7 minute read
Set-Jetting in England
Whether you’re the biggest Bridgerton fan or a lover of romantic comedies, England is the perfect destination for you. From refined cities to wild coastlines, Dream Escape's England itineraries let you discover a range of locations as seen on the big screen. So, it's time to leave the popcorn at home, and step out on set...
Live like high society in Bath
The picturesque city of Bath is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and looks like a filmset from every angle. The Royal Crescent doubles as the filming location for the Netflix hit Bridgerton. Look out for the Featherington’s residence, which is actually Number 1 Royal Crescent, try a traditional Champagne afternoon tea in one of Bath’s grand hotels or hop in a horse-drawn carriage and ride through the storied streets in high-society style. For more period-drama magic head to Iford Manor, just outside the city. This is where the BBC adaptation of Nancy Mitford’s The Pursuit of Love was filmed, and the lush gardens and recognisable cloister will take you back to the glamorous interwar period.
Discover magic and action in Oxfordshire
A city steeped in history and culture, Oxford is the obvious choice for a filmset. Explore one of Dream Escape’s favourite locations, Christ Church College – this atmospheric place served as the inspiration for the dining hall in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. Follow in the footsteps of Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson and take in the college's stunning architecture and landscaped gardens on a private tour.
Or, enjoy a private evensong in Exeter College’s 14th-century chapel (not available to the general public) before seeing some of Oxford’s film-related landmarks from the water. Dream Escape can arrange a punting trip with a Champagne picnic hamper to help you feel like a film star for the day. And of course, don’t leave before paying a visit to the silver screen gem, Blenheim Palace. Mission Impossible, Indiana Jones and James Bond's Spectre are all films that have all used the grand palace as inspiration. Peruse the gilded state rooms or take a private tour of the Duke of Marlborough's apartments –complete with secret corridors and a history of illustrious guests.
Embrace charm and history in the home counties
This beautiful set of counties has a starstudded reputation. In Surrey, Dream Escape will take you on a guided tour of the town of Godalming and the village of Shere to see some of the most charming countryside spots in England. It’s no wonder this area was chosen as the filming location for The Holiday. Head to Buckinghamshire for a visit to Stoke Park. Renee Zellweger and Hugh Grant enjoyed an opulent minibreak here in Bridget Jones’ Diary, while Daniel Craig shot Tomorrow Never Dies within the walls of this distinguished, white manor. And lovers of historical dramas like The Other Boleyn Girl and Mary Queen of Scots will definitely recognise Penshurst Place in Kent. Enjoy a private visit with Dream Escape and explore the stately home, with its 11 acres of peaceful gardens.
Take in the grandeur of Hampshire
Get closer to one of the most popular period dramas of all time, Downton Abbey, with a visit to its home, Highclere Castle. Explore its extraordinary gardens and rooms that have been the Crawley family’s home for six whole seasons. Or, head to pretty Winchester – the city’s majestic cathedral doubled as the Vatican in the adaption of Dan Brown’s thriller, The Da Vinci Code and was used multiple times as a location for The Crown.
Indulge your literary nostalgia in The Lake District
If you're a lover of Beatrix Potter, then the Lakes is the destination for you. First, visit Farmhouse Cottage on Yew Tree Farm. The children’s author lived in this quaint cottage and bequeathed it to the National Trust in her will. It was used as Miss Potter’s home in the film of the same name, and over the years everyone from Emma Thompson to The Queen has paid a visit.
Dream Escape will take you on a Beatrix Potter-themed tour, where you can explore the classic English countryside that inspired so many of her stories. You can also pay a special visit to Castle Cottage, Near Sawrey – where the author lived until she died. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the cottage garden while admiring the views of Hilltop Farm and the resident herd of Herdwick sheep.
Experience Yorkshire’s star power
One of the most famous filming locations here is the historic city of York, which is featured throughout the Harry Potter series. Get lost in the city's winding streets and medieval architecture –imagining the magical feel of Diagon Alley – before a private visit to the magnificent York Minster Cathedral.
One of the most famous stately homes in Yorkshire, Castle Howard, should also be on your must-visit list. This magnificent 18th-century house has been the setting for TV shows and films, including Brideshead Revisited, Downton Abbey and Victoria. Enjoy a private lunch and tour of the house with its two symmetrical wings and Baroque features, before getting lost in the incredible grounds and gardens.
Then, there's the glorious Yorkshire Dales and Moors. All rolling hills, picturesque villages and pretty tea rooms, the National Park plays a starring role in Mission Impossible and Indiana Jones, and beloved veterinary series All Creatures Great and Small. Dream Escape will take you to explore the park's hiking trails and charming towns and on a private guided tour of the best film locations.
Top it off with an exclusive-use stay at the historic Broughton Hall, where part of the series was filmed. Choose between foraging and expert-led nature walks on the grounds or relaxing in the luxurious wellness centre.
Uncover wizardry and folklore in Northumberland
Northumberland is an exceptional destination captured on the big and small screen. It’s home to rugged shorelines, dramatic castles and breathtaking dark skies. Head for a private tour of Alnwick Castle, one of the largest castles in the UK. Imagine snowy owls delivering letters and Quidditch lessons, as this was where Harry Potter himself learnt to fly in The Philosopher’s Stone.
A lesser-known spot is the Farne Islands. Recognised as a National Nature Reserve, this group of small islands just off the coast served as a filming location for Robson Green's Tales from Northumberland. Dream Escape can arrange a special boat tour of the islands, where you can spot puffins nesting in the summer and dolphins surfing the waves all year through.
Head to Hogwarts in Durham
From luxury hotels and stand-out restaurants to rowing and hiking opportunities, this Northern city has so much to offer. But, one of its most special features is its connection to the Harry Potter films. In The Sorcerer’s Stone, Harry walks with his owl, Hedwig, through a snowy cloister at Durham Cathedral – which was used for various Hogwarts scenes.
Visit Cornwall’s camera-worthy coastline
Port Isaac is a small fishing village made famous as the filming spot for Doc Martin, a British TV show about a grumpy doctor who relocated from London to rural Cornwall. The village's narrow streets and whitewashed buildings make it instantly recognisable to fans of the show. You can take a stroll through the village, visit the local pub, or even take a guided tour of the filming locations.
Located on the cliffs at St Agnes Head, Wheal Coates is a disused tin mine that appeared in Poldark. The rugged coastline and outstanding views make it a Dream Escape favourite.
Or, discover the sandy beaches and sleepy streets of St Ives. This seaside town featured in Fisherman's Friends, a comedy-drama about a group of fishermen who become unexpected music stars.
WORDS | AMY BONIFAS
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