Star-studded TV and Film Locations Near Our Properties

There is no better feeling than watching a film on the big screen or discovering a brand new favourite TV show. Nowadays especially, we have access to a plethora of TV and film choices, from cult classics and Hollywood blockbusters to small following indie productions, the choices are endless.

The great news for our movie-buff guests is that you can experience first-hand your favourite TV shows or films by visiting the many star-studded filming locations surrounding our properties. From Northumberland and Yorkshire to North Wales all our properties have seen their fair share of TV and film, so depending on where you are staying, you could visit these iconic locations.

Northumberland

Alnwick Castle

It is no surprise that the beautiful and mesmerising Alnwick Castle has been the filming site for a number of beloved TV shows and films. The Outer Bailey and surrounding grounds are well known to most people as area dedicated to flying lessons in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. We all watched that scene and wished we could take part in the fun and try out for the quidditch team, so why not join in on the Broomstick Training from the resident wizarding professors and begin your quidditch career! Tara, our Guest Relations Manager, gave this session a go on her family holiday and confirmed it was great fun, so why not get into the Harry Potter spirit and try it out on your visit.

Another famous show that was filmed at Alnwick Castle is the fan-favourite, Downton Abbey, where the interior of the castle is extensively used for the Christmas specials that aired in 2014 and 2015. Alnwick Castle was transformed into the magnificent Brancaster Castle for the period drama where the decadent State Rooms were used for the festivities; it certainly feels like stepping back in time when in these rooms, creating an amazing sense of nostalgia.

Alnwick Castle has also been home to the filming of Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and Blackadder, just to name a few. The ‘Alnwick on Location’ Film Tour will give even more insight into what scenes were shot and where, including some entertaining stories about the filming process and the actors who enjoyed their time at the castle.

Craster

The title of one the most iconic British TV dramas of all time must go to ITV’s Vera which first aired back in 2011. And now with 2023 showcasing the twelfth season, this long-standing show has amassed a large following for its enthralling mysteries, Vera’s captivating story and personality, and the use of Northumberland’s beautiful landscapes. The show is set predominately in Newcastle upon Tyne and throughout Northumberland; CTBR guests do not have to worry about travelling far to walk in the footsteps of lead actress, Brenda Blethyn, as Vera has been known to walk the harbour walls in Craster where several of our properties are located. Craster is a humble little fishing village, but it makes up for its size with its sheer amount of character, from the historic buildings and generational businesses to the quaint seaside cottages, it is evident why Vera visited and why our guests cannot get enough of Craster!

Vera has also been filmed at lots of other nearby locations, such as Blanchland, Alnmouth, Amble and The Farne Islands. All these places are breath taking and a must visit for any CTBR guest.

The Sycamore Gap Tree

The next filming location is an hour and a half drive from our Craster properties, but it is a journey worth taking for the amazing view that awaits. Our next film was released back in the 90s, making it one of the oldest on this list, but also one of the most treasured for its sense of nostalgia, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. With this film being the true definition of a star-studded movie, including Kevin Costner, Alan Rickman, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and Morgan Freeman, it was bound to be loved by watchers.

One of the most memorable scenes from the film is when Robin Hood fights Azeem with the backdrop of the mysterious Sycamore Gap Tree. This striking landscape can inspire awe in anyone who beholds it, whether that is on the big screen or in person, but we do recommend making the visit for yourself to see this sublime filming location, so remember to bring your hiking boots on your next CTBR trip.

Hadrian’s Wall

Now this next entry is a little added bonus; Hadrian’s Wall has been confirmed by writer George R. R. Martin as the inspiration for The Wall in his famously adapted novel series, Game of Thrones. So although no actual filming took place for Game of Thrones on Hadrian’s Wall, it is still a remarkable sight to behold and a definite tick off the bucket list of any avid Game of Thrones fan. Just a 15 minute drive away from Sycamore’s Gap Tree where a Robin Hood scene was filmed, Hadrian’s Wall is the perfect additional stop to any fantasy film tour.

Yorkshire

Grassington

A number of TV shows and films have either been set or filmed in Yorkshire as its picturesque landscapes make for some dynamic and beautiful scenes that are irresistible to filmmakers and viewers alike. One of the most well-used filming locations in Yorkshire is the town of Grassington which has been extensively used for the TV show All Creatures Great and Small. During filming, The Square gets transformed into the 1930s and the famous vets’ surgery is setup ready for another case.

But All Creatures Great and Small is not the only celebrated show to be filmed in Grassington, the Secret Garden (1993) was filmed at the nearby village of Conistone Moor, a must see for the purest sense of nostalgia and the most picture-perfect scenery

Malham Cove

Next, we have another entry for all you Harry Potter enthusiasts – a scene from Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows was filmed at the cliffs of Malham Cove which is only a 30 minute drive away from our Yorkshire properties. This magnificent, sublime landscape saw Harry and Hermione set up camp on their long search for the horcruxes, the perfect setting for their turbulent and difficult search without Ron by their sides.

Another brooding film that has been shot on Malham Cove is Wuthering Heights (2011), where the foreboding and imposing nature of the Yorkshire Dales described in Emily Bronte’s namesake novel, Wuthering Heights, can be visualised and experienced. So, Malham Cove is a must visit for those who want to experience films with a flair for the dramatics.

Sutton Park

A very nearby visit for our CTBR Yorkshire guests is Sutton Park which is only a 15 minute drive away and has been a film set for the popular Gentleman Jack TV show. Gentleman Jack quickly became a fan favourite for its LGBTQ+ narrative which is based on real people and events. Sutton Park is the home of the protagonist’s, Anne Lister, lesbian lover, Ann Walker, and is a truly breath taking estate filled with beautiful gardens, ancient trees and mesmerising architecture and interior design – no wonder Sutton Park won a gold medal in the 2022 RHS Yorkshire in Bloom Campaign!

Kettlewell

Another quaint little village on our list which rocketed to fame is Kettlewell, which saw its stardom from the iconic film, Calendar Girls. This film tells the true story of a group of women who wanted to make a change, and they certainly achieved this. The casting alone was bound to make the film a popular one, stars included Helen Mirren, Julie Walters, Celia Imrie and Penelope Wilton, just to name a few. As you stroll through Kettlewell, you will be walking in the footsteps of these incredible actresses and experience the charm of the old-fashioned cottages, it might even inspire you to also try something new like the Calendar Girls ladies.

Gordale Scar

Or perhaps you want to be transported to another world while on your filming locations tour – that is certainly possible on your visit to Gordale Scar. On your way back from visiting Malham Cove, why not make a pit stop and take in the wonder that is Gordale Scar, a picturesque cavern that has been used for a ferocious battle in season two of Netflix’s The Witcher. The scene where Geralt of Rivia and Princess Ciri fight the mystical yet terrifying myriapod monster, but fear not, you will not bump into one of these on your travels!

North Wales

Portmeirion

The oldest TV on our list transports us to the surreal and magical seaside town of Portmeirion where the 1960s show, The Prisoner, was filmed. Portmeirion is a multicoloured haven and is just a 40 minute drive from our North Wales property in Dolgellau. Although these eccentric buildings were erected between 1925 and 1973, the history of Portmeirion goes all the way back to the 17^th century. And this history, along with the beautiful scenery and incredible writing and acting led this TV show to become a cult classic across the world, from America all the way to Australia. Portmeirion is just as surreal as The Prisoner makes it seem, and if you are visiting North Wales, it is worth a tour.

Dolgellau

Another beloved TV show filmed a TV special in the very same village as our property Tan Llan & Coach House, and that is everyone’s favourite soap, Eastenders. And what better storyline to follow than that of a beloved character too? Dolgellau saw Dot Cotton’s childhood story of being a wartime evacuee in ‘Dot’s Story’ which aired in 2003. The special highlighted the beauty of North Wales and the charm of life in Dolgellau, it showcases a simpler time, something which is still possible when you escape to the Welsh countryside today. Dolgellau was, and still is, the perfect juxtaposition of the hustle and bustle of city life to the tranquillity of Wales, and who would not want to stay the same place where the nation’s favourite soap character found happiness.

Beddgelert

The next filming location is great for action buffs as well as hiking enthusiasts as the town of Beddgelert is home to Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life. Angelina Jolie returned as her famous character, Lara Croft, in this movie sequel which sees the Welsh landscape of Nant Gwynant and lake Llyn Gwynant turn into a Chinese village and the Great Wall of China. To walk in the steps of Lara Croft, you will be taken along the mesmerising rolling hills and crystal clear waters, creating a true sense of adventure – a tick in the box for any intrepid explorer, just like Lara Croft.

Llanberis

And last, but certainly not least, is a filming location that attracts magic and fantasy at every turn. The lakeside village of Llanberis has become a favourite amongst filming directors due to its close proximity to a number of incredible filming sites. From Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) to Dinorwig Power Station’s enchantingly blue lake, Llanberis is the place to be to capture both the brutality and beauty of the Welsh landscape. Notable works that have been filmed in and near Llanberis include the gruesome Clash of the Titans (2009) and BBC’s Merlin, in fact, both works travelled the length and breadth of Snowdonia during filming, so you are probably never too far from a famous filming location.

Those were the nearby filming locations surrounding our properties in Northumberland, Yorkshire and North Wales, and whether you enjoy your TV and films or not, they are still incredible places to visit, both for the scenery, the people and the activities.

For further information on our properties and their availability all year round contact us on 01829 830 388 or email at info@catchthebreeze.co.uk. And do not forget to tag us in any pictures you may take and use the #MyCTBR, we love seeing your fabulous pictures and all the fun you have whilst staying with us in our properties.

Other News

Where to Hike in Winter in the UK - National Parks

Jan 2022

With the colder months here for the foreseeable future, you may need to put on an extra layer before you set off on a…

Catching the 2022 Breeze

Feb 2022

Welcome to Catch the Breeze Retreats’ first of many blogs, filled to the brim with all our news, updates, and…

What to do in Snowdonia When it Rains

Mar 2022

March – a month that is often filled with unpredictable and transitional weather as we slowly move into Spring, the…