Discover Yorkshire through Media

From the cobbled streets of York to the sweeping moors of North Yorkshire, the county of Yorkshire has served as the backdrop for countless films, television shows, and books. With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder that so many famous films were shot in Yorkshire. This guide will take you on a cinematic journey through Yorkshire’s most iconic filming locations, offering travel tips, trivia, and suggestions to make your trip truly unforgettable.

Famous Films Shot in Yorkshire

Yorkshire’s stunning landscapes and historic architecture have made it a popular choice for filmmakers from around the world. Here are just a few of the many famous films shot in Yorkshire:

1. “Brideshead Revisited” (2008)  – This British drama film, directed by Julian Jarrold, was largely filmed at Castle Howard in North Yorkshire. The grand baroque mansion and its beautiful gardens provided the perfect setting for this tale of love and loss in the English upper class.
2. “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” (2001)  – The Goathland Station in North Yorkshire appeared as the magical “Hogsmeade Station” in this beloved fantasy film. The scenic railway line and charming station perfectly captured the enchanting world of Harry Potter.
3. “The Secret Garden” (1993)  – This classic film, based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, was shot at the Fountains Abbey, a historic ruin in North Yorkshire. The abbey and its surrounding gardens served as the mysterious and magical garden in the film.
4. “Billy Liar” (1963)  – This iconic British comedy-drama was filmed in various locations across Yorkshire, including Bradford and Leeds. The gritty urban landscapes of Yorkshire perfectly captured the film’s themes of dreams and disillusionment.
5. “The Railway Children” (1970)  – The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway in West Yorkshire was used extensively in this heartwarming family film. The vintage steam trains and picturesque railway line added a charming nostalgia to the film.

TV Shows Set in Yorkshire

Yorkshire’s distinctive landscapes and characterful towns and villages have also featured prominently in many popular TV series. Here are a few notable examples:

1. “Downton Abbey” (2010-2015)  – This critically-acclaimed TV series was largely filmed at the Harewood House in West Yorkshire. The grand estate served as the fictional “Downton Abbey,” home to the Crawley family.
2. “Last of the Summer Wine” (1973-2010)  – This classic British sitcom was filmed in the quaint town of Holmfirth in West Yorkshire. The charming cobbled streets and rolling hills of Holmfirth became synonymous with the show.
3. “Emmerdale” (1972-present)  – This long-running soap opera is set in the fictional village of Emmerdale, located in the Yorkshire Dales. The show’s outdoor scenes are filmed in the village of Esholt in West Yorkshire, while the indoor scenes are shot in a purpose-built studio in Leeds.
4. “Heartbeat” (1992-2010)  – Set in the 1960s, this popular British drama was filmed in the village of Goathland in North Yorkshire. The picturesque village, with its vintage cars and retro police uniforms, perfectly captured the nostalgic feel of the show.
5. “Happy Valley” (2014-present)  – This gritty crime drama is set and filmed in the Calder Valley in West Yorkshire. The dramatic landscapes and urban areas of West Yorkshire provide a stark backdrop for the show’s intense storyline.

Animated Films Set in Yorkshire

Yorkshire’s unique charm has not only been captured in live-action films and TV shows but also in animated films. Here are a couple of animated films set in Yorkshire:

1. “Chicken Run” (2000)  – This popular stop-motion animated film, created by Aardman Animations, is set in Yorkshire. The story revolves around a group of chickens who plan a daring escape from their farm in Yorkshire.
2. “Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit” (2005)  – Although not explicitly set in Yorkshire, the accents and humor in this stop-motion animated film are distinctly Northern. The creators, Aardman Animations, are known for their love of Northern England, and the film’s setting is widely believed to be based on Yorkshire.

Famous Books Set in Yorkshire

Yorkshire’s rich literary heritage is evident in the number of famous books set in the county. From classic novels to contemporary works, Yorkshire’s diverse landscapes and culture have provided inspiration for many authors. Here are several classic and contemporary books set in Yorkshire:

Classic:

1. “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Brontí«  – This classic novel is set in the remote Yorkshire moors and tells the tragic love story of Heathcliff and Catherine.
2. “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Brontí«  – Another Brontí« classic, “Jane Eyre,” is set in various locations across Yorkshire, including the fictional Thornfield Hall.
3. “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett  – This beloved children’s novel is set in a hidden garden within a large Yorkshire manor.

Contemporary:

1. “A God in Ruins” by Kate Atkinson  – This novel is partly set in Yorkshire and tells the story of a World War II bomber pilot.
2. “The Horseman” by Tim Pears  – This historical novel is set in rural Yorkshire and follows the story of a young horse whisperer.
3. “Behind the Scenes at the Museum” by Kate Atkinson  – This novel is set in York and provides a vivid depiction of life in Yorkshire.

Exploring Yorkshire’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

Yorkshire is brimming with iconic filming locations, from historic houses and castles to stunning landscapes. Here are some must-visit locations:

1. Castle Howard  – Featured in “Brideshead Revisited,” this grand estate is a must-visit. Explore the opulent interiors and beautiful gardens of this 18th-century residence.
2. Goathland Station  – As the “Hogsmeade Station” in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” this charming train station is a must for any Harry Potter fan.
3. Fountains Abbey  – As the setting for “The Secret Garden,” this historic ruin is sure to enchant any visitor.
4. Harewood House  – As the setting for “Downton Abbey,” this grand estate is a must for any fan of the show.
5. Holmfirth  – The setting for “Last of the Summer Wine,” this quaint town is full of charm and character.

Where to Sleep in Yorkshire

Whether you’re seeking luxury accommodation or budget-friendly options, Yorkshire has something to suit every traveler. Here are several options:

Budget:

1. The Fort Boutique Hostel, York  – This stylish hostel offers affordable accommodation in the heart of York.
2. YHA Haworth  – Located near the Brontí« Parsonage Museum, this budget-friendly hostel is perfect for literature lovers.
3. Ibis Sheffield City  – This budget hotel offers comfortable rooms in the heart of Sheffield.

Luxury:

1. The Grand, York  – This luxurious hotel offers opulent rooms and a full-service spa in the heart of York.
2. Swinton Park, Masham  – Set in a castle, this luxury hotel offers beautiful rooms, a spa, and a cooking school.
3. The Black Swan Hotel, Helmsley  – This historic hotel offers luxurious rooms in the charming market town of Helmsley.

Where to Eat in Yorkshire

From traditional pubs to modern bistros, Yorkshire offers a range of dining options to suit every palate and budget. Here are a few suggestions:

Budget:

1. Mannion & Co, York  – This popular café offers a range of sandwiches, salads, and pastries at a reasonable price.
2. Betty’s Tea Rooms, Harrogate  – For a taste of tradition, visit Betty’s for afternoon tea. While not the cheapest option, it’s worth the experience.
3. The Star Inn, Harome  – This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a budget-friendly lunch menu.

Luxury:

1. The Black Swan at Oldstead  – This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a gourmet dining experience with a tasting menu that showcases the best of local produce.
2. The Man Behind The Curtain, Leeds  – This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a unique and artistic dining experience.
3. The Burlington at The Devonshire Arms, Bolton Abbey  – This luxury restaurant offers a fine dining experience in a beautiful setting.

Detailed Itinerary Day by Day

To make the most of your trip to Yorkshire, here is a suggested itinerary that covers some of the county’s most iconic filming locations.

Day 1: York

• Start your day in the historic city of York. Visit the York Minster, walk along the city walls, and explore The Shambles, a street that inspired Diagon Alley in the “Harry Potter” films.
• In the afternoon, visit Castle Howard, the filming location for “Brideshead Revisited.”
• End your day with dinner at one of York’s many excellent restaurants.

Day 2: Moors and Coast

• Spend your day exploring the North Yorkshire Moors and Coast. Visit Goathland, the filming location for “Hogsmeade Station” in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” and the setting for the TV series “Heartbeat.”
• In the afternoon, visit Whitby, a coastal town that inspired Bram Stoker’s “Dracula.”
• End your day with fresh seafood dinner in Whitby.

Day 3: Brontí« Country

• Spend your day exploring Brontí« Country. Visit the Brontí« Parsonage Museum in Haworth, where Emily, Charlotte, and Anne Brontí« lived and wrote their famous novels.
• In the afternoon, take a walk on the wild Yorkshire moors, the setting for “Wuthering Heights” and “Jane Eyre.”
• End your day with dinner in a traditional pub in Haworth.

Local Legends and Curiosities

Yorkshire is a land steeped in history and folklore. From the legendary Robin Hood, said to be born in the village of Loxley in South Yorkshire, to the eerie ghost stories of the historic city of York, there’s no shortage of legends and curiosities.

One of the most famous legends is that of the Barghest, a mythical monstrous black dog with large teeth and claws, said to roam the Yorkshire Moors. Another popular legend is that of Mother Shipton, a witch and prophetess who lived in Knaresborough in the 15th century.

Hidden Gems in Yorkshire

Away from the well-trodden tourist trails, Yorkshire has many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here are a few:

1. Malham Cove  – This impressive limestone formation in the Yorkshire Dales has been featured in films like “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.”
2. Rievaulx Abbey  – These atmospheric ruins in North Yorkshire have been used as a filming location for many period dramas.
3. Saltaire  – This Victorian model village near Bradford is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been featured in several films and TV shows.

What to Pack for a Trip to Yorkshire

When packing for your trip to Yorkshire, it’s important to consider the weather. Yorkshire can experience all four seasons in one day, so packing layers is key. Here are some essentials you should pack:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Waterproof coat
• Warm layers for cooler days
• Sunscreen and a hat for sunny days
• Camera to capture the beautiful landscapes
• Portable charger for your electronic devices
• Travel guide and map of Yorkshire

Transportations Tips

Getting around Yorkshire is easy thanks to its extensive public transport network, which includes buses, trains, and ferries. Hiring a car is also a good option if you plan to visit more remote locations. Here are some tips:

• Consider buying a rail pass if you plan to travel by train frequently.
• Check the bus schedules in advance as services can be limited in rural areas.
• Book your car hire in advance to get the best rates.
• Always carry a map with you as mobile signal can be patchy in remote areas.

With its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and cultural riches, Yorkshire offers a wealth of experiences for film lovers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts alike. From the cobbled streets of York to the windswept moors, Yorkshire’s cinematic landscape awaits.