English-Welsh borders film and TV itinerary

A major landmark in Roman Britain, Caerwent still has many nods to its past to discover. Marvel at its fourth-century walls, some of which stand up to 17ft (5.2m) high, and see excavated houses and a temple. Captain America: The First Avenger was filmed at the nearby Caerwent Training Area, a military site, in 2011 – we’re sure they received a (super)hero’s welcome.

Once the mighty Roman fortress of Isca Augusta, modern-day Caerleon is paradise for history lovers. Explore its Roman roots at the fascinating National Roman Legion Museum, full of treasures from this period. Did you know that the town’s Caerleon Campus doubled as Sex Education’s Moordale High from 2019 to 2023? For the real-life birds and bees, head to Caerleon’s Millennium Wildlife Garden on the banks of the River Usk. 

Did you know that Monmouth holds the accolade of being the UK’s first Bee Town? Join the locals to celebrate the stripy critters at Monmouth Bee Festival in June. The fairground scenes in series two of Sex Education (2020) were shot on Vauxhall Fields, the local playing fields, and a high street games shop enjoys a cameo in the same series. The Duke of Beaufort Iron Bridge, which straddles the River Wye, also features in series four. 

Symonds Yat is the star of the show in Sex Education (2019–2023) – especially the gorgeous Scandinavian-inspired chalet that’s home to Jean Milburn (Gillian Anderson) and her son, Otis (Asa Butterfield), in the series. Formerly a guest house, it’s now a private home, but there’s plenty else to enchant in this town of two halves – quite literally, as it’s split in two by the River Wye. For some of the best views of the Wye Valley, head to Symonds Yat Rock, an ancient hill fort where peregrine falcons, buzzards and ospreys soar above. 

Cast your mind back to Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 (2010), and you may recall a scene where Harry, Ron and Hermione camp in a snowy Forest of Dean after escaping a Death Eater. That was filmed here at Coppett Hill, a landmark in the Lower Wye Valley. Sadly, we muggles can’t apparate to the top of the hill, so you’ll need to dig out those hiking boots to explore. The Coppett Hill Walk is a favourite, starting at nearby Goodrich Castle – you'll be rewarded with views over the River Wye, the Forest of Dean and the Black Mountains.  

A favourite destination in the Wye Valley, Tintern has also proved popular with the cast of Sex Education (2019–2023). Characters are often seen cycling along the River Wye here, and you’ll regularly spot Otis and Eric (Ncuti Gatwa) crossing Tintern’s iconic Wireworks Bridge. Although now ruined, the gothic masterpiece of Tintern Abbey is a must-visit, as is the picturesque village itself.

Witness 800 years of history at St Briavels Castle, famous for its enormous Edwardian gatehouse. You can even stay at the property these days courtesy of the YHA. Spot it in series two of Sex Education (2020), where Jackson Marchetti (Kedar Williams-Stirling) has a heart-to-heart with his mum.

As you explore the ancient forest of Puzzlewood, some places might feel eerily familiar. This wild, enchanting woodland has served as a filming location for the likes of 2020's The Secret Garden, 2015's Star Wars: The Force Awakens, 2016's The Huntsman: Winter’s War, and several episodes of the Doctor Who  (1963–) and Merlin (2008–2012) series. Intricate bridges, paths and magical viewpoints in this rare temperate rainforest are a photographer's delight and feast for the imagination. Often described as otherworldly, it's easy to see why it's inspiration for storytellers.

Dubbed ‘The Friendly Forest Line’, the Dean Forest Railway is a fabulous way to experience this woodland that’s steeped in legend. For an unusual day out, join one of their special experiences, from ‘Murder Mystery on a Steam Train’ to ‘Evening Fish & Chip Steam Train’. If the railway looks familiar, it’s because it featured in series two of Sex Education (2020).

A stone’s throw from Speech House, a former royal hunting lodge that’s now a hotel, is this small fishing lake that’s ripe for exploring. The wooded paths that surround it are easily navigable with an off-road mobility scooter, which can be hired (with advance booking) from Speech House Hotel. In fantasy drama Merlin (2008–2012), the lake was transformed into mythical Avalon with the help of some CGI wizardry. 

Head off-road and tackle some challenging terrains behind the wheel of a trusty Land Rover at Eastnor Castle. Even young drivers can get in on the fun, thanks to the Eastnor Young Off-Roader Experience for 11-17-year-olds. You’ll recognise the castle from series one of HBO’s Succession (2018–2023). 

Think of Herefordshire, and we bet that cider is one of the first things that comes to mind. And did you know half of Britain’s cider is produced here? Whether you’re at home on your bike or prefer the comfort of your car, these three Cider Circuits – the North Circuit, West Circuit and South Circuit – will guide you to some of the region’s finest producers and most picturesque villages. Make sure you have plenty of room in your saddlebags or boot for all the goodies en route. 

In a cathedral that’s crammed with historic treasures, where do you start? Perhaps with the Mappa Mundi, which takes pride of place in Hereford Cathedral. It’s the largest medieval map in existence and offers a fascinating insight into the past. Don’t miss the Chained Library, the largest surviving collection of its kind in the world, hailing from a time when books were so coveted that they had to be locked up. And look out for the stained-glass window paying tribute to the Special Air Service (SAS), the secretive army regiment based in Hereford. This magnificent work of art was completed in 2017 to mark the SAS’ 75th anniversary. 

Follow the apple’s journey from pip to pint at the Museum of Cider. Herefordshire is intrinsically linked to the craft of cider-making, so the museum offers an incredible insight into the county’s heritage. The museum was once the Bulmer’s cider factory and now showcases a nationally important cider collection. Choose from more than 150 craft ciders and perries in the shop as souvenirs, as well as other Herefordshire treats.   

Travel back in time in Weobley, with its black-and-white Tudor houses. Don’t miss Weobley Castle, which dates to the end of the 11th century. The Weobley Trail takes in all the key sites, as well as the breathtaking Herefordshire countryside. It features in Hamnet (2025), a fictional retelling of Shakespeare’s family life. 

Experience the Wye Valley from a canoe for a relaxing day out on the water. Various local companies offer canoe hire and tours, including Outdoors@Hay, Inspire2Adventure and Way2Go Adventures. You don’t need any prior experience, just a love for adventure and a bit of teamwork. Once you get the hang of it, why not try stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking too? This is the place to make a splash.

This mighty medieval fortress has been transformed into a thriving arts and cultural hub – hosting festivals, art workshops, theatre performances and more. Maybe you’ll catch traditional folk music, try printmaking with an inspiring artist, or catch a talk by a renowned Welsh author? The Hay Castle Trust has breathed new life into this historic monument, making it a favourite spot among local people and visitors alike.

A treat for your mind! Featuring the world’s greatest authors, journalists and activists, this famous literature and arts festival takes over the pretty town of Hay-on-Wye every spring. With debates, interviews, book signings and workshops, it is a festival of all things cerebral – and past speakers have included Stephen Fry, Monica Ali and Margaret Atwood. The town buzzes with activity and energy, and many events are held outdoors with glorious countryside views. 

Take a hike up Hay Bluff for panoramic views of the Black Mountains. Fans of 1981's An American Werewolf in London will recognise this area from the film’s opening scenes, when it stood in for Yorkshire in the film. For a different kind of thrill, go hiking, climbing or horse riding in the wider Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) National Park – a fantastic destination for outdoors enthusiasts.

Llanthony Priory has been standing proud in the Vale of Ewyas for 900 years – and today it’s yours to discover. It became an Augustinian monastery in the 12th century until the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1539. Admire its red stonework and walk under its pointed archways dating back to medieval times. There’s even a quaint pub on-site, situated in the former cellars of the monastery. Now that’s some heavenly hops.

History lovers – don't miss Shrewsbury, the birthplace of naturalist Charles Darwin, with its mighty museums and red-brick castle. You should know this market town is anything but stuck in the past, though. Hipster coffee shops, bags of independent boutiques, trendy pizza restaurants – they’re all yours to discover. And when the sun goes down, the nightlife here is also well worth experiencing. Spend a sunny afternoon in the town’s lovely park, The Quarry, which sits in a loop of the River Severn, and you’ll feel right at home. Shrewsbury’s period charm means it has starred in the 1984 production of A Christmas Carol, plus the recent BBC Great Expectations adaptation (2023).  

This mansion looks straight out of a period drama – so it’s no surprise that it featured in 2008’s The Duchess, starring Keira Knightley and Ralph Fiennes. Inside, admire its collection of Regency treasures, including the glorious paintings in the Picture Gallery, while outside the grounds are a haven for wildlife. Explore the restored walled garden, whose produce takes pride of places in dishes in the Carriage House Café. 

Ever wondered what it was like in 1900s Shropshire? Blists Hill has the answer. Immerse yourself in this carefully reconstructed Victorian town, with its period shops and costumed townspeople bringing the era to life. Ride the retro fairground rides, see horses and carriages at work and revisit traditional trades in craft demonstrations. Feeling hungry? Tuck into old-style fish and chips cooked in beef dripping, and treat yourself to some Victorian sweets. If you're a fan of old-school Doctor Who (1963–), you may recognise it from a 1980s episode with Colin Baker's Doctor.

Set within the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ironbridge Gorge sits in a scenic valley along the River Severn, and is widely regarded as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Dotted around the village are museums and interactive experiences.