Scene-Stealing stays start here
London locations of the big and small screen
Our country’s capital has to be one of the world’s most recognisable film sets. And our Cityside London pubs are neatly placed to get you in on the action. Harry Potter pilgrims won’t want to miss Leadenhall Market (featured just before the Diagon Alley scene in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone). And platform 9¾ at King’s Cross station, complete with its disappearing trolley, is a top photo op for Potter-heads and just 15 minutes away if you stay at the Fox & Anchor.
Paddington fans can follow in the paw prints of everyone’s favourite bear at Paddington Station itself, home to the famous statue and filming location for the much-loved movies. Just minutes away, The Pride of Paddington makes the perfect base for a family city break, with its spacious apartment ideal for little explorers after a day of sightseeing.
If you’re staying at the Orange Tree in Richmond, take a stroll over to Richmond Green, featured in Downton Abbey, Poirot, and Peter Rabbit 2. More recently, it’s been a regular location in Ted Lasso (famous spots in the show are the bench by the two red phone boxes and nearby Paved Court, where Ted lives).
From Downton to Bond: Explore nearby filming spots
Let’s start at The Carnarvon Arms in Newbury, which is right next to one of Britain’s most famous TV and film backdrops, Highclere Castle, the real-life name of the fictional Downton Abbey (the house tour takes you through many recognisable rooms).
When in Gloucestershire, you should stay at The Bell and check out Snowshill village, featured in Bridget Jones’s Diary, and Bourton-on-the-Water, where they shot the car chase scene in Die Another Day.
From regency romance to forest legends
Cheltenham’s Regency architecture makes it a period drama director’s dream, and it can be seen in movies like the 2020 adaptation of Emma (No.38 The Park is where to stay). The New Forest has appeared in countless film and TV productions, including the 90’s movie epic Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (book The Huntsman in Brockenhurst to be nearby).
The Westgate in Winchester is just a few minutes away from the city’s stunning ancient cathedral, the location for royal dramas, Elizabeth, Wolf Hall and The Crown. It’s about as regal as a location could get.
Surrey takes centre stage
For Surrey-based set hunting, stay at Worplesdon Place in Guildford. From there, you can visit the story-book village of Shere, which you might recognise from The Holiday and Bridget Jones. Or there’s the stupendous Royal Holloway university building, seen in The Crown, Downton Abbey, and Silent Witness. Also close by is Loseley Park, featured in The Crown, Wolf Hall, and Gentleman Jack.