Haunting landscapes
28 Years Later: Part 1 brings the unsettling thrill of survival horror back to the big screen and Britain’s landscapes play a starring role, depicting the haunting beauty of a post-apocalyptic world. But for those who prefer their adrenaline rush with a side of adventure rather than a zombie chase, these filming locations double as exciting travel destinations, blending scenic countryside with history and pulse-raising activities.
Northumberland
28 Years Later was primarily filmed in Northumberland, with the county’s wild expanses and remote charm helping to bring the film’s dystopian vision to life. The Holy Island of Lindisfarne is a key setting for the protagonists’ struggle for survival. This rugged corner of England, with its windswept beaches and ancient castle, is used to capture the film’s eerie atmosphere. Reflecting the film’s survivalist theme in the heart of Northumberland is Hadrian’s Wall, a relic of Roman engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches across the region. Visitors can immerse themselves in the ancient past, whether they are hiking along its many trails or exploring the ruins of Housesteads Fort.
Just a short drive from Hadrian’s Wall, Hexham Abbey exudes history and mystery. Built in 1350, its grand medieval architecture houses dark corridors, ancient tombs and a ghostly crypt. For visitors who crave a bit of real-life action, Adventure Northumberland delivers, with a variety of rock climbing and kayaking sessions along the coast. Love the idea of being immersed in Northumberland’s raw landscapes, but prefer comfort over post-apocalyptic makeshift shelters? The region’s eco-friendly glamping pods provide a good balance of modern amenities with a taste of off-grid living.
Yorkshire
The Yorkshire Dales National Park, known for its dramatic waterfalls and rolling green hills, also stars in 28 Years Later. Beyond its moment on the big screen, Yorkshire offers endless opportunities for adventure. Follow in the footsteps of the survivors and explore Aysgarth Falls. Around four miles (6.5km) away, the village of Redmire sits on the edge of Wensleydale, offering picturesque walks, historic charm, and a chance to hop aboard the Wensleydale Railway, a heritage steam train route linking Scruton and Leyburn.
Yorkshire is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike the Three Peaks of Ingleborough, Pen-y-ghent and Whernside for jaw-dropping views or go caving in the vast underground labyrinth of White Scar Cave. History lovers can visit the ruins of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, a UNESCO-listed site hidden within a vast deer park, where film crews were spotted filming scenes for 28 Years Later. And for a taste of Yorkshire hospitality, stop off at a cosy country pub for a pint of locally brewed ale and a plate of Wensleydale cheese.
Somerset
With its sprawling countryside, ancient landmarks and ruins, Somerset is another setting for a world abandoned to nature in 28 Years Later. One of the film’s most striking locations is Cheddar Gorge, a dramatic limestone ravine that cuts through the Mendip Hills. Outside of the film’s dystopian vision, it’s an adventure-seeker’s paradise. Tackle the Cheddar Gorge Cliff Walk for breathtaking views, explore the depths of Gough’s Cave, or go rock climbing on the gorge’s rugged walls. A 20-minute drive away, the historic city of Wells adds a touch of medieval mystique, with its Gothic cathedral, cobbled streets, and the moody, cloistered arches of Vicar’s Close (said to be the oldest residential street in Europe). For a taste of Somerset’s wilder side, Exmoor National Park, in the west of the county, provides sweeping moorland and dense woodlands, and is a haven for walkers, cyclists, and stargazers. No visit to Somerset would be complete without embracing the local flavours. Swap survival rations for something more appealing – a pint of traditional Somerset cider or a ploughman’s lunch featuring some of the region’s finest cheeses.
Mission: Urban adventure
Tom Cruise is back, defying gravity, logic (and probably health insurance policies) in Mission: Impossible 8. But while lead character Ethan Hunt’s death-defying stunts might be best left to the professionals, visitors can still experience the same heart-racing thrills as some of Britain’s cities take a starring role. From treetop leaps to kayaking London’s waterways, it is time to channel that inner IMF agent – no classified clearance required.
London
London is no stranger to espionage, both in fiction and real life. Mission: Impossible 8 sees Hunt navigating the capital’s landmarks in a series of high-risk escapades, and visitors can follow suit. For those looking to experience the sheer adrenaline of a Mission: Impossible stunt, Go Ape Battersea is the place to be. Located in the heart of Battersea Park, this treetop adventure course offers everything from high-speed zip lines to wobbly crossings and Tarzan swings. Not all action sequences happen in the sky though. Previously in the Mission: Impossible series, London’s iconic River Thames starred as the backdrop for daring aquatic action, and visitors can experience similar excitement with the London Kayak Company. Paddling past landmarks like Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament, guided tours provide a fresh perspective of the city.
Birmingham
Birmingham’s Grand Central, situated above New Street Station, starred in Mission: Impossible 7, bringing high-speed tension to the heart of the Midlands. The shopping centre was transformed into Abu Dhabi International Airport for a major action set-piece sequence. While visitors won’t find themselves in a life-or-death battle atop a moving locomotive, they can still embrace the film’s travel-inspired thrills by hopping aboard the city’s scenic rail routes. Or, for those looking to get the pulse racing, tackle indoor rock climbing at Flash Climbing Centre – a test of any wannabe agent’s Impossible Mission Force (IMF)-level agility.
Into the Wild
Upcoming Apple TV+ film The Gorge promises thrilling action, with some of Britain’s most breathtaking landscapes in a starring role. This adrenaline-fuelled film has taken full advantage of Wales’ rugged terrain, where sheer cliffs and deep ravines create the setting for cinematic spectacle. Whether visitors are chasing the thrill of extreme sports or just want to soak up the stunning scenery, these filming locations and experiences will put them right in the heart of the action.
Llandudno and Snowdonia (Eryri)
With its sweeping Victorian promenade and dramatic Great Orme cliffs, Llandudno, on the northern edge of the Snowdonia National Park (Eryri), takes on a new role in The Gorge, blending its classic seaside charm with high-octane action. While best known for its nostalgic pier, sweeping Victorian promenade and cable cars, the town’s coastal scenery provides a striking backdrop for the film, including the dramatic Great Orme cliffs. Visitors can channel the movie’s daredevil energy with activities like rock climbing on the limestone cliffs, explore the eerie tunnels of the Great Orme Copper Mines or ride the historic tramway for panoramic views.
Those fascinated by the film’s aerial stunts can also take to the skies themselves. Nestled in Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park, Zip World Betws-y-Coed offers high-flying adventure in the treetops. With high-speed zip lines, including the thrilling Fforest Coaster, visitors can recreate the exhilarating action and vertigo-inducing heights of The Gorge. Those wanting to relive the film’s water-based sequences can take to the fast-flowing rivers of Snowdonia (Eryri) for a real-life adventure. Located on the River Tryweryn, the National White Water Centre delivers high-speed rafting experiences fit for an action hero.
