JAMES BOND

We all know the name. Bond, James Bond. With his girls, sports cars, martinis (shaken NOT stirred), suave suits and charisma, James Bond truly is the world's most famous spy. '007' is one of Britain's finest icons, inspiring a film franchise like no other: spanning all the way back from 1962 and up to 24 films (number 25 is currently in production). James Bond was actually created in 1953 by author Ian Fleming, going on to feature in twelve novels. Given this plethora of information to sort through - and the fact that I haven't seen every Bond film in existence - I think it wise for this post to focus on the most recent, and some might say controversial, blonde Bond by actor Daniel Craig. Daniel Craig has starred as James Bond since he was cast in the first film Casino Royal in 2006. Since then he has featured in Quantum of Solace (2008), Skyfall (2012), Spectre (2015) and the keenly anticipated upcoming instalment, for now simply known as Bond 25. 

Bond with the London skyline

Often viewed as the ultimate British character, the Bond films purposefully integrate the British capital as constant reminders to all viewers - Ian Fleming's character is a product of the UK, loud and proud.

This is fantastic news to visitors of London - we get to step into the workplace of the most famous (fictional) spy in the modern history.

Below I've listed the most seminal locations featured in the Daniel Craig Bond era.

LONDON SKYLINE

On the London Eye

A bit of a no brainer, but this one is cool and simple. A memorable moment of Skyfall sees Craig as James Bond atop a central London roof, surveying the city around him. We get a fantastic view of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the Ministry of Defence and not to mention a not so subtle Union Jack flag in the foreground. 

Tips and Tricks: Unfortunately the specific rooftop that Bond uses to reflect is not available to the public, being the Department for Energy and Climate Change. However - lucky for the visiting public, there are many places in London to observe the surrounding city. One of the most popular options is the London Eye located on the South Bank. Another is the viewing platform at the Tate Modern. One that I wish I had done but didn’t get the opportunity to is the observation deck from The Shard. Don't forget there are several rooftop bars throughout the city that offer quality views in addition to quality beverages - so you can go get that classic martini if you dare.  

WHERE TO GO: See the options listed above

TRAFALGAR SQUARE AND THE NATIONAL GALLERY

Skyfall also features James Bond in one of central London's most celebrated areas - visiting Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery. Trafalgar Square is the go to meeting place for almost anyone in London - a hub of action identifiable by the two Lion pillars and monument. Just north of the Thames, the roads from Trafalgar Square lead to the Mall, Leicester Square, 10 Downing Street and Somerset House. The National Gallery is located in Trafalgar Square. It is a beautiful dome-roofed building - you can't miss it - and also happens to house paintings by Van Gogh and Raphael amongst others.

Tips and Tricks: If you like to people watch Trafalgar Square is the place to be. My first time there, a car was on fire in the middle of the street - crazy stuff. Subsequent visits included a lesson by London street photographers. It is important however to be mindful of potential pickpockets as this is a tourist hotspot.

If you are more inclined to the arts, stroll through the busy Trafalgar Square to get to the National Gallery. Otherwise known as the place where James Bond meets Q in Skyfall (Room 34 to be exact). There are dozens of rooms for you to either explore the 13th-19th century art by yourself, or as part of a tour. Did I mention it's free entry? 

This one being so central is super easy to get to. Bus routes 3, 6, 9, 11, 12, 15, 24, 53, 87, 91, 139, 159, 176, and 453 stop near Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery. The closest train stations are Charing Cross, Leicester Square and  Embankment. Worth checking out Buckingham Palace whilst you're in the area. 

Some of the paintings inside the National Gallery

WHERE TO GO:The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London WC2N 5DN

TIMES:Daily from 10am-6pm, Fridays 10am-9pm

M16 HEADQUARTERS

Bond's attachment to London can be derived directly to the M16 Headquarters AKA The SIS Building in Vauxhall Cross. Despite featuring in nearly every Bond film, once again it is Skyfall which grants it the most screen time. Most prominently, indeed, when the building comes under attack. Located on the North Bank of the Thames besides the Vauxhall Bridge, the building houses the United Kingdom's real life foreign intelligence agency, the Secret Intelligent Service. Opened in 1994, the building has been recognised for its interesting postmodern architecture. 

The MI6 Headquarters (SIS Building)

Tips and Tricks: It goes without saying that the SIS building is not open for public viewing. However, you can grab a sweet view of the building nonetheless. I would suggest either a hop-on hop-off river cruise of the Thames, or if the weather permits, a stroll along the South Bank.

WHERE TO GO: 85 Albert Embankment, Vauxhall, Lambeth, London

RULES RESTAURANT

Need a break from being an international man/woman of mystery? So did the Bond characters in Spectre- with M, Q and Moneypenny all dining at Rules Restaurant in Covent Garden. This Edwardian style restaurant has been serving luxury British dining since 1798, making it the oldest restaurant in London. Enjoy a meal or a drink in the Winter Garden Cocktail Bar. 

Tips and Tricks: BOOK A TABLE! I have attached a link to the website if you desire to do so - https://rules.co.uk 

M, Q and MoneyPenny in the Rules restaurant

WHERE TO GO: 35 Maiden Lane, Charing Cross, London WC2E 7LB

TIMES: Midday to Midnight

PRICE: Surprisingly affordable considering the legacy - around the 28 pound mark for a main meal

With these places in mind, you don’t need the Bond girl, villain or fancy car to feel like 007. Although let's be honest, we won't forgo the martini!

PS: I've attached a youtube clip with some behind the scenes of the film crew for Skyfall - around the 1:17 mark you see Daniel Craig in Trafalgar Square. 

You can find the pinned locations through the link below ⇓

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1UXtW_8q5VKpHA1hNxBBai7oo_NxaUeO5&usp=sharing