Welcome to the greatest set on earth. With an increasing number of film studios choosing to base their films in Yorkshire, we are seeing more of our great county in film and we welcome any fans who want to come and see the real life locations that have been filmed in Yorkshire. Hollywood spends millions creating sets for amazing shots to bring a film to life. But Yorkshire needs no touch ups, special effects or computer generated imagery (CGI). Our breathtaking scenic locations, historic buildings and thriving modern cities are living sets that need only a camera and a story to translate onto the silver screen. We are proud of our county’s film and television heritage and this is why we’ve created this guide, so that others can enjoy visiting the many different and unique locations that have graced the big and small screen. Sir Gary Verity Chief Executive, Welcome to Yorkshire
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Since 2012, Screen Yorkshire has been responsible for bringing around 30 high profile productions to the county for both the big and small screen. Recent months have seen a wealth of Hollywood superstars take to Yorkshire, with the big-screen adaptation of the classic British comedy, Dad’s Army, bringing the likes of Catherine Zeta-Jones, Bill Nighy, Michael Gambon, Toby Jones and Blake Harrison, to name a few. “We had a wonderful experience shooting Dad’s Army in Yorkshire. Its stunning locations give the film an epic scale and the people were beyond helpful,” says the film’s Bafta-winning producer, Damian Jones. For seven weeks, with assistance from Creative England, the cast and crew of the big-budget production shone the spotlight on East Yorkshire, transforming Bridlington’s Old Town into the fictional Walmington-on-Sea, while the imposing white cliffs of North Landing, at the nearby Flamborough Head, formed the backdrop for Walmington beach. Scarborough, Beverley, Loftus, Pickering, Leeds, and Helmsley also play a starring role in the film. Meanwhile, Hollywood stars Elle Fanning and Alex Sharp descended on Sheffield for the sci-fi romance, How to Talk to Girls at Parties. In West Yorkshire, Calderdale takes centre stage in the big-screen adaptation of the Arthur Ransom classic, Swallows and
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Amazons, and Ilkley Moor in the Hollywood blockbuster Miss You Already, featuring Drew Barrymore and Toni Collette. 2016 Oscar winner Alicia Vikander plays the lead role in the First World War epic Testament of Youth alongside Kit Harrington, Dominic West and Emily Watson with filming taking place across the county of Yorkshire. For the British comedy-drama, A Royal Night Out, starring Sarah Gadon, Bel Powley, Rupert Everett and Emily Watson, the centre of Hull was transformed into 1940s London, with Hull City Hall masquerading as the Ritz Hotel, and Alfred Gelder Street for London’s Piccadilly. Sally Joynson, chief executive of Screen Yorkshire says, “We are going through the renaissance of the region’s screen industry. Yorkshire is the biggest county in the UK and it needs a really strong voice for its screen industries. “In Yorkshire you can do pretty much whatever you want within a 30 to 40 mile radius. Really there is everything here but the desert and the Norwegian Fjords – because of that it is very cost effective.” The Yorkshire Studio’s first production, Victoria, is set to hit our screens this year after a mammoth seven-month shoot. The ambitious eight-part ITV drama series stars Doctor Who’s Jenna Coleman and follows the early life of Queen Victoria, from her
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In the spotlight The county is a screenwriter’s dream and Yorkshire is fast becoming a magnet for movie-makers and television dramas, lured by the eclectic mix of rolling countryside, spectacular coastlines, impressive stately homes and contemporary cities.
Left to right: Hull City Hall. Dad’s Army. Flamborough Head © martinwilsonimages. com. Drew Barrymore and Toni Collette in Miss You Already. Ribblehead Viaduct © Steve Finch Photography. Jericho.
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ascension to the throne at the tender age of 18, through to her courtship and marriage to Prince Albert. Recent years have also seen an increasing number of television producers recognising the diverse locations and experienced crew Yorkshire has to offer - Kay Mellor’s BBC drama, The Syndicate, was filmed at various locations around the county, BBC drama Jonathan Strange and
Mr Norrell spent four months filming in the county and Jericho, a bigbudget, eight-part series following a community of pioneers, settlers and outcasts who battle to build the iconic viaduct at Ribblehead, near Hawes, in the Yorkshire Dales. The bright lights of Yorkshire look set to continue to shine, it’s time to get out there and discover the greatest set on earth.
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Dive into drama Jump off the sofa and step behind the scenes into the world of Yorkshire’s not so small screen from soap operas to period dramas and children’s TV. As one of Britain’s best loved soap operas, Emmerdale has been delighting audiences since 1972, inviting the fictional Yorkshire Dales village and all its inhabitants into your home. For decades Emmerdale was filmed at Esholt, near Shipley where visitors can still wander around the village and visit the pub used as the famous Woolpack Inn. Since the 1990s, the Harewood Estate has been the main location for filming. Head to Leeds and check out the new Emmerdale Studio Experience which opens in September 2016.
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Follow in the footsteps of the famous vet James Alfred Wight as told through the wildly popular All Creatures Great and Small and call in to the World of James Herriot, where you can relive his experiences as a young veterinary surgeon in North Yorkshire and learn more about being a vet and life in the 1940s. A stones throw away is the town of Thirsk where you may find yourself in the spotlight of Channel 5’s The Yorkshire Vet which is based on the original James Herriot practice, Skeldale Veterinary Centre.
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Head to the village of Goathland, in the heart of the North York Moors National Park to discover how this once sleepy village was turned into Aidensfield for the 60s TV drama Heartbeat. Or make the short journey to the coast to Whitby and Scarborough where the fictional seaside town of Elsinby was based in the spin off drama The Royal. When it came to series five of Downton Abbey, the Yorkshire institution jumped at the chance to feature Bettys as a cameo appearance with a fictional version of the iconic café tea room - the window display even included the famous Fat Rascals. Yorkshire’s most stunning locations take centre stage in the romantic comedy Lost in Austen as Amanda Price (played by Jemima Rooper) enters the ‘real’ fictional world of Pride and Prejudice and swaps her life in London for that of Elizabeth Bennet (Gemma Arterton).
From Regency charm to the 1950s Cold War period, the BBC drama A Passionate Woman showcases the city of Leeds in Kay Mellor’s poignant love story starring Billie Piper. Families and fossil hunters should head to the picturesque coastal village of Staithes. The ancient fishing village is full of character and intrigue with adventure around every corner. Don’t forget to follow the new sticker trail to discover the locations of the CBBC programme Old Jack’s Boat starring Bernard Cribbins, who plays a retired fisherman. Or venture to the town of Halifax and meet Hank Zipzer, The World’s Greatest Underachiever, from CBBC’s funny and fast-moving series starring Henry Winkler alongside newcomer Nicolas James in the title role. Clockwise from top left: Emmerdale village. Staithes. Bettys Café Tearooms. Old Jack’s Boat. Roundhay Park in Leeds. Holmfirth’s famous cafe.
Vibrant, creative and most famous as the setting for Last of the Summer Wine, Holmfirth has inspired a variety of film and TV productions.
The Great British Export Against the stunning backdrop of the Peak District National Park, Holmfirth is packed with speciality shops and markets, bespoke art and artisan producers, tempting tea-shops, and has a crowded events programme from May through to November.
bootsteps of Compo, Nora and Clegg at Sid’s (Ivy’s) Café and the Last of the Summer Wine Exhibition. Stay at Nora Batty’s Cottage, decorated just to her taste, and take the vintage tour bus to some of the stunning Pennine filming locations.
A regular fixture is May’s Holmfirth Film Festival, with an exciting programme of popular films, live soundtrack night, great classics, the best documentaries, sing-a-longs, children’s favourites and new releases from the past year from the UK and around the world. The team show films throughout the year at The Picturedrome too – the town’s original Victorian cinema where you can enjoy a pint at the pictures, but which is more commonly used as an intimate music venue.
The dramatic countryside, historic buildings and amazing atmosphere mean that this area is the backdrop to a long list of TV dramas, including Jericho, Last Tango in Halifax, Happy Valley, In the Flesh and DCI Banks to name a few. Visit Oakwell Hall and Country Park – the atmospheric setting for Jonathan Norrell and Mr Strange, and with its Brontë connections, the perfect setting for Wuthering Heights and the earliest film version of Charlotte Brontë’s novel, Shirley, in 1921.
Shown across the world, the cheeky and gentle British comedy, Last of the Summer Wine was filmed in Holmfirth for more than 30 years. Such was the town’s appeal that Bill Owen (Compo) even chose it as his final resting place. You can tread in the
And for the ultimate film star experience, be pampered like a pro at Gomersal Park Hotel, Eastthorpe Hall, Alexandra House Spa or Titanic Spa. Plan your trip at www.visithuddersfield.com
Top to bottom: Oakwell Hall. Café culture. Blackpool Bridge. Last Tango in Halifax. Titanic Spa. Last of the Summer Wine.
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Yorkshire has the highest concentration of stately homes, castle and gardens in England so it’s not surprising film makers are turning to this great county for all their filming needs.
Stately scenes
Left to right: Castle Howard. Harewood House. Ripley Castle.
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Visit the magnificent Harewood House which, alongside Newby Hall, was an inspiration for the award winning TV series Downton Abbey and follow in the footsteps of the Earl and Lady Grantham. Harewood House has hosted a number of high profile productions, including hit festive comedy Get Santa as well as period dramas Death Comes to Pemberley and Lost in Austen.
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The extensive parkland and historic house of Stockeld Park was the ideal setting for Thrushcross Grange in Wuthering Heights. Enjoy a memorable day out with lots of adventure play and indoor fun for all the family. A fantastic day awaits you at Lotherton Hall near Leeds which featured in the 2009 film Sherlock Holmes. The charming Edwardian house and country estate has something for everyone to enjoy – explore the country house, bird garden, exhibitions, shop and stables or get lost in your thoughts on the woodland walks and playgrounds.
As well as being home to a real life Lord Grantham, Jane Austen’s Mansfield Park was filmed entirely on location at Newby Hall and Gardens near Ripon. Enjoy exploring one of Britain’s finest Adam interiors with Chippendale furniture, Gobelin tapestries, a contemporary sculpture park and 25 acres of award-winning gardens.
For many, Castle Howard will forever remain synonymous with Brideshead Revisited, the 1981 TV series starring Anthony Andrews and Jeremy Irons. Over the years, the house has played host to a range of film and television productions from Lady L, starring Sophia Loren in the 1960s, Stanley Kubrick’s Barry Lyndon in the 1970s and more recently the feature film adaptation of Brideshead Revisited, Death Comes to Pemberley and Victoria.
Head to Nostell Priory a Palladian mansion set in a large park near Wakefield, which was the perfect setting for the remake of The Forsyte Saga in 2002 starring Damian Lewis.
Visitors are often treated to a behind the scenes glimpse of the world of TV and film with stars and supporting casts often seen in the grounds taking a break from filming or waiting for their scenes to begin.
Oakwell Hall, near Batley offers visitors a real insight into a post English Civil War household and was used for the inside manor shots of the 2009 drama Wuthering Heights, starring Tom Hardy and Charlotte Riley as the famous lovers Heathcliff and Catherine. Take a step away from the hectic every day and experience the tranquillity that is East Riddlesden Hall, in Keighley. In contrast to the atmospheric exterior which was used for the Wuthering Heights manor house exteriors, this friendly house is brought to life through stories told by room guide volunteers.
Fascinating, memorable and entertaining, Ripley Castle and Gardens has been no stranger to film productions, featuring in the 1976 Disney film Escape the Dark and more recently featured in the 2011 remake of Jane Eyre starring Mia Wasikowska and Jamie Bell.
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Clockwise from top left: Castle Howard. Malham Limestone Pavements. York Minster. The Peak District. Keighley & Worth Valley Railway. Aysgarth Falls.
From Halifax to Hollywood Follow in the footsteps of your favourite film stars and discover villages, towns and cities featured in your favourite movies.
Discover the adventures of the four Walker children from Swallows and Amazons at Plumpton Rocks, Stockeld Park, the village of Heptonstall and There is a wonderful array of Keighley & Worth Valley Railway. beautiful scenery to explore in It is also here that The Railway the Yorkshire Dales National Park Children’s most famous scenes and there is no better way to were filmed. So climb aboard for discover it than on foot. Marvel at a fun family day out. the stunning Aysgarth Falls, one of Wensleydale’s favourite beauty Brassed Off is a classic British spots made famous by the Kevin film set in Yorkshire about pit Costner film Robin Hood: Prince closures and brass bands. Visit of Thieves and enjoy a pleasant the National Coal Mining Museum riverside walk linking the Upper, in Wakefield to experience life Middle and Lower Falls. as a Yorkshire coal miner, and the historic Piece Hall in Halifax Fall in love with film at the where some of the film was set. National Media Museum situated right in the heart of Bradford, the The village of Kettlewell was UNESCO City of Film. Explore used to represent the fictional seven floors of media forms in village of Knapely where the the FREE galleries, an extensive Calendar Girls lived. Enjoy collection and research facility, breathtaking scenery, fascinating and three cinemas including the nearby market towns and villages UK’s first IMAX theatre. in locations such as Burnsall,
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Skipton, Settle and Ilkley a perfect place to grab a spot of tea and an iced bun or two. This heartfelt story of friendship and love inspired Gary Barlow and Tim Firth to turn it into a musical which opened to rave reviews in Leeds before it heads to London where it will bloom on the West End in 2017. Take a trip to York and the city’s historic train station where a scene from Chariots of Fire was shot, without forgetting Harrogate where filming took place in the town’s oldest pub, Hales. Head for Elland Road, home of Leeds United and a key location for The Damned United starring Michael Sheen. Filming also took place at Headingley Stadium and in Leeds itself, make sure you pay a visit to the city’s vibrant shops, restaurants and bars.
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Visit the town of Barnsley and the surrounding villages to discover the story of Billy Casper the 15year-old working class Yorkshire lad who tames and trains his pet kestrel falcon named Kes. Little Voice, the award winning film starring Sir Michael Caine, Jane Horrocks and Ewan McGregor was shot mainly in Scarborough. From the rugged rocky headland to the bright beach huts of the award-winning sandy North Bay, Scarborough has all the ingredients you need for a classic beachside break. Bolton Castle and the Gothic York Minster was used for the coronation scenes in Elizabeth staring Cate Blanchett and Geoffrey Rush. York is often voted the best and most beautiful city in the UK and it’s not hard to see why with its super high-end shops and tangle of quaint cobbled streets. York also featured primarily in the 2015 British family adventure-comedy Bill along with other locations such as
Flamborough, Skipton Castle and Selby Abbey. The glorious Peak District and the city of Sheffield acted as the backdrop for the 2014 film X + Y and historically as the home to six unemployed steelworkers in The Full Monty, who are inspired by the Chippendale dances to form a male striptease. Sheffield has it all on one hand - it’s a thriving hub with music, sports and shopping scenes that draw in visitors from miles around. And on the other, it’s a city just minutes away from the exciting wilderness of the Peak District. There’s certainly something magical about Malham Cove, the famous cliff formation of limestone rock featured in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and when you are not hunting for horcruxes in the Yorkshire Dales, hop on-board a steam train at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and relive the journey to Hogsmeade Station (Goathland Station) in Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone.
Explore the beautiful grounds of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal where The History boys all enjoyed their picnic in the hit film, with scenes shot in the town of Halifax, explore the town or visit Eureka, the national children’s museum and enjoy learning through play. Visit the stunning Allerton Castle where The Secret Garden was filmed, a timeless film starring Dame Maggie Smith or visit Castle Howard and discover the mischief that was to be had in Garfield 2. Fans of the teen flick Wild Child can trace Poppy Moore’s (Emma Roberts) steps by visiting Robin Hood’s Bay, Harrogate and the beautiful town of Haworth. The city of Wakefield is home to The Hepworth, Wakefield and the inspirational Yorkshire Sculpture Park set in 500 acres of parkland. The city features in The Kings Speech alongside Scarborough and Elland Road.
There’s something magical about Malham Cove in the Yorkshire Dales.
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Brilliant Bollywood Outside of India the UK has the biggest audience for Bollywood films so it’s not surprising that when looking for locations for the 2015 film Shaandaar the UK and Yorkshire was top of the list. Audiences can see Yorkshire in a whole new technicolour, Bollywood-infused light in the new romantic Indian comedy starring Bollywood’s most popular leading man Shahid Kapoor and newcomer Alia Bhatt. Set in the backdrop of a wedding, two families try to save their respective empires, unbeknownst to each other as the drama unfolds during the celebrations. Filmed throughout the autumn of 2014, the comedy showcases all the beauty the county has to offer. Several historic houses are featured, including Skipton’s Broughton Hall, Temple Newsam House in Leeds, Harrogate’s Allerton Castle and North Yorkshire’s Carlton Towers.
Also featuring in the film were Goathland railway station on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Eddsfield Airfield in Driffield, Low Force waterfall near Barnard Castle, Leeds Grand Theatre and Opera House, and Saltburn by the Sea. “Filming in Yorkshire was great. The countryside here is beautiful and very different from anywhere else in England
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or Europe. We’d love to come round again soon,” said the film’s producer Vivek Bajrang Agrawal. His team worked alongside Creative England’s production services to secure locations, filming permissions and crew for the film. Shaandaar is just one of the many productions supported by Creative England.
Along with being the new destination for Bollywood productions, Bradford was once again crowned Curry Capital of Britain in 2015 for the fifth year in a row! A Bradford curry really is a must when you are visiting the city. You’ll find award winning restaurants in and around the city, from café-style favourites to impressive dining experiences. Try Prashad, a family run passionate Indian Vegetarian Restaurant, focussed on delivering real Indian culinary excellence matched with knowledgeable, warm and intuitive service. Or Hansa’s Gujarati Vegetarian Restaurant in Leeds. When Hansa Dabhi opened her iconic restaurant way back in 1986, she wanted to introduce Gujarati vegetarian cuisine, from the west of India, to the people of Yorkshire. Yorkshire is showcasing the region’s delights to millions of Bollywood fans across the world - as well as attracting other production teams to the county.
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Left to right: North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Saltburn. When the Bollywood ‘Oscars’ came to Sheffield.
Discover a paradise of sunlit glades and tumbling crystal clear brooks and shy woodland creatures.
Clockwise from top right: Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon in The Trip. The Angel Inn at Hetton. Holdsworth House. 1884 Dock Street Kitchen. Forest holidays in Keldy.
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Movie star treatment
Indulge yourself in a little VIP treatment on an Oscar worthy Yorkshire getaway and experience the very best spas, shopping, fine dining and luxurious accommodation Yorkshire has to offer. The Angel Inn at Hetton is one of the best known and loved inns in the county and quite simply a delightful place to both stay and dine. Stay over in one of the nine unique bedroom suites and studios and wake up to a real Yorkshire breakfast. Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon stayed here whilst filming The Trip. Or visit the Yorke Arms, a Michelin starred restaurant with rooms, nestled in the Nidderdale valley which also makes an appearance in the 2010 BBC series. At Holdsworth House, near Halifax, dinner is served by candlelight in the exquisite 17th century, oak panelled restaurant, which has held 2 AA Rosettes for over 13 years. The Long Bar has a wide selection of wines, whiskeys, cocktails and of course non-alcoholic drinks. From the Greenwood room with a luxury four-poster, super king size bed to the intimate Serenity Spa – all rooms at the Ashmount Country House are beautifully decorated and provide everything you need for a luxurious or romantic getaway in the heart of Brontë Country. If ever there was a place to feel that special magic of a fairytale forest, it’s in Keldy, a paradise of sunlit glades, tumbling crystal clear brooks and shy woodland creatures. At Forest Holidays in Keldy, cross the simple wooden bridge from the main Golden Oak cabin into an exclusive, en-suite room for two. The Golden Oak Treehouse benefits from all the luxuries of their main Golden Oak cabins and sleeps up to eight people. The treehouses have a spacious lounge, with a log burning
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stove, perfect for relaxing after a long day visiting film locations. Flowery Dell Luxury Pine Lodges are set in a peaceful valley just a mile from Richmond and are ideal for a romantic week or weekend break. Magical, breath taking, tranquil, peaceful, luxurious and outstanding are all words that describe this heavenly place. Located in the pretty village of Scalby on the edge of the North York Moors National Park, the Plough Inn is full of character and charm, the perfect setting for a pint, meal or an overnight stay in one of the eight luxury ensuite rooms or cottage. The Copper Horse Restaurant and Cottages are located just outside Scarborough in the picturesque village of Seamer, where Lucky Voice was filmed. The luxurious boutique style holiday cottages are all named after iconic London theatres and includes the Adelphi, Aldwych, Novello, Piccadilly, Lyceum and Palladium House. Hull’s 1884 Dock Street Kitchen is a sleek, luxurious tribute to the art and appreciation of good food in lavish surrounds. The Black Swan at Oldstead is the only pub in the north of England with a Michelin Star and 3 AA Rosettes. The original building of this Michelin Star Pub and Restaurant with rooms dating back to the 16th century and is set in a stunning rural location near Byland Abbey. Chef Tommy Banks cooks with the seasons and a real sense of nature, coupled with great passion and flair.
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Popcorn and pictures Like your cinemas small, cosy, experimental, and smart? Explore some of Yorkshire’s coolest cinemas where the imaginations of creatives come to life on screen in front of your very eyes. Cine North aims to improve access to cinema in isolated rural and hard to reach urban areas of Yorkshire by bringing a high quality digital cinema experience to audiences underserved by cinema provision. A year round programme of films can be seen at venues from village halls to stately homes, festivals and arts centres including the latest home-grown independent films to world cinema gems.
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The Stephen Joseph Theatre in Scarborough is a cultural icon in Yorkshire. Widely known for its world premieres of almost all of Alan Ayckbourn’s 75 plus plays, it shows a year-round programme of drama, music, comedy, dance, poetry and more. With many original Art Deco features, the theatre boasts two auditoria including The McCarthy, a 165-seat endstage which doubles as a cinema.
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Just down the road from Scarborough, nestled into the West Cliff is the Whitby Pavilion Cinema. The Victorian Theatre has wonderful views over the North Sea and the refurbished Northern Lights Suite provide a venue perfect for watching the latest blockbusters. Whilst at the seaside, pop to The Spotlight Theatre in Bridlington. Like many little theatres it is home to amateur and professional performances such as the 2015 production of Hamlet starring Benedict Cumberbatch. And don’t forget Filey Evron Centre which overlooks the stunning Filey Bay. Only the hardest of hearts could fail to fall in love with The Palace Cinema in Malton. It opened in 1934 following an Art Deco style refurbishment of the former Corn Exchange. The Corn Exchange was built in the 19th century and has a classical frontage onto Yorkersgate. Ilkley Cinema is a boutique, independent cinema proving that bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better. It has Europe’s smallest Ultra 4K digital single screen cinema and is dedicated to providing a totally unique experience to the local area.
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The quirky little civically owned Hebden Bridge Picture House is a cosy treat for the art-minded folks of this beautiful part of Yorkshire. Originally opened in 1921, this quirky little cinema became the main place of entertainment for the weavers, millworkers, and other residents of Hebden Bridge and the upper Calder Valley. As a Grade II listed building, the Hyde Park Picture House in Leeds still boasts many original features. The cinema operates as a main venue during the Leeds International Film Festival and is one of the oldest cinemas in the country. Indeed, if the larger end of the scale is what you’re after, the brilliant Everyman Cinema in Leeds is perfect for blockbusters or cult classics. It offers a unique experience beyond blockbusters delivering quality films, food and service within a luxury setting. Sneaky Experience provide pop-up cinema screenings in inspiring locations such as Kirkstall Abbey. Left to right: Hebden Bridge Picture House. Countryside around Hebden Bridge. Whitby. Hyde Park Picture House in Leeds. Whitby Pavilion Cinema. The Palace Cinema in Malton. Stephen Joseph Theatre. Ilkley Cinema. Everyman Cinema.
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THE PERFECT FILM LOCATION. Built by the Earl Fitzwilliam over 200 years ago, the village of Elsecar retains the original architecture and character of a bustling community during the industrial revolution. It is a perfect film location, offering an authentic backdrop to the era. The stunning buildings retain numerous period features, and the site includes a heritage railway and a fully restored Newcomen beam engine. Located in South Yorkshire just minutes from the M1 it is easily accessible.
For more information please email: film@barnsley.gov.uk
Dark dramas From gritty dramas to spine tingling crime thrillers, Yorkshire has never been one to shy away from the darkness.
If you love history and heritage head to Redcar and Cleveland and visit the many museums and attractions, or head to the dramatic coastline to follow the lives of young lovers Cecilia and Robbie in the sweeping English drama Atonement. Set in World War II, the epic scenes of Dunkirk were filmed on Redcar beach. Ryedale Folk Museum is nestled in the beautiful village of Hutton-le-Hole, in the North York Moors National Park and offers a unique glimpse of the past from the Iron Age to the 1950s. The museum was the setting for the home of the Bidwells, servants to the Darcy family in Death Comes to Pemberley. Head to the historic city of York to discover even more locations used in the thrilling homage to Jane Austen, including St Williams College and York Minster - the largest gothic cathedral in northern Europe. While you’re there venture into The Undercroft – a 2000 year heroic, historic and human journey through interactive chambers beneath the Minster revealing its colourful story from Romans through to the 21st century. Other locations included Harewood House, Castle Howard and Beverley Guildhall.
Not content with providing the setting for fictional towns, Yorkshire has even doubled up for other parts of the world – including Switzerland, for The Hunter’s Prayer. The $25m blockbuster was shot almost exclusively in Yorkshire, with actors Sam Worthington, Martin Compston and Odeya Rush filming scenes across a mix of urban and rural locations, including Leeds, Helmsley and Scarborough, as well as the pretty streets of Harrogate, which doubled up for Switzerland. Richard Knight, head of production at Screen Yorkshire, says: “I did some early scouting in Yorkshire, and I was slightly worried that the crew wouldn’t quite get everything they needed. But I was completely bowled over by what they were able to do. Yorkshire just doubled up for other places and they went away loving the place. If they go back to the USA praising Yorkshire, that is the best currency you can get.” Urban locations in Hull have also stood in for East London and Amsterdam in ID2 – the sequel to the cult 1990s football hooligan drama, ID and Sally Wainwright’s gritty crime
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series, Happy Valley, starring Catherine Cawood is filmed in the Calder Valley which was also supported by Creative England. Compelling gangster drama Peaky Blinders starring Cillian Murphy was filmed primarily in Yorkshire featuring Leeds City Varieties, Newby Hall and Gardens, Bolton Abbey, Leeds Town Hall and The Vintage Carriages Trust who provided carriages and a steam locomotive on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway. The National Coal Mining Museum is a great day out with a unique opportunity to travel 140 metres underground down one of Britain’s oldest working mines. It is also one of the many locations in Yorkshire that was used for Red Riding, an ambitious, dark, and thrilling trilogy of interlinking films adapted by Toni Grisoni from local author David Peace’s cult noir novels. Leeds is an increasingly popular destination for screenwriters and it’s not surprising with crew and visitors tempted by the stylish shopping, decadent dining, contemporary arts and a vibrant nightlife on offer. Productions include A Touch of Frost, Tyrannosaur, Black Work and the Great Train Robbery. The future looks bright for thought provoking dramas with Yorkshire taking centre stage in television dramas like ITV’s Dark Angel, starring Downton Abbey star, Joanne Froggatt while West Yorkshire plays a starring role in the horrorthriller, The Limehouse Golem, featuring Olivia Cooke and Douglas Booth. Strip One: Redcar beach. Ryedale Folk Museum. Peeky Blinders. Harewood House. Strip Two: Calderdale. Happy Valley. Keighley & Worth Valley Railway (KWVR). A Touch of Frost. York Minster. National Coal Mining Museum. Strip Three: Bolton Abbey. KWVR. Leeds Town Hall. Newby Hall. Dark Angel.
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Main image: Mia Wasikowska in the 2011 film Jane Eyre. Images top to bottom: Filming Jane Eyre in BrontĂŤ Country. Penistone Hill, Haworth. Top Withens. Mia Wasikowska stars as Jane Eyre. The BrontĂŤ Way. East Riddlesden Hall. Middleham Castle.
Real page turners
Yorkshire is truly an inspiration not just for screen writers but for the many literary greats. The county’s landscapes have captivated and enchanted. The names of the three Brontë sisters and the passionate novels they wrote will be linked forever with Yorkshire. Our landscapes, including the wild beauty of the heather moorlands, are to be found reflected in their writings. Our heritage, the sometimes turbulent times when this land was the cradle of the industrial revolution is recorded in them too. 2016 sees the start of a five year programme celebrating the Brontë siblings and Yorkshire is the only place on earth that brings you this close to the family that changed the literary world forever. Visit Haworth to pay tribute to the memory of Charlotte, Emily and Anne in the Brontë Parsonage Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of artefacts associated with the Brontë family and their work. Philipa Gregory’s Cousins War series focuses on the Wars of the Roses between the royal houses of York and Lancaster and is the focus of the BBC drama the White Queen. Discover the favourite homes of Richard III - the last English king to die in battle at Richmond and Middleham Castles.
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Images clockwise from top right: Charlotte Brontë. Whitcy Abbey. The Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate.
From history to fantasy comes George R.R Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire of which draws inspiration from the Wars of Roses in the battles of the five kings. It is from another Yorkshire inhabitant whose fantastical world paved the way for Martin to create Westeros and that was J.R.R Tolkien. Tolkein spent five years at the University of Leeds while living in Headingly with his family. He wrote poetry for the Leeds student magazine The Gryphon, with elves and kings among his subjects, and did some writing for his first big work The Silmarillion. Bram Stoker also found inspiration for Dracula after staying in Whitby in 1890 for his spine tingling novel Dracula. The seaside town is a great place to explore with its cobbled streets and picturesque houses set alongside a vibrant and bustling harbour. Enjoy a visit to Harrogate and stay in The Old Swan Hotel where the mistress of crime-writing, Agatha Christie famously disappeared to in 1926. It was this hotel which featured in the 1978 film, starring Dustin Hoffman and Vanessa Redgrave who shared a dance in the hotel ballroom.
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Top to bottom: Yorkshire Vet “stars” Peter Wright and Julian Norton enjoying theThirsk countryside. Sutton Bank near Thirsk. The Market Square in Thirsk.
Welcome to Yorkshire Vet Country James Herriot put the market town of Thirsk on the map with his books, films and the brilliant 70’s classic TV series All Creatures Great and Small. Herriot was the pen name of real life vet Alf Wight and as the town prepares to celebrate the centenary of his birth, the TV cameras are back with a bang for a new hit TV series – The Yorkshire Vet on Channel 5.
The series launched in the autumn of 2015 with another ten episodes this spring as millions of viewers tuned in to see Peter and Julian and their team looking after everything from hamsters to horses. Thirsk and the surrounding countryside features heavily in the series and is no doubt one of the reasons for its success. That and a regular supply of Yorkshire pet owners and farmers all keen to meet the vets who are there to care for All Creatures Great and Small. There’s a brand new series scheduled for broadcast from October on Channel 5. Check local listings for details or log on to www.my5.tv The Yorkshire Vet is a co-production between Daisybeck Studios and GroupM Entertainment for Channel 5.
Alf founded Skeldale Veterinary Centre which still thrives today on the edge of the town. Peter Wright is the senior partner at the practice. Born and bred in North Yorkshire, Peter did his work experience with Alf and later became his apprentice. Nowadays he’s the senior vet and runs the practice with junior partner Julian Norton, who grew up in Castleford wanting to be a vet having been influenced by the TV drama. Little did he know that one day he’d be following in Herriot’s footsteps – literally! Julian is also writing a book based on his experiences at Skeldale. He was offered the deal after Leeds based production company Daisybeck Studios persuaded him and Peter to let the cameras in to capture their daily lives in The Yorkshire Vet.
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Events and Festivals
No Gloss Film Festival Leeds, 22nd – 23rd October
The Leeds based DIY film festival showcases local and international indie film-makers and the unconventional. Hosted by Canal Mills
The Bram Stoker International Film Festival, Whitby 27th - 30th October
One of the most unique genre festivals in the country now in its 6th year. The festival has grown into a celebration of all things dark and macabre.
Leeds International Film Festival 3rd – 17th November
One of the largest film events in the UK, presenting an incredible selection of the
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best new and classic films from around the world. 2016 will mark the festival’s 30th anniversary, which promises some spectacular surprises.
Aesthetica Film Festival York, 3 - 6 November
The BAFTA Qualifying Aesthetica Short Film Festival is a celebration of independent film from across the world, and an outlet for supporting and championing short filmmaking.
Ilkley Film Festival February 2017
Enjoy the diverse range of events on offer where eclectic and interesting films inspire a whole new generation. The festival prides its self on education while providing opportunities for audiences to enhance their love of cinema.
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Yorkshire’s film festivals are exciting, unique, innovative and spectacular. Here’s just a taster of what you can expect. For a full listing go to yorkshire.com
Leeds Young Film Festival
Holmfirth Film Festival
A group of young film lovers from Leeds are taking over the city’s cinemas and giving you the opportunity to experience the true magic of seeing films you might have missed on the big screen. 2017 marks the 18th annual Leeds Young Film Festival, full of inspiring film events for all the family.
The 8th annual film festival will feature an exciting programme of popular films, hidden gems, great classics, the best documentaries, children’s favourites and new releases from around the world.
Sheffield Adventure Film Festival 17th - 19th March 2017
Bringing the international documentary family together to celebrate the art and business of documentary making for five intense days in June around the city.
More than 100 of the best adventure, travel and extreme sports films handpicked for you from around the world on the big screen at the heart of the UKs outdoor capital city.
Left to right: Holmfirth. Sheffield Doc/Fest. Leeds Town Hall. Ilkley Cinema. No Gloss Film Festival. Sheffield Adventure Film Festival. Whitby Abbey. Aesthetica Film Festival. Goths in Whitby for the film festival.
March 2017
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May 2017
Sheffield Doc/Fest 9th - 14th June 2017
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REDCAR
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RICHMOND REETH SEDBERGH DENT
HAWES
STAITHES
GUISBOROUGH
YARM
A66
BOWES
YORKSHIRE DALES
SALTBURN
MIDDLESBROUGH
BARNARD CASTLE
A1
WHITBY
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DANBY
A172
NORTH YORK MOORS
LEYBURN
A684
A170
PICKERING
HELMSLEY
THIRSK
KIRKBY LONSDALE
A169 SCARBOROUGH
SUTTON BANK MASHAM
SEAMER
FILEY
HORTON-IN-RIBBLESDALE INGLETON SETTLE
RIPON
GRASSINGTON MALHAM
A59
SKIPTON
A64
A65
DRIFFIELD
YORK
WETHERBY
A658
SALTAIRE
A64
LEEDS
BRADFORD
A614 HORNSEA
BEVERLEY
A19 SELBY
A164
A63
HEBDEN BRIDGE
A63
HULL
HUMBER BRIDGE
HALIFAX TODMORDEN
PONTEFRACT
MIRFIELD HUDDERSFIELD HOLMFIRTH
Welcome to Yorkshire Dry Sand Foundry, Foundry Square, Holbeck, Leeds LS11 5DL 0113 322 3500 info@yorkshire.com www.yorkshire.com
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WAKEFIELD
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A1
BARNSLEY
FLAMBOROUGH HEAD
BRIDLINGTON
A166
A1079
OTLEY
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MALTON
KNARESBOROUGH
HARROGATE
ILKLEY
A629
A165
A19
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OSMOTHERLEY
NORTHALLERTON
DONCASTER
WITHERNSEA
A180 GRIMSBY CLEETHORPES
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PEAK ROTHERHAM DISTRICT A57
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KEY Motorways
Heritage Coasts
A Roads
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Airports
Ferryport
How to get here For more travel information go to www.yorkshire.com/travel YORKSHIRE BY AIR Fly to Doncaster Sheffield Airport with Flybe, Welcome to Yorkshire’s official airport partner and airline, or to Humberside Airport or Durham Tees Valley Airport. Leeds-Bradford International Airport is our busiest air gateway, with flights from Aberdeen, Belfast, Bristol, Exeter, Edinburgh, Glasgow, the Isle of Man, London Gatwick, Newquay, Plymouth and Southampton.
YORKSHIRE BY SEA Ferry services to Hull and Newcastle link Yorkshire with Holland, Belgium and Germany. P&O Ferries operate overnight services to Hull from Rotterdam and Zeebrugge.
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YORKSHIRE BY ROAD Britain’s biggest and fastest highways cross Yorkshire from north to south and east to west, making getting here by car or by coach very simple. For details of the quickest (or the most scenic) driving routes see the AA or RAC websites www.theaa.com and www.rac.co.uk Yorkshire By Rail You can get to Yorkshire by train from the North West with First TransPennine Express, who offer direct services into the county from Liverpool and Manchester. Northern Rail also offer direct services to Yorkshire from the North West. Yorkshire’s cities and market towns are also easy to get to from other parts of the country. Travel to Yorkshire with high-speed trains from either London or Edinburgh in less than two hours with Grand Central and Virgin Trains East Coast services.
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