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Discover the real star: Great Britain

Get ready to see the real star of the show on this journey which brings iconic TV shows and films to life. From the bustling streets of London to the dramatic coastlines of Cornwall and the rugged landscapes of the Highlands, Britain takes centre stage in this star-studded itinerary.

Stroll through Bridget Jones’ London, sip afternoon tea in Bridgerton’s Bath, or cast spells with Harry Potter. Whether it is the gothic drama of The Witcher in Surrey or the gritty allure of the Peaky Blinders in Birmingham, every stop reveals a new layer of Britain’s charm. Flexible, immersive, and packed with cinematic action, this set-jetting adventure invites visitors to walk in the footsteps of their favourite characters. Britain is ready for its close-up!

Alnwick Castle

An historic castle with a UK flag at full mast and with a lion statue out the front.

Stop 1: Greater London and Surrey

London is a prime destination for film enthusiasts, offering a range of locations and themed tours tied to iconic movies and TV series. Fans of Tim Burton can enter the whimsical world of the iconic film director at the Design Museum, while those wanting to follow the escapades of a marmalade sandwich-eating bear can explore the new Paddington Experience or go on a Paddington Taxi Tour of London. The capital also caters for Harry Potter devotees, with highlights including the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, while fans of The Crown can follow in the footsteps of the royal cast on themed tours.

The Path Entertainment Group/Paddington Bear Experience/Alex Brenner

Character actors talking to a young child on the set of a stage.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter 

Visitors can enter the magical world of Harry Potter at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. This immersive experience offers fans the chance to explore original sets, costumes and props used in the films, from the Great Hall at Hogwarts to Diagon Alley and Platform 9¾. Visitors can discover behind-the-scenes secrets about the production, enjoy interactive exhibits and even sample a glass of Butterbeer. Getting to the studio from central London is easy - trains from Euston to Watford Junction take around 20 minutes, with regular shuttle buses operating from the station to the Studio Tour (15 min). 

 

Paddington Taxi Tour of London (Brit Movie Tours) 

Embark on a heartwarming adventure with the Paddington Taxi Tour of Filming Locations. Tailor-made for fans of the famous bear, this three-hour journey visits filming locations from the Paddington movies across London. Setting off from Paddington Station, visitors will see the Windsor Gardens film location, home of Paddington Bear and the Brown family, and be able to hop out of the taxi to climb Primrose Hill. Pose for photos at famous Paddington landmarks en-route, all while hearing behind-the-scenes stories about Paddington’s escapades.  

The World of Tim Burton, The Design Museum 

Visitors can immerse themselves in The World of Tim Burton at the Design Museum in Kensington (until 25 April 2025), a deep dive into the surreal universe of the renowned director. This immersive exhibition showcases Burton’s iconic characters, from Edward Scissorhands to Beetlejuice, through original sketches and props. Visitors can explore the creative process behind his fantastical worlds and see how Burton’s gothic imagination has shaped modern filmmaking.  

Guildford Cathedral, Surrey 

For fans of dramatic Gothic architecture and Netflix’s The Witcher, Guildford Cathedral is the star of the show. This landmark in Surrey doubles as the Nilfgaardian palace of Emperor Emhyr in the show’s third season. Beyond The Witcher, Guildford Cathedral has appeared in films like The Omen and The Sandman. Visitors can explore its serene interior, admire sweeping views from its hilltop location, or join events hosted throughout the year. 

 

The Crown tour of London 

Brit Movies’ The Crown Tour of London is a regal journey through the heart of the capital, tracing the filming locations of Netflix’s royal drama. From the grandeur of Lancaster House, standing in for Buckingham Palace, to the stately elegance of the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, the tour brings key moments from the series to life. Look out for numerous royal landmarks from the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. 

Wands and Wizard Exploratorium  

The Wands and Wizard Exploratorium, in London’s Soho, is a magical experience for fans of all things wizardry. Spread across several floors, this immersive venue features interactive exhibits, including the Magic Wand Experience, where visitors can design and create their own wands. It also hosts family-friendly events like potion-making classes and offers magical Wizard Afternoon Tea experiences. 

Bridget Jones Tour of London 

Step into the world of cinema’s favourite singleton with the Bridget Jones Locations Tour. This experience takes visitors on a cinematic journey across London, visiting iconic spots from the franchise. See Bridget’s Borough Market flat, pop into the newsagent where Bridget bumps into Darcy during the Aghani law case and stroll past the legal inns of court where Darcy worked. Aimed at die-hard fans, this tour is packed with trivia, behind-the-scenes insights and plenty of Instagram-worthy stops. Private tours and group tours are available upon request. 

 

Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich 

Whether movie buff or history enthusiast, the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich is a prime spot for set-jetters. This architectural gem, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, has been used in numerous film and TV productions, from being the backdrop for Netflix’s Bridgerton, The Crown and Enola Holmes to hosting blockbusters like Pirates of the Caribbean, Napoleon and Les Misérables. Visitors can explore the vast interiors or stroll the riverside grounds, soaking in its historic grandeur.  

Painshill Park, Surrey 

Painshill in Surrey offers 18th-century landscaped gardens with picturesque follies, a crystal grotto and a serene lake. The lush grounds of Painshill Park featured in the Netflix hit show Bridgerton. Completed in 1773, Charles Hamilton crafted the gardens, drawing inspiration from his Grand Tour of Europe and passion for Renaissance art. The lake, bridge and gently rolling landscape all feature in Bridgerton, with Painshill the star of season three, episode three, when the Hawkins Hot Air Balloon loses control and Colin steps in to save the day. 

Paddington Bear Experience 

Visitors can now journey through Paddington’s iconic stories at the Paddington Bear Experience in London, launched in 2024. They can join the little bear in solving puzzles, while completing challenges and exploring themed environments from his world in this interactive adventure.    

Getting around

Getting around: Mainline train routes from London into Sussex and Kent operate from London Bridge and London Victoria stations. The route to Brighton takes around one hour. 

Stop 2 – Sussex and Kent

Now to discover some of southeast England’s most iconic film locations. Visitors can head to the Seven Sisters Country Park, where scenes from Fantastic Beasts were filmed or enjoy a scenic ride on the Bluebell Railway featured in Downton Abbey and The Woman in Black. Kent boasts plenty of filming locations too, from Fort Amherst featuring in fantasy series, The Witcher, to Hever Castle known from adventure romcom, The Princess Bride.

VisitBritain

Woman standing on the beach near the pier at sunset
Seven Sisters, East Sussex 

Grab a wand and prepare for some movie magic at the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs, an iconic part of the Sussex Heritage Coast. The white cliffs made a cameo in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, serving as a mystical backdrop for scenes featuring Newt Scamander (played by Eddie Redmayne) and friends. Part of Seven Sisters Country Park, this prime spot for walking and wildlife spotting is renowned for its sweeping coastal views and dramatic white cliffs shaped by centuries of erosion. 

Hever Castle, Kent 

Hever Castle isn’t just steeped in Tudor history; it also holds a special place in pop culture – especially for fans of The Princess Bride. The castle served as a backdrop for the film’s iconic scenes, bringing to life the ‘Cliffs of Insanity’ and other dramatic environments. Today, visitors can explore this magnificent castle, once home to King Henry VIII’s second wife Anne Boleyn, and soak in its medieval charm, from the impressive interiors to its beautiful gardens. Adventure-seekers can channel their inner Westley and try outdoor activities, including archery, or test their sense of direction to find a way out of the yew maze.  

Penshurst Place, Kent 

Penshurst Place in Kent, with its impressive medieval architecture and well-kept grounds, is another set jetting location for fans of The Princess Bride. The historic Barons Hall provided the backdrop for the dramatic duel between Inigo Montoya and Count Rugen. Beyond its cinematic claim to fame, Penshurst has a rich history, from its royal connections to its beautifully preserved interiors and gardens. The estate was also used in films like The Other Boleyn Girl. Visitors can explore the newly opened Victorian Kitchen or stroll through the gardens and grounds. Children can work off some energy at the adventure playground. 

 

Fort Amherst, Kent 

Step into the world of The Witcher at Fort Amherst, a fortress steeped in history. In the fantasy series, this atmospheric location set the stage for dark dungeon scenes with Rience, the sorcerer. Originally built to defend against Napoleonic invasions, Fort Amherst’s eerie tunnels and dramatic architecture bring the medieval atmosphere of the series to life. Visitors can explore the labyrinthine passages and even join ghost tours or spirit investigations

The Historic Dockyard, Chatham, Kent 

The Historic Dockyard offers a dramatic slice of maritime heritage and has starred in period dramas, including Sherlock Holmes (2009) and its sequel Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows. This sprawling 80-acre site, brimming with Georgian and Victorian architecture, set the stage for Guy Ritchie’s take on Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic mysteries. The iconic docks helped bring 19th-century London to life, hosting suspenseful scenes starring Robert Downey Jr.’s eccentric Holmes. Seasonal events and temporary exhibitions take place throughout the year. 

 

Hangloose Adventure, Kent 

Those tracing the footsteps of The Princess Bride across Kent and who want to channel their inner adventurer, can head to Hangloose Adventure at Bluewater. Soar like the Dread Pirate Roberts on England’s longest zipline – travelling 720 metres past chalk cliffs and lakes at speeds of up to 50mph. Brave thrill-seekers can conquer Europe’s tallest swing or go flying in the UK’s only outdoor wind tunnel. This adrenaline-packed experience offers plenty of adventure, conveniently paired with nearby shopping and dining options. 

Bluebell Railway, East Sussex 

All aboard for a cinematic journey through history at the Bluebell Railway in East Sussex. This heritage railway, with its historic stations and vintage steam trains, has featured in The Woman in Black for a chilling Victorian vibe and added period charm to productions including Downton Abbey,Sherlock Holmes, and The Theory of Everything. Visitors can soak in the authentic 19th-century atmosphere while enjoying scenic rides through the Sussex countryside. For a special treat, visitors can enjoy Pullman dining or channel their inner Sherlock at a Murder Mystery Evening

Royal Pavilion, Brighton, East Sussex 

Brighton’s iconic Royal Pavilion, with its exotic domes and opulent interiors, is one of the key locations in My Policeman. This architectural gem, built as a pleasure palace for King George IV, sets the stage for moments in Harry Styles’ romantic drama, capturing the glamour of the 1950s. While fans of the film can soak up the cinematic vibes, all visitors can appreciate its lavish decor and stunning gardens. 

Brighton Palace Pier, East Sussex  

Brighton Palace Pier, with its iconic seaside charm, features in My Policeman as the backdrop for a romantic montage between Marion and Tom. This classic Edwardian pier, bustling with arcade games and carnival rides, offers the ultimate nostalgic seaside experience. Open daily from 11 am, it is an activity-filled spot to visit for families, couples, or fans of vintage seaside flair. Brighton’s vibrant promenade, lined with cafes, bars and restaurants, makes it a fun day out with plenty of photo-worthy scenery. 

Getting around

Getting around: It is a three-hour drive from Brighton to Bath, the next stop on this itinerary. Alternatively, visitors can take a train back to London, before moving on to Bath from there. The train from London Paddington to Bath Spa takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. 

Stop 3: Bath and Gloucestershire

This leg of the trip explores Bath, where visitors can explore filming locations for Wonka and delve into Jane Austen’s world. Don’t miss No.1 Royal Crescent, a standout from Bridgerton and Wonka, or take a Bridgerton tour for an immersive experience.

The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa

External view of regency style curved row of buildings with a field of blurred out daffodils in the foreground.
No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath 

The elegant Georgian architecture of Bath creates the magical backdrop for many period dramas, from Jane Austen adaptations to Netflix hit Bridgerton. The Royal Crescent and surrounding areas are also featured in the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory prequel, Wonka, adding a touch of grandeur to the famous chocolatier’s fantastical world.  

Bridgerton Tour, Bath 

The Bridgerton Tour of Bath invites fans of the Netflix series to step into the glamorous world of Regency-era society. This guided tour takes visitors to some of the show’s most iconic locations, including the Royal Crescent and the Assembly Rooms, where many of the lavish ball scenes were filmed. As they explore Bath’s cobbled streets, visitors discover how the city’s Georgian architecture captured the opulence of the Bridgerton universe. 

 

The Pump Room Restaurant, Bath 

Fans of Bridgerton or Jane Austen can step into history and high society at the Pump Room Restaurant in Bath. Adjacent to the Roman Baths, this elegant dining spot offers a true Regency experience. Enjoy a decadent afternoon tea under dazzling chandeliers, with live classical music setting the scene – just as one would imagine for a Bridgerton soirée.  

Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein, Bath 

Visitors can step into a spine-tingling world at Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein. Inspired by the iconic Frankenstein, this immersive escape room offers several haunting scenarios, including ‘Victor’s Lair’, where visitors race against time to crack the code of a mad scientist’s psyche. For extra chills, visitors can try ‘The Shallows’ or ‘Body in a Suitcase.’ Afterward, they can explore the museum’s cinematic homage to Shelley’s masterpiece and meet a towering 8ft animatronic creature. 

Berkeley Castle, Gloucestershire 

A 50-minute drive from Bath, Berkeley Castle in Gloucestershire is a prime spot for Poldark fans. This historic fortress, with its rich medieval heritage, played a starring role as a filming location in the hit TV series (BBC/PBS). Known for its stunning architecture and picturesque grounds, Berkeley Castle captures centuries of history, from its Norman origins to its role in present-day storytelling, told via a guided or self-guided tour. Farm-to-table dining is also available at The Kitchen Garden restaurant. 

Getting around:

Getting around: The drive from Bath to Bodmin is approximately 150 miles and takes around three hours. 

Stop 3: Cornwall

Cornwall is not just a scenic coastal escape – it is also a prime destination for film fans! From Poldark to House of the Dragon, this stunning region has provided the backdrop for some of TV’s most iconic moments. In this leg of the set-jetting journey across Britain, visitors will dive into Cornwall’s cinematic history, where rugged coastlines, historic mines, and island castles set the scene for gripping drama.

The Bay Hotel 2024

A quaint seaside village with moored boats and traditional housing.
Bodmin Jail  

For fans of Poldark or anyone intrigued by history with a hint of the macabre, Bodmin Jail won’t disappoint. This atmospheric 18th-century prison, now an immersive museum, was a filming location for the hit BBC/PBS series using its eerie charm to create suspenseful scenes. As visitors explore the interactive exhibitions and soak in the haunting atmosphere, they will uncover chilling tales of its past inmates and step into the world of Poldark. Guided tours and paranormal experiences only add to the jail’s intrigue. 

Botallack Mines  

Jaw-dropping coastal scenery awaits at The Botallack Mines. Set on the rugged Tin Coast – part of the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site – the historic mines with their iconic engine houses were the backdrop for Ross Poldark’s many escapades. Once a hub of Cornish mining, they now offer visitors a glimpse into the area’s industrial past, complete with narrow coastal paths and stunning ocean views. Managed by the National Trust, dive into the world of Poldark fans and British heritage.  

Cornwall Underground Adventures, near Helston 

For Poldark fans seeking an adventurous twist, Cornwall Underground Adventures offers a unique dive into the mining heritage that inspired the series. Located near Helston, this immersive experience takes visitors deep into real Cornish tin mines, including sites like those seen on screen. Guided tours explore the narrow tunnels and dramatic history of the miners who once worked these depths, creating a sense of stepping into Poldark’s world. Suitable for adventurers of varying skill levels, the tours even offer abseiling challenges for thrill-seekers.  

Kynance Cove  

Nestled on Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula, Kynance Cove boasts turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs and white sandy beaches. Not surprisingly, in House of the Dragon, it doubled as a fantasy backdrop for the Targaryen saga. Beyond its cinematic appeal, the cove offers scenic walks, wildlife spotting and a charming eco-friendly café. Visit during low tide to explore its famous caves and rock formations – but do watch out for the rising tide.  

St Michael’s Mount  

St Michael’s Mount is another stunning location for fans of House of the Dragon, where it doubles as Driftmark’s High Tide Castle. This tidal island served as the dramatic backdrop for key scenes, including the funeral of Lady Laena and other Targaryen family moments. The causeway and medieval castle allow visitors to walk through a real-life Westeros, with views of the surrounding bay only adding to the island’s mythical appeal. Beyond the show, the island’s rich history and immaculate gardens make it a scenic spot to visit. 

Getting around:

Getting around: Drive back to Bath (around three hours) and spend another night in the spa city before moving on to Cardiff. Direct trains from Bath Spa station to Cardiff Central run regularly throughout the day and take around one hour. By car, the journey takes around one hour and 20 minutes. 

Stop 4: Cardiff and South Wales

Known for its connection to the Doctor Who series, Cardiff has become a hub for sci-fi enthusiasts, with the show being filmed at various locations in the city for over a decade. Beyond the small screen, Cardiff is a cultural gem with an enticing past, from Cardiff Castle to the Millennium Centre, offering visitors a mix of history and art.

VisitBritain/Rama Knight

Family walking in front of Cardiff Castle.
Cardiff Castle  

Cardiff Castle is a historic landmark spanning more than 2,000 years of history. Originally a Roman fort, it was later transformed into a Norman stronghold and, in the 19th century, reimagined as a Gothic Revival gem by architect William Burges. With its richly decorated interiors and imposing towers, the castle is one of Wales’ most striking attractions. As a filming location, it has appeared in productions including Doctor Who and the TV series Sherlock, providing a dramatic backdrop for historical and fantasy scenes. Visitors can explore the castle’s history while walking through its beautifully preserved rooms and gardens. The castle also hosts regular events, including film screenings and live gigs, with Elbow, Sting and Alanis Morrissette among those due to perform in 2025. 

Castell Coch  

Castell Coch, or ‘Red Castle’, is a 19th-century Gothic Revival castle nestled in the woodlands of Tongwynlais, just outside Cardiff. Designed by architect William Burges for the third Marquess of Bute, the castle is known for its enchanting, fairytale-like appearance, with soaring turrets, intricate interiors and richly painted walls. Though originally built on the foundations of a much older medieval fort, Castell Coch was recreated in Victorian times to serve as a romanticised retreat for the rich and powerful. Its unique charm has made it a popular filming location, including several episodes of Doctor Who (‘Last of the Time Lords’ and ‘Nightmare in Silver’). 

Doctor Who Cardiff Walking Tour 

The Doctor Who Cardiff Walking Tour explores iconic filming locations across Cardiff, from Cardiff’s Civic Centre to Cardiff Bay. The 2.5-hour private tour includes stops at sites like the National Museum, Temple of Peace, and City Hall – each featured in scenes from the sci-fi show. Led by an expert guide, the tour starts at Alexandra Gardens and is suitable for fans of all ages. Tours can be booked for groups of up to 35 people. 

Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff 

The Wales Millennium Centre, a striking arts complex in Cardiff Bay, is renowned for its unique architecture, including an iconic inscription in Welsh and English on the building’s facade. Opened in 2004, it hosts various performing arts events, from opera to musical theatre, and has featured prominently in Doctor Who.Eagle-eyed fans will recognise it from the ‘New Earth’ episode in series two thanks to its futuristic appearance. 

St Fagans National Museum of History  

This award-winning open-air museum, located just outside Cardiff, highlights Wales’ rich cultural heritage through a collection of historic buildings and exhibitions. Renowned for its immersive displays, the museum also served as a filming location for Sex Education, with the Coach and Orchard Car Park doubling as Cavendish College (season four). Visitors can wander through beautifully reconstructed period buildings and enjoy interactive exhibits. The museum also hosts regular events, from ghost tours to pub quizzes, at its newly restored Victorian Vulcan Pub. 

Penarth 

Penarth, a picturesque seaside town on the outskirts of Cardiff, features prominently in Sex Education. The Paget Rooms (now a hire venue) acted as the hall for Moordale High in seasons one and two. Filming also occurred on the town’s Victorian pier, with the local Angling Club transformed into a ticket office for season three. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, dine at charming cafes and take in views of the Bristol Channel. 

 

Getting around

Getting around: Direct trains from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street take around two hours. Trains depart approximately every hour. Driving from Cardiff to Birmingham takes around two hours, covering about 100 miles (160 km).  

Stop 5 – Birmingham

This part of the itinerary blends film history with the rich culture of Birmingham. Discover the heart of the city on a cinematic tour that dives into the world of Peaky Blinders, from the streets of Digbeth to the Black Country Living Museum, which brought to life the industrial backdrop of early 20th-century Birmingham. Fans can also explore the vibrant Jewellery Quarter and spot locations that are firm fixtures in the Shelby family’s world.

VisitBritain/Storyman

A group of people paddleboarding past the Regency Wharf in Birmingham.
Black Country Living Museum, Dudley  

This open-air museum in Dudley, part of an area known as the ‘Black Country’ for the soot produced by its many iron foundries, is just a short train-ride from Birmingham and showcases the rich industrial heritage of the Midlands. It also served as a vivid backdrop for Peaky Blinders, featuring authentic reconstructions of local landmarks, including Charlie Strong’s scrap metal yard and the Workers’ Institute, all of which appear throughout the series.  

 

Digbeth, Birmingham 

Digbeth, a vibrant district in Birmingham, is well-known for its industrial heritage, lively food and drink scene, and its connection to the popular Peaky Blinders series. The area serves as a backdrop for many scenes, immersing fans in the gritty atmosphere of 19th-century Birmingham. Today, Digbeth has transformed into a cultural hub, boasting an eclectic mix of street art, independent shops and lively food markets. Visitors can explore its artistic flair and enjoy trendy bars and music venues.  

Grand Central, Birmingham 

Used to depict an airport terminal in Mission Impossible 7, Birmingham’s Grand Central station, along with the Bullring, makes up the largest shopping destination in the city, home to the likes of Selfridges, Treetop Adventure Golf and Mowgli, which serves up an array of Indian and Vietnamese-inspired food.  

Getting around

Getting around: Direct trains from Birmingham New Street to York take around two hours. By car it takes around two hours 30 minutes (120 miles/193km). 

Stop 6 – Northeast England: Yorkshire, Durham and Northumberland

Explore the stunning landscapes and historic sites of northeast England featuring iconic filming locations. Begin in York, home to the York Minster, which appeared in The Crown, and spy nearby Castle Howard, known for its role in Bridgerton. In Durham, visitors can marvel at the breathtaking Durham Cathedral which served as a backdrop in various productions, including Harry Potter.

VisitBritain/Sam Barker

Woman wearing trench coat and pink hat walking
York Minster, 
York 

York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, starred in The Crown as Westminster Abbey. Its stunning architecture, with stained-glass windows and towering spires, provided the backdrop for the series’ depiction of key royal events, including Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation and other important moments in British history. 

All Creatures Great and Small Tour, from York 

Brit Movies’ All Creatures Great and Small Tour takes fans on a scenic journey through the Yorkshire Dales, visiting more than 15 filming locations from both the original 1970s series and the latest PBS adaptation. Starting from central York, highlights include the World of James Herriot, iconic spots like Darrowby Station and Skeldale House, and picturesque villages featured in the show. The tour also includes a visit to the Drovers Arms pub, featured in the original series.  

Castle Howard, 
near York 

This stately baroque mansion, with its grand interiors and landscaped gardens, featured prominently in Bridgerton as the opulent Clyvedon Castle, the home of the Duke and Duchess of Hastings. Visitors can explore its expansive gardens, which include the Skelf Island adventure playground for children. Additionally, the estate hosts various events throughout the year, from concerts to seasonal festivals. Unique architectural gems on the grounds include the Temple of the Four Winds and the Aztec Pyramid. 

 

North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Pickering to Whitby 

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway offers a scenic 24-mile route through the landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales, running between Pickering and Whitby. This heritage railway has been used for numerous film and TV productions, including scenes in Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018) and the recent All Creatures Great and Small TV adaptation. Passengers can enjoy travelling on a historic steam train while taking in views of rolling hills, medieval castles and charming villages. The railway also hosts special experiences and themed journeys, including Pullman dining, afternoon tea and seasonal events. 

The World of James Herriot, Thirsk, North Yorkshire 

The World of James Herriot museum, located in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, brings to life the world of the renowned vet-turned-author, James Herriot. Set within his former 1940s veterinary surgery, the museum offers interactive exhibits, original artifacts and a recreated surgery, immersing visitors into Herriot’s life and work. Fans of All Creatures Great and Small can enjoy behind-the-scenes insights and step into the very rooms where Herriot wrote his stories. 

Durham Cathedral, Durham 

With its striking gothic architecture, Durham Cathedral took a starring role in the Harry Potter series. The cathedral’s Chapter House saw Professor McGonagall teach young wizards how to transform animals into water goblets. Additionally, the cloisters served as the backdrop for other scenes, including Ron Weasley succumbing to his slug-vomiting curse in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. The cathedral’s snow-covered quadrangle also provided the setting for Harry first letting Hedwig take flight in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

Beamish The Living Museum of the North, near Durham

Beamish Museum, a 20-minute drive from Durham, is an open-air museum located near Stanley in County Durham, England. Relive daily life in the northeast of England from the 19th and 20th centuries amid a collection of relocated and replica buildings, including a Victorian town, a 1940s farm and a coal mine. Spanning more than 350 acres, the open-air museum provided a bustling backdrop for the first film adaptation and many episodes of Downton Abbey.  

Alnwick Castle, Alnwick 

Alnwick Castle, in Northumberland, promises a dose of wizarding magic, having appeared in the first two Harry Potter films. The Outer Bailey saw Harry experience his first flying lesson, while the Inner Bailey provided the setting for the infamous Whomping Willow scene when Ron and Harry crash-land the Weasley’s flying car. Visitors can immerse themselves in the magic of the films by participating in broomstick training, exploring the beautiful gardens, and taking guided tours that delve into the castle’s rich history and its role in various films.  

Bamburgh Castle, Bamburgh 

This coastal fortress with its striking medieval features has featured in The BFG (2016) and Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023). In The BFG, Bamburgh Castle’s dramatic cliffs and beaches bring Roald Dahl’s fantastical landscapes to life, with scenes capturing the giant’s footsteps along the coastal shores. More recently, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny utilised the castle’s grand architecture, entrance, and courtyard, transforming it into a German-occupied fortress set in 1944. Visitors can explore the castle and heritage exhibitions before venturing to the nearby beaches for scenic views and coastal walks.  

Lindisfarne (Holy Island)

Lindisfarne, also known as Holy Island, is a remote tidal island off the coast of Northumberland, only accessible by a causeway at low tide. Known for its stunning scenery and historical sites like Lindisfarne Priory and Lindisfarne Castle, the island has been used in various film productions, including Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. Lindisfarne Castle, perched on a rocky hill, offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape and is now a National Trust property open to visitors. The island also features nature reserves and peaceful beaches for coastal walks. The Lindisfarne Centre provides additional information about the island’s rich heritage. Visitors can reach Lindisfarne by car or bus, timing their visit with the tide. 

Getting around

Getting around: Bamburgh Castle is a 30-minute drive from Alnwick. Several bus services are also operating between the two destinations. The drive from Bamburgh to Lindisfarne is around 20-30 minutes depending on the tides. Visitors are advised to check the tide times before crossing the causeway, as it becomes inaccessible during high tide. 

Edinburgh is less than two hours by car from Lindisfarne. To get to Edinburgh by public transport, take a taxi to Berwick-upon-Tweed, the nearest mainline station (25 mins). From Berwick-upon-Tweed, direct trains to Edinburgh Waverley Station take about 45 minutes with frequent services throughout the day. 

Stop 7: Edinburgh

The Scottish capital has been a prominent filming location for many TV shows and movies from productions like Danny Boyle’s Trainspotting (1996), shot on Princes Street and around Waverley Station, to Netflix mini-series One Day (2024). Another significant hit TV series filmed in Edinburgh is the popular Outlander. As visitors explore Edinburgh’s picturesque streets and historic landmarks, they will discover the very settings that brought these stories to life.

VisitBritain/Moumita Paul

Two people looking at and photographing the skyline.
Edinburgh Old Town 

In Outlander Season 3, Edinburgh’s Old Town plays a key role for the first time, with several significant locations along the Royal Mile featured in the storyline. Fans will recognise Bakehouse Close as the spot where Claire and Jamie have their reunion after being separated for 20 years. Tweeddale Court is transformed into an 18th-century market, and the Signet Library also makes an appearance, with its elegant interior standing in for the Governor’s mansion in Jamaica. Edinburgh Castle sits proudly at one end of the Royal Mile – experience its magic on an official guided tour

 

Arthur’s Seat 

This prominent hill, located in Holyrood Park, serves as a striking backdrop in the Netflix mini-series One Day, based on the novel by David Nicholls. In the first episode, it is the setting for a hungover hike between the characters Dex and Emma. This ancient volcano offers views of Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, making it a popular destination for picnics, selfies and scenic walks. The Palace of Holyroodhouse, one of the King’s official residences, is at the end of the Royal Mile, closest to this green space. 

James Bond Tour, from Edinburgh 

Starting in Edinburgh,The James Bond Tour takes visitors on a journey through some of the most iconic filming locations associated with the legendary spy. This self-drive holiday spans eight nights, allowing fans to explore the landscapes of Scotland, including Glencoe and the Isle of Skye, both featured prominently in Skyfall. The tour includes eight nights of accommodation, car rental and entrance to various attractions, such as the Macallan Distillery

Outlander Explorer Tour  

This full-day guided tour takes visitors through some of Scotland’s most iconic filming locations featured in the Outlander TV series. Departing from Edinburgh, the tour takes fans to key sites such as Doune Castle, which stands in for Castle Leoch, Linlithgow Palace, which appears as Wentworth Prison, and Blackness Castle, used as Fort William. Along the way, visitors can marvel at the stunning scenery and historic landmarks, while learning about the show’s production and the real-life history behind the locations. Visitors preferring more flexibility and independence can try a self-guided Outlander locations tour

Rosslyn Chapel, Stirling Castle and Dunfermline Abbey Tour, from Edinburgh 

Dive into (cinematic) history on this guided tour through Scotland’s rich past. From the mystique of Rosslyn Chapel, immortalised in The Da Vinci Code, to Dunfermline Abbey, the burial site of Scottish kings and queens, this tour combines historical insights with set-jetting, catering for history enthusiasts and film buffs alike. 

 

Key destinations

Discover world-leading museums and galleries, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and a city brimming with history and culture.

VisitBritain/Hazel Parreno

Picadilly Circus underground station

Famed for its Roman spa and Georgian architecture, the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath has long been celebrated as a wellness and cultural retreat.

VisitBritain

Woman in the swimming pool, Thermae Bath Spa, Bath, Somerset, England.

Britain’s second largest city, Birmingham is an industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart.

West Midlands Growth Company

Historical building, with a clock tower, beside a fountain

Explore Wales’ capital city Cardiff, famed for its iconic rugby stadium, Victorian shopping arcades, and thriving food scene.

VisitBritain/Ben Selway

A gay couple, with arms linked, shopping indoors

Explore Edinburgh, capital of Scotland, the world’s leading festival city and home to 10 international festivals.

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Image Edinburgh

A young couple taking a selfie of view over historic town

York is a medieval walled city with Viking and Roman heritage, famed for its magnificent cathedral and abundance of museums.

VisitBritain/Sam Barker

Image York

Woman wearing trench coat and pink hat walking through narrow historic street of York, North Yorkshire, England.

Film and TV itineraries

See the real star of the show

See the real star of the show

Return to Starring Great Britain campaign page