Whether your first vision of England was through the grandeur of Downton Abbey, the dramatic landscapes of Outlander, or the atmospheric streets in Sherlock, there’s no doubt about the UK’s central role in beloved shows and films shown to American audiences.
For travellers making the transatlantic journey, it’s now simpler than ever to bring your screen-inspired dreams to life. These filming locations are not just mere sets—they’re real castles, towns, villages, and landscapes you can stroll through, dine in, and fully experience. With Great British Trips, you can step beyond the scenes and into the narrative.
Here’s a glimpse at some of the most iconic British destinations that have charmed American viewers—and how you can include them in your own travel plans.
Highclere Castle, Hampshire
Appeared in: Downton Abbey
No screen location has become as recognisable as Highclere Castle, the majestic setting of Downton Abbey. Situated amidst the rolling countryside of Hampshire, the actual home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon has drawn fans worldwide.
Reasons to visit:
- Roam through the staterooms, library, and grounds made famous as Lord Grantham’s abode.
- Discover Egyptian artefacts downstairs, an intriguing nod to the 5th Earl’s discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb.
- Savour traditional afternoon tea in a marquee on the lawn.
Include it in: A Southern England Discovery Tour or as a day trip from London. You can explore more inspiration for touring southern England with countryside castles, heritage cities and classic English villages.
Castle Howard, Yorkshire
Appeared in: Brideshead Revisited, Bridgerton (Queen Charlotte)
Few country houses can parallel the splendour of Castle Howard. Nestled within an expansive estate just outside York, it has been portrayed as everything from aristocratic residences to fictional palaces. Fans of Brideshead Revisited will recognise it instantly, while Bridgerton viewers may spot its Queen Charlotte-era brilliance.
What to explore:
- Lavish baroque interiors and the iconic dome.
- Serpentine lake, fountains, and temples in the landscaped gardens.
- A gallery of fashion and film history in rotating exhibitions.
Best paired with: Our Yorkshire Grand Tour or Literary & Film Trail of the North.
The Cotswolds, England
Appeared in: Father Brown, The Holiday, Bridget Jones’s Diary
With its honey-coloured cottages, winding lanes, and postcard-perfect villages, the Cotswolds naturally allure directors seeking timeless English charm. You might recognise Blockley as Kembleford in Father Brown or familiar lanes from The Holiday and Stardust.
Top spots to explore:
- Bibury, often referred to as England’s prettiest village.
- Snowshill, used in Bridget Jones’s Diary.
- Quaint pubs, local markets, and endless photo opportunities.
Ideal addition to: A Cotswolds & Oxfordshire escape.
Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scottish Highlands
Appeared in: Harry Potter series
Few train journeys have captured imaginations like the Hogwarts Express crossing Glenfinnan Viaduct. Located on the West Highland Line, this sweeping curve of 21 arches is as breathtaking in reality as it is on screen.
Experience it two ways:
- Board the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig.
- Trek to the Glenfinnan Viewpoint and watch modern trains pass from above.
Add to: Our Highlands Explorer itinerary or a rail-themed Scottish adventure.
Port Isaac, Cornwall
Appeared in: Doc Martin, Fisherman’s Friends
This quaint harbour village on the North Cornish coast stood in for Portwenn in Doc Martin and has since become a cult favourite. With steep lanes, whitewashed cottages, and stunning coastal views, it’s the epitome of a Cornish fishing village.
Highlights include:
- Visiting the Doc Martin surgery building.
- Tasting fresh seafood by the harbour.
- Walking the clifftop South West Coast Path for spectacular sea views.
Best accessed via: Our Cornwall Coast & Country tour.
Oxford, England
Appeared in: Inspector Morse, Harry Potter, The Favourite
Oxford’s dreaming spires and historic colleges have made it a staple for both academic dramas and fantasy blockbusters. From the Bodleian Library to Christ Church College’s cloisters, the city is built for the camera.
Film enthusiasts can enjoy:
- Walking tours tracing Inspector Morse filming spots.
- The staircase and hall seen in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
- Stately architecture featured in The Favourite.
Fits well with: A Literary England route or Southern Highlights itinerary.
Lacock, Wiltshire
Appeared in: Harry Potter, Pride and Prejudice, Downton Abbey
This well-preserved National Trust village has remained largely untouched by modern development, making it a favourite for period dramas. Lacock Abbey served as a filming location for Harry Potter’s classrooms and corridors, while the village was transformed for Pride and Prejudice and even Downton Abbey flashbacks.
Reasons to visit:
- Stroll through a village frozen in time.
- Explore filming locations inside the Abbey.
- Spot recognisable backdrops with virtually no signage or traffic.
Convenient stop on: A Bath and Wiltshire tour.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Appeared in: Outlander, Avengers: Infinity War, The Crown
The Scottish capital’s cobbled streets, volcanic crags, and medieval closes offer a rich setting for both historical and modern productions. Outlander fans will recognise familiar spots across the city, while Marvel fans may notice the Royal Mile and Waverley Station from Avengers.
What to explore:
- Holyrood Palace, the setting for scenes in The Crown.
- Bakehouse Close, used in Outlander.
- Panoramic city views from Calton Hill.
Tie into: Our Edinburgh City & Lothian tour or Scotland in Film Trail.
Durham Cathedral
Appeared in: Harry Potter, Elizabeth, The Last Kingdom
This UNESCO World Heritage Site has endured for nearly 1,000 years—and continues to serve as a backdrop for medieval drama. Its cloisters formed part of Hogwarts’ corridors, while the grand nave appeared in Elizabeth and The Last Kingdom.
What makes it cinematic:
- Majestic Romanesque architecture.
- Hilltop setting above the River Wear.
- Proximity to the charming city of Durham.
Recommended in: Our North East England Heritage tour.
Planning Your Own Screen-Inspired Adventure
Tips for travellers:
- Check filming schedules – some sites may close briefly for new productions.
- Join guided tours – many locations offer special film-themed experiences.
- Book in advance – popular sites like Highclere and the Jacobite Train fill up quickly.
- Pair locations – many are close to one another and can be part of a larger journey.
Step Into the Story with Great British Trips
Film and television offer more than just escapism—they create a window into British locations rich in history, culture, and scenery. When you visit the real places behind your favourite shows, you’re not merely sightseeing—you’re storytelling.
At Great British Trips, we specialise in crafting itineraries that bring the magic of the screen to life. Whether you wish to explore palaces and period towns or wander through castle ruins and cobbled villages, we’ll tailor your journey to your cherished settings.
Inspired by the screen? Let’s make it your scene. Explore our bespoke itineraries or contact us to design a film-themed tour that’s as unforgettable as the stories that inspired it.