Film & TV Locations in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds, with its rolling hills, charming villages, and historic landmarks, is a perfect destination for those interested in exploring film and TV locations. Many visitors enjoy Cotswolds day tours to see where their favourite scenes were filmed. Here are some notable locations and the productions that have featured them.

Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace has been a star in several productions, including the film Napoleon and the Bridgerton spin-off Queen Charlotte. It has also appeared in The BFGTransformers 5SpectreCinderella, and Mission Impossible. The grandeur and historical significance of Blenheim Palace make it a versatile location for various genres, from historical dramas to action-packed blockbusters. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the palace’s history and its role in these productions.

Gloucester Cathedral

Gloucester Cathedral was transformed into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry for the Harry Potter film series. Visitors can spot various iconic locations from the films, such as the entrance to the Gryffindor Common Room. The cathedral’s stunning architecture and atmospheric interiors provided the perfect backdrop for the magical world of Harry Potter. Fans of the series often visit to relive their favourite moments and explore the real-life locations that brought the story to life.

Chavenage House

Chavenage House near Tetbury has featured in numerous productions, including PoldarkLark Rise to Candleford, and the 2020 adaptation of Emma. It continues to be a favourite for filmmakers due to its well-preserved historical features and picturesque surroundings. The house’s rich history and beautiful gardens make it an ideal setting for period dramas. Visitors can tour the house and grounds, learning about its history and its appearances on screen.

Rousham Hall & Gardens

Rousham Hall & Gardens has been used in ITV’s Lewis episode “The Dead of Winter” and BBC’s The Pursuit of Love. It is also a favourite of TV gardener Monty Don. The hall’s elegant architecture and meticulously maintained gardens provide a stunning backdrop for both drama and documentary productions. Visitors can explore the gardens, which are considered some of the finest in England, and see the locations used in these popular shows.

Woodchester Mansion

This unfinished gothic mansion has appeared in Celebrity Haunted Mansion LiveGhost HuntersHis Dark Materials, and the second series of The Crown, where it became Gordonstoun boarding school. The mansion’s eerie, unfinished state adds a unique atmosphere to any production. It is a popular location for ghost hunting shows and historical dramas alike. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the mansion’s history and its appearances on screen.

Stanway House

Stanway House has featured in The LibertineEmmaWolf Hall, and Father Brown. Its historic charm makes it a popular choice for period dramas. The house’s beautiful architecture and well-preserved interiors provide an authentic setting for productions set in various historical periods. Visitors can tour the house and gardens, learning about its history and its role in these films and TV shows.

Cotswold Motor Museum

The Cotswold Motor Museum in Bourton-on-the-Water is home to Brum, the little car from the ’90s children’s show Brum. The museum itself has become a beloved location for fans of the show. The museum’s collection of vintage cars and memorabilia provides a nostalgic trip back in time for visitors. Fans of Brum can see the famous little car and learn about the show’s production.

Berkeley Castle

Berkeley Castle took centre stage in Johnny English Strikes Again and has also featured in PoldarkWolf Hall, and The White Princess. The castle’s rich history and impressive architecture make it a versatile location for various genres. Visitors can explore the castle and its grounds, learning about its history and its appearances in these productions. The castle’s guided tours often include information about its role in film and TV.

Snowshill

Snowshill gained fame as the home of Bridget’s parents in Bridget Jones’s Diary. The village was transformed with fake snow and Christmas lights to create a festive atmosphere for the film. Snowshill’s picturesque charm and quaint cottages make it an ideal setting for romantic comedies and period dramas. Visitors can explore the village and see the locations used in the film, as well as enjoy the beautiful Cotswold countryside.

Blockley

The village of Blockley is the real-life location for the fictional Kembleford in the BBC TV show Father Brown. This cosy whodunnit series is based on the books by G.K. Chesterton. Blockley’s charming streets and historic buildings provide the perfect backdrop for the show’s mysteries. Visitors can explore the village and see the locations used in the series, as well as enjoy the local shops and cafes.

The Cotswolds continues to be a favourite for filmmakers, offering a variety of stunning locations that bring stories to life on screen. Whether you’re a fan of historical dramas, romantic comedies, or magical adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on a Cotswolds day tour. Exploring these film and TV locations provides a unique way to experience the beauty and history of the Cotswolds while reliving your favourite moments from the screen.

Some Useful Guides To The Cotswolds