Discover English countryside: Top Movies, TV Series and Books Set There

The English countryside has been a popular setting for many famous films, TV shows, and books. Its idyllic landscapes, charming villages, and historic landmarks have captivated filmmakers and audiences alike. Whether you’re a movie buff, a literature enthusiast, or simply a traveler seeking unique experiences, exploring the filming locations in the English countryside offers a delightful blend of entertainment, culture, and natural beauty.

Famous Films Shot in the English Countryside

The English countryside has long been a favorite location for filmmakers due to its scenic beauty and diverse landscapes. Here are some of the most famous films shot in the English countryside:

1. Pride and Prejudice (2005): Filmed in various locations across England, this adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel features stunning shots of the English countryside, including the Peak District and the historic Chatsworth House in Derbyshire.
2. Harry Potter series (2001–2011): The Harry Potter films brought many magical scenes to life in the English countryside, with locations including Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, Gloucester Cathedral, and the charming village of Lacock in Wiltshire.
3. The Holiday (2006): This romantic comedy makes great use of the English countryside, with key scenes filmed in Surrey, including the quaint village of Shere.
4. War Horse (2011): Directed by Steven Spielberg, this war drama was filmed in various locations across Devon, providing a picturesque backdrop to the poignant storyline.
5. The Theory of Everything (2014): This biographical drama about physicist Stephen Hawking includes scenes shot at the University of Cambridge and the surrounding Cambridgeshire countryside.
6. The Wind in the Willows (1996): This family film brings to life Kenneth Grahame’s beloved characters in the beautiful landscapes of the English countryside, including Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

TV Shows Set in the English Countryside

The English countryside is not only a popular location for films but also for TV shows. From period dramas to crime series, the rural landscapes of England have served as a backdrop for various genres. Here are some notable TV shows set in the English countryside:

1. Downton Abbey (2010–2015): This hit period drama was primarily filmed at Highclere Castle in Hampshire, with the surrounding countryside also prominently featured.
2. Broadchurch (2013–2017): This British crime drama was filmed in Dorset, with key locations including the Jurassic Coast and the town of Bridport.
3. Doctor Who (2005–present): The long-running sci-fi series has used several locations in the English countryside, including Gloucester Cathedral and the Forest of Dean.
4. Midsomer Murders (1997–present): This popular detective series is filmed in the picturesque villages of Oxfordshire.
5. The Vicar of Dibley (1994–2007): This beloved sitcom was filmed in the charming village of Turville in Buckinghamshire.

Animated Films Set in the English Countryside

The enchanting landscapes of the English countryside have also served as inspiration for animated films. Here are a few examples:

1. Watership Down (1978): This animated adventure film is set in the rural landscapes of Hampshire and depicts the journey of a group of rabbits trying to establish a new home.
2. The Wind in the Willows (1983): This classic animated film, based on Kenneth Grahame’s novel, beautifully portrays the countryside setting with its anthropomorphic animal characters.
3. Peter Rabbit (2018): This animated comedy film, based on Beatrix Potter’s characters, features the beautiful Lake District as the backdrop.

Famous Books Set in the English Countryside

From classic literature to contemporary novels, the English countryside has been a popular setting for many famous books. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in the English countryside:

Classic Books

1. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen: This classic novel is set in rural England and provides a vivid depiction of life in the English countryside in the early 19th century.
2. Far from the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy: Set in the fictional county of Wessex, this novel paints a detailed picture of rural life in the 19th-century English countryside.
3. The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame: This beloved children’s book brings to life the adventures of anthropomorphic animals in the idyllic English countryside.

Contemporary Books

1. The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro: This novel is set in post-World War II England and includes several scenes in the English countryside.
2. The Casual Vacancy by J.K. Rowling: Set in the fictional English village of Pagford, this contemporary novel explores the social dynamics of a small community in the countryside.
3. The Girl at the Lion d’Or by Sebastian Faulks: This novel is set in rural England during the interwar period, with the English countryside serving as a key element in the storyline.

Exploring Filming Locations – Where to Go

If you’re planning a trip to the English countryside, here are some must-visit filming locations:

1. Highclere Castle, Hampshire: Known as the real-life Downton Abbey, this grand estate offers tours of its beautiful interiors and gardens.
2. Alnwick Castle, Northumberland: Featured in the Harry Potter films, this castle offers a fascinating glimpse into England’s past.
3. Chatsworth House, Derbyshire: Used as the location for Mr. Darcy’s Pemberley in Pride and Prejudice, this stately home is a must-visit.
4. Bampton, Oxfordshire: This charming village served as the fictional village of Downton in Downton Abbey.
5. West Bay, Dorset: The dramatic cliffs and beaches of West Bay were the setting for the TV series Broadchurch.
6. Lacock, Wiltshire: This quintessentially English village has been used as a filming location for many films and TV series, including the Harry Potter films and Downton Abbey.

Where to Sleep in the English Countryside

The English countryside offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are three budget-friendly and three luxury options:

Budget

1. YHA Oxford: This hostel offers affordable dormitory-style accommodation in a convenient location.
2. The Red Lion, Oxfordshire: A traditional English inn offering comfortable rooms and a pub serving local cuisine.
3. The Castle Inn, Dorset: This charming inn offers budget-friendly rooms in the beautiful county of Dorset.

Luxury

1. The Manor House Hotel, Wiltshire: This luxury hotel is located in a historic manor house and offers an authentic English countryside experience.
2. Lucknam Park, Bath: This elegant country house hotel offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
3. The Painswick, Gloucestershire: This boutique hotel offers luxurious accommodation and stunning views of the Cotswolds.

Where to Eat in the English Countryside

The English countryside is known for its delicious local cuisine. Here are three budget-friendly and three luxury dining options:

Budget

1. The Fox Inn, Oxfordshire: This traditional English pub offers hearty meals at affordable prices.
2. The Olive Branch, Rutland: This pub offers a selection of delicious dishes made with local produce.
3. The Hive Beach Café, Dorset: This beachfront café offers fresh seafood and stunning sea views.

Luxury

1. The Wild Rabbit, Kingham: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a seasonal menu made with locally sourced ingredients.
2. The Bath Priory, Bath: This luxury restaurant offers a fine dining experience in a beautiful setting.
3. The Samling, Windermere: With a Michelin star and stunning views of Lake Windermere, this restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience.

Detailed Itinerary Day by Day

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a three-day trip exploring the filming locations in the English countryside:

Day 1: Hampshire and Oxfordshire

Begin your journey in Hampshire, where you can visit Highclere Castle, the real-life Downton Abbey. From there, head to Oxfordshire to explore the charming village of Bampton, which served as the fictional village of Downton in the TV series. End your day with a stay at The Red Lion for a taste of traditional English hospitality.

Day 2: Wiltshire and Gloucestershire

Start your day in Wiltshire with a visit to Lacock, a quintessentially English village that has been used as a filming location for many films and TV series. From there, head to Gloucestershire to explore the beautiful Cotswolds, a region featured in numerous films and TV shows. End your day with a stay at The Painswick, a boutique hotel offering stunning views of the Cotswolds.

Day 3: Dorset

Spend your final day in Dorset, where you can explore the dramatic cliffs and beaches of West Bay, the setting for the TV series Broadchurch. End your day with a delicious seafood meal at The Hive Beach Café before heading back home.

Local Legends and Curiosities

The English countryside is steeped in local legends and curiosities. From cryptid legends of mysterious creatures like the Beast of Bodmin Moor to tales of haunted castles and manor houses, there’s a wealth of folklore to explore. You might also hear tales of famous literary figures like Jane Austen and Thomas Hardy, who drew inspiration from the English countryside.

Hidden Gems in the English Countryside

While the popular filming locations often steal the spotlight, there are also many hidden gems in the English countryside waiting to be discovered. Lesser-known but equally beautiful locations include the historic city of York, the stunning landscapes of the Lake District, and the charming villages of Sussex. Whether you’re a fan of films, books, or simply love exploring beautiful locations, these hidden gems offer a unique perspective of the English countryside.

What to Pack for a Trip to the English Countryside

When packing for your trip to the English countryside, consider the weather and the activities you plan to do. If you’re visiting in the summer, pack light clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. For a winter trip, bring warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarf, and gloves. Regardless of the season, comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring filming locations. Don’t forget your camera to capture the beautiful landscapes, and bring a notebook to jot down your experiences.

Transportation Tips

Getting around the English countryside is relatively easy thanks to the country’s extensive public transportation network, which includes trains, buses, and taxis. For convenience, consider renting a car to explore at your own pace. If you’re planning to visit remote filming locations, make sure to check the local bus or train schedules in advance, as services can be less frequent in rural areas.

Conclusion

From the idyllic landscapes of Pride and Prejudice to the magical settings of Harry Potter, the English countryside offers a wealth of cinematic experiences. Whether you’re planning a film-themed vacation or simply seeking a unique travel experience, the English countryside awaits your discovery.