Top TV & Movie Filming Locations to Visit Across the UK
Attractions | Featured | Outdoor Activities | Pub Accommodation | Staycation | Uk Pubs | Posted 2025.05.27
Britain’s diverse landscapes and historic architecture have long made it a favourite backdrop for filmmakers. From the enchanting highlands of Scotland to the bustling streets of London, the UK offers a plethora of locations that have graced both the big and small screens. Inspired by VisitBritain’s regional itineraries, let’s embark on a cinematic tour of some of the UK’s most iconic filming locations, exploring the shows and movies that brought them to life and the attractions that make them worth visiting.
Scotland: The Majestic Highlands and Historic Edinburgh
Featured Productions: Outlander, Harry Potter, Fast & Furious 9.
Must-Visit Locations
Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Royal Mile, Edinburgh: This historic palace, once home to Mary, Queen of Scots, features in Outlander as the residence of Bonnie Prince Charlie. Walking along the Royal Mile, fans can spot filming locations like Bakehouse Close and Tweeddale Court.
Book a stay nearby at The Inn on the Mile which sits in the heart of the city centre on the historic Royal Mile. They have nine boutique bedrooms to choose from, each comes with a whole host of extras.
Loch Shiel, Scottish Highlands: Recognisable as the Black Lake near Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series, Loch Shiel offers breathtaking views and a chance to relive the magic Triwizard Tournament.
Book a stay at Craigdarroch Hotel which sits majestically on the south side of the Loch Ness. Choose from ten traditional en-suite bedrooms with loch or woodland views.
Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and St. Giles’ Cathedral: Featured in Fast 7 Furious 9, these iconic streets provided the backdrop for high-octane chase scenes.
Activities
Explore Edinburgh’s rich history through guided tours, visit the Glenfinnan Viaduct (another Harry Potter location) and enjoy traditional Scottish cuisine in local pubs.
Northern England: Yorkshire’s Charm and Dramatic Landscapes
Featured Productions: All Creatures Great and Small, Downton Abbey and Bridgerton.
Must-Visit Locations
Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, Bradford: This heritage railway featured in All Creatures Great and Small, offering visitors a nostalgic journey through the Yorkshire countryside.
Book a stay at The Calverley Arms. A beautifully refurbished pub that has 14 comfortable en-suite bedrooms, including good options for families and guests looking to stay with a dog.
Castle Howard, North Yorkshire: This stately home starred as the Duke of Hastings’ residence in Bridgerton and as Brideshead Castle in Brideshead Revisited.
Book a stay at The Talbot, a historic 17th century coaching inn. Choose from 26 beautiful en-suite bedrooms and elegant suites.
Bampton, Oxfordshire: While not in Yorkshire, Bampton served as the village of Downton in Downton Abbey, with its church and library featuring prominently.
Book a stay at The Fleece. This Oxfordshire gastropub has ten comfortable bedrooms and they have been voted of the top twenty pubs in the UK on two occasions.
Activities
Tour historic estates, enjoy afternoon tea in grand settings, and immerse yourself in the English countryside’s tranquillity.
London: The Capital’s Cinematic Streets
Featured Productions: Paddington, Bridget Jones’s Diary, Mission: Impossible – Fallout.
Must Visit Locations
Portobello Road and Notting Hill: Stroll through the vibrant streets feature in Paddington and Notting Hill, exploring antique markets and colourful houses.
Book a stay at The Hayden, a modern city pub full of character and charm. This pub has a popular restaurant and eight spacious bedrooms.
Brompton Cemetery: This historic cemetery appeared in Mission: Impossible – Fallout, adding to a gothic touch to the film’s London scenes.
Book a stay at The Pride of Paddington, a historic and dog-friendly British tavern. Choose from a collection of beautifully refurbished en-suite bedrooms.
Bedale Street, Southwark: Home to Bridget’s flat in Bridget Jones’s Diary, this location is a must-visit for fans of the romantic comedy.
Book a stay at The Counting House, a decadent 19th century pub. The pub has 21 air-conditioned bedrooms.
Activities
Join film location walking tours, visit the British Film Institute, and enjoy panoramic city views from the London Eye.
South West England: Coastal Beauty and Fantasy Realms
Featured Production: Poldark, Game of Thrones, James Bond
Must-Visit Locations
Kynance Cove and St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall: These stunning coastal spots featured in Game of Thrones and Poldark, offering dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters.
Book a stay at The Ship Inn, located in the picture-postcard fishing village of Mousehole. The pub has 11 coastal inspired en-suite bedrooms and is the perfect base to explore the historic harbour and much more.
Eden Project, Cornwall: This unique attraction served as Bond villain’s lair in Die Another Day, blending futuristic architecture with lush gardens.
Activities
Explore coastal trails, visit historic tin mines, and enjoy local seafood delicacies.
Wales: Mythical Landscapes and Epic Tales
Featured Productions: House of the Dragon, Welcome to Wrexham
Must Visit Locations
Anglesey’s Beaches: These serene beaches provided the backdrop for scenes in House of the Dragon, capturing the essence of Westero’s coastal realms.
Book a stay at the Anglesey Arms, a dog-friendly pub. The pub serves comforting pub classics and award-winning ales. Choose from 16 refurbished single, double, twin and family en-suite bedrooms.
Wrexham: Featured in the documentary series Welcome to Wrexham, this town offers insights into Welsh culture and football heritage.
Book a stay at the Wynnstay Arms, only seven miles south of Wrexham. This pub is the perfect place to stay. Choose from 12 comfortable en-suite bedrooms including their grand four poster suites.
Activities
Embark on coastal hikes, explore ancient castles and immerse yourself in local traditions and festivals.
Plan Your Cinematic Adventure
Britain’s rich tapestry of filming locations offers fans a unique opportunity to step into the worlds of their favourite characters. Whether you are retracing the steps of James Bond, exploring the magical realms of Harry Potter, or indulging in the romantic settings of Bridgerton, there’s a piece of cinematic history waiting for you.
For more detailed itineraries and to plan your journey, visit VisitBritain’s regional itineraries.
Written by Lucille Skinner
Social Media Assistant