Oh, Blighty! Land of tea, rain, and an utterly baffling array of accents within a 50-mile radius. But did you know, aside from churning out world-class thespians and inventing the Full English, the UK has also served as the backdrop for some of cinema’s most iconic moments? From the windswept moors of Yorkshire featured in “Wuthering Heights” to the bustling London streets of “Notting Hill,” the magic of British cinema is alive and well, hiding in plain sight ready for the intrepid traveller to discover. So, grab your brolly and let’s embark on a slightly whimsical, mildly educational, and thoroughly British journey through the UK’s iconic film locations. And who knows? You might just stumble into the backdrop of the next big blockbuster.
First stop, the venerable Alnwick Castle, which doubled as the hallowed (and slightly haunted) halls of Hogwarts in the first two “Harry Potter” films. Whilst you sadly won’t find a moving staircase or the Room of Requirement (trust me, we’ve all looked), you will find a castle steeped in history and magic of a more real, if slightly less spellbinding, kind. Don your robes, practice your best Wingardium Leviosa and explore the very grounds where Harry learned to fly. Just be wary of any bludgers.
If mysterious highland mists and dramatic landscapes are more your cup of tea (Earl Grey, naturally), then a journey to Glencoe should be next on your itinerary. Famous as the backdrop for the Bond family estate in “Skyfall”, Glencoe is no stranger to drama, both cinematic and historical. Whilst Q might not be on hand to provide you with a tricked-out Aston Martin, the rolling hills and breathtaking vistas are guaranteed to make you feel like the star of your own thriller. Just remember, the only thing shaken and stirred should be your cocktail back at the lodge.
No tour of British film locations would be complete without a nod to the rom-com that launched a thousand American anglophiles, “Notting Hill”. Fancy walking in the footsteps of Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts? Then the Notting Hill Bookshop is your must-visit spot. Whilst the likelihood of bumping into a world-famous actress is slim (and the chances of her finding your awkward mumblings charming, even slimmer), the bookshop remains a charming slice of cinematic history nestled in one of London’s most picturesque neighbourhoods.
Perhaps a bit obscure for our international visitors, but no less worthy of a visit, is the quaint village of Port Isaac in Cornwall. This idyllic seaside locale doubles as the fictional village of Portwenn in the beloved British TV series “Doc Martin”. Fans of the curmudgeonly GP and the quirky villagers will relish the opportunity to explore the narrow lanes and stunning coastal views that form the backdrop to the show’s many dramas and comedic moments. Just don’t expect to receive a warm welcome from Doc Martin himself if you happen to twist your ankle on the cobbles.
For fans of period dramas, a pilgrimage to Highclere Castle is non-negotiable. The primary filming location for “Downton Abbey”, Highclere is as much a character in the series as the Dowager Countess of Grantham herself. Set amidst 1,000 acres of stunning parkland, the castle offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent world of the British aristocracy. Just try to refrain from asking the tour guides where Mr Bates is hiding the body; they’ve heard it a thousand times.
Whether you’re a Potterhead, a Bond aficionado, a hopeless romantic, or a period drama enthusiast, the UK’s rich tapestry of film locations offers something for every kind of tourist. So, pack your bags (don’t forget the raincoat), charge your camera, and set off on a cinematic journey through some of the most beautiful and iconic locations in Britain. Who knows? Maybe you’ll even find a bit of magic along the way.
Now, over to you dear reader, have you ever visited a film location in the UK, or is there one you’re dying to see? Do tell in the comments below!
