From sweeping castles and ancient woodlands to historic city streets and hidden countryside gems, the UK has played a starring role in some of the world’s most loved films and TV series. In Lights, Camera, Check-In, we explore iconic filming locations you can visit in real life, pairing each cinematic setting with a nearby hotel that lets you stay close to the action.
Whether you’re a devoted film buff, a TV series superfan, or simply looking for a memorable place to explore, these destinations invite you to step into the scenes you know and love, and then relax in comfort.
Doune Castle
Doune Castle, a striking Romanesque stronghold, has starred in Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Outlander, and Game of Thrones, making it a must-visit for film and television fans alike. The castle also served as the original inspiration and primary filming location for Winterfell in the pilot episode of Game of Thrones, with its Great Hall featured during the Feast of Winterfell.
Four Seasons Hotel
After exploring this infamous site, continue your cinematic escape at the Four Seasons Hotel, which overlooks seven miles of Loch Earn. This award‑winning independent hotel offers breathtaking scenery, warm hospitality and timeless charm. Proudly independent, the Four Seasons blends classic Scottish character with thoughtful modern touches, the perfect place to unwind and take in one of the best views in Scotland.
Durham Cathedral
Durham’s dramatic landscapes and historic architecture have made it a standout filming location across film and television. At the heart of the city, Durham Cathedral has played an unforgettable role on screen, acting
as the corridors and cloisters of Hogwarts in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Chamber of Secrets. More recently, it took on an entirely different identity as the Asgardian Palace in Avengers: Endgame.
Honest Lawyer Hotel
Set within peaceful green surroundings near the River Wear, the Honest Lawyer Hotel is a family-owned escape, not far from the city. With 51 individually styled bedrooms, including charming courtyard rooms and elegant four‑poster suites, guests can expect comfort, character and a warm North East welcome.
Birmingham
With its industrial heritage, bold architecture, and constantly evolving cityscape, Birmingham has become one of the UK’s most versatile filming locations. The city famously doubled as London for several key scenes in the BBC’s long-running hit Hustle. More recently, Birmingham has taken centre stage as itself in Peaky Blinders, with Digbeth’s gritty streets providing the perfect backdrop for the show’s dark, early-20th-century underworld.
Leonardo Royal Hotel Birmingham
For a stylish stay in the heart of the action, Leonardo Royal Hotel Birmingham offers a contemporary base on Broad Street. Following a multi-million-pound refurbishment, the hotel now features refreshed bedrooms, a vibrant lobby and bar, and a large, state-of-the-art gym for guests.
Forest of Dean
Ancient, atmospheric and steeped in legend, the Forest of Dean has long captured the imagination of filmmakers. The forest featured prominently in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, where it became the mystical planet of Takodana. Fans of Doctor Who may also recognise the forest from The Time of Angels and The Time of the Doctor, where its eerie woodland scenery provided the backdrop for crashed spaceships and the chilling presence of the Weeping Angels.
Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall Hotel
Just a short drive from the forest, Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall Hotel offers an elegant countryside retreat after a day of cinematic exploration. Set within a Georgian country house and surrounded by sweeping Cotswolds views, the hotel blends traditional charm with contemporary comfort.
Watford
Perfect for Harry Potter fans, this filming location is truly magical because the action didn’t just happen nearby, it happened right on the hotel grounds. Hunton Park Hotel in Watford is home to the very fountain used in Harry Potter for the scene with the iconic moving photograph of Lily and James Potter dancing on their wedding day. Sticking to the theme of weddings, you may also recognise this hotel as one of the wedding venues featured in the latest series of Channel 4’s Married at First Sight.
Hunton Park
Set within 22 acres of beautiful Hertfordshire parkland, Hunton Park offers 62 beautifully appointed bedrooms across the mansion and adjoining hotel. With air conditioning throughout and family-friendly options available, Hunton Park provides the perfect base for a Harry Potter–themed break, especially with the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London just moments away.
Book your next stay to a UK filming location.
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