The charming, Regency-style houses on Chalcot Crescent in Primrose Hill, North London, have long captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike.
But since the area appeared in the Paddington film franchise, where it served as the fictional home of the Brown family, a new type of visitor has emerged: the film tourist.
Tourists eager to capture a piece of Paddington magic have been flocking to the street, often snapping selfies right in front of residents’ living room windows.
“I’ve seen people taking selfies right in front of someone’s living room window, and…if that was me, I’d be a bit annoyed to have my living room put straight on Instagram,” says Matt Cooper, a Labour councillor for Primrose Hill.
Recently, tensions have heightened as Airbnb announced a competition allowing three lucky families to stay in a Chalcot Crescent house reimagined to resemble the film set, in celebration of the upcoming Paddington in Peru release this November.
Airbnb plans to renovate the property to mimic the home of the Brown family, painting the facade blue and blocking off five parking spaces for two weeks.
While the promotion promises a “sizeable donation” to the Primrose Hill Community Association, some residents are voicing frustration.
A group of residents penned a letter of protest, citing concerns over the disruption caused by over-tourism and the potential for increased noise and congestion.
For many, this competition is “the straw breaking the camel’s back,” says Cooper, as locals feel they are bearing the brunt of increased tourism.
The tension mirrors similar issues faced by film set locations worldwide, highlighting the broader question of balancing tourism with local quality of life.
Airbnb has attempted to ease concerns by keeping the house’s exact location private and assuring the community of its donation.
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