for a drink at the Secret Garden Bar.   

https://southplacehotel.com  

WHERE TO GO: 3 South Place, Finsbury, London EC2M 2AF

PRICE: Rooms start from 315 pounds per  night

5. POLICE STATION

Outside the Tate Modern

Throughout the series we see David Budd check in for tasks (and reprimands) from his superior officers. Primarily that of Commander Sampson, whose beautiful office at the Metropolitan Police reinstates her high rank. Funnily enough, these scenes are actually shot on one of the upper floors in the Tate Modern. This explains the central view we can see when she gazes out of her window throughout the series.

Tips and Tricks: You might not be able to get inside the specific room they filmed in, however the Tate Modern is definitely worth visiting regardless. The viewing platform is stunning (especially at night) and the art and exhibitions on display will provide the cultural edge to anyone's London visit. PLUS, there is a Terrace Bar to enjoy a classic British G&T if you so desire!

Located near Southwark, London Bridge and Blackfriars stations, the Tate is also close to the Millennium Bridge.

Getting my culture fix in the Tate

WHERE TO GO:  Bankside, London, SE1 9TG

TIMES: 10am-6pm Sunday-Thursday, 10am-10pm Friday and Saturday

PRICES: Free entry, however some exhibitions are paid entry only

So that's my distinctive Bodyguard destination list, which may keep us occupied as we wait for season 2! And just for fun, check out the video below ⇓

I've attached the link and picture of the locations below ⇓

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1tWYEpRycVtuj_fovNImyLYdGPap9ZRBO&usp=sharing