Hertfordshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire film and TV itinerary

Whether it’s the spellbinding Tudor gothic mansion, its palatial gardens or its enormous concerts, Knebworth certainly knows how to put on a show. You’ll spot it in Guy Ritchie’s hit Netflix series The Gentlemen (2019), a gritty gangster flick set against a stately backdrop.  

Immortalised in films such as Batman Begins (2005) and Paddington 2 (2007), Hatfield House is a sparkling example of Jacobean architecture. It’s also a favourite of the Holmes family, it seems: spot it in Enola Holmes (2020), Sherlock Holmes – A Game of Shadows (2011) and its predecessor, 2009’s Sherlock Holmes. The estate hosts a range of events throughout the year, including immersive theatre performances and an autumn music festival. 

St Albans Cathedral is a real record-breaker. It’s the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain, is the shrine to Britain’s first saint and has the longest nave in England. Bonus: there are some amazing medieval wall paintings to admire and outside, acres of parkland await. And that’s not all: the cathedral is a screen star, appearing in series two of The Crown (2016–2023) as the location of Princess Margaret’s wedding. In Johnny English (2003), look out for the cathedral making a cameo in the coronation scene. 

Embark on a nature-infused exploration of 100 acres of parkland at St Albans’ Verulamium Park. The park was transformed into a winter wonderland during Wonka (2023) filming, complete with fake snow. A sanctuary in the cathedral city, it’s a hotbed for wildlife. Keen twitchers can spot birds across the ornamental lake, while walkers can enjoy part of the Ver River Trail. You can spy another Wonka filming location in St Albans at nearby Abbey Mill Lane. 

Filled with props, sets and costumes from the Harry Potter movies, this immersive tour is a must-visit for all fans. It’s set in the very spot where filming took place, and features animatronics, special effects and exclusive interviews with the stars.

Not far from Windsor, the grand stately home of Cliveden operates as both a luxury hotel and a National Trust site. It sits on 376 acres of National Trust grounds and you can tour the formal gardens, walk the fitness trail, ride a vintage flotilla on the Thames, head to the spa, or have afternoon tea at The Great Hall. It’s made plenty of big screen cameos, including in 2009’s Sherlock Holmes, and you can indulge your inner detective to tackle the house’s marvellous maze. 

Hop over the border to Buckinghamshire for a screen sensation. You might recognise this beautiful Tudor house: it has appeared in Bridgerton (2020–), Midsomer Murders (1997–), Bohemian Rhapsody (2018) and many more – thanks to its exquisite architecture and original features. You can step inside on a guided tour, sip damson gin in the Grand Hall on a ‘Connoisseurs’ experience, or enjoy outdoor theatre performances in summer. It is a short drive from Windsor; prior appointment is necessary for visits, apart from in June and certain Bank Holidays when the property opens to the public in the afternoon. 

Take a stroll on the Long Walk, or go deer spotting in the meadows and woodlands, all with great views of Windsor Castle. The British royal family adore their horses, so why not join a riding tour, or explore in a horse-drawn carriage? This peaceful park has starred in everything from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (2010–2011) and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (2022–) to Bridget Jones’s Baby (2016) and Black Mirror (2011–).

Sitting just over the river from Windsor, this charming town is a ten-minute walk from the Castle. The famous Eton College is its centrepiece, providing architectural wow-factor in its grand Gothic chapel, red-brick lodges and dome-topped library – while the high street features a charming medley of antique bookshops, fashion boutiques and gift shops. Follow the public footpaths through the playing fields, and you might see the school’s sports teams in action. The school itself features in sports drama Chariots of Fire (1981). 

Walk through 1,000 years of history at Windsor Castle, exploring its opulent state rooms and superb royal artefacts – such as the lavish gifts received by Queen Elizabeth II throughout her reign.

Your ticket includes St George's Chapel, where several royal couples have married.

From rollercoasters and rides for all ages, to world icons made entirely from LEGO, this action-packed park has it all.

Don’t want to leave? There are two hotels on site, both with fun LEGO-themed rooms. Think treasure hunts, bunk beds and a pirate swimming pool.

Sink a pint of award-winning beer produced in Windsor itself, and explore behind the scenes on an entertaining brewery tour. This award-winning spot has grown from a tiny enterprise to one of Windsor’s best-loved attractions in just a few years, and hosts everything from quiz nights and live music to beer-tasting parties in its taproom. The resident kitchen serves hearty brunch, lunch and dinner options too. 

Soak up the atmosphere as you walk around the Dreaming Spires of the historic University of Oxford, one of the world’s top universities. Meander through its many colleges, the famous Bodleian Library and tour its eclectic Pitt Rivers and Ashmolean museums. You’ll recognise this world-famous institution from Harry Potter (2001–2011), Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (2018), Wonka (2023), James Bond: Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), among many others. 

Britain’s second-largest library isn’t just a treat for book-lovers: its buildings feature breathtaking architecture, over four centuries of history, and have even featured in the Harry Potter movies. Independent public visits aren’t permitted, but you can take a look inside on a guided tour, booked via Oxford University – which includes a fascinating peek at the Divinity School, Old Quadrangle and Duke Humfrey’s Library.

One of Oxford’s standout sights is the Radcliffe Camera and Hertford Bridge – better known as the Bridge of Sighs (hailing from the Venetian bridge of the same name). While only members of Hertford College are able to cross it, you can enjoy the best views of the bridge from New College Lane. Look out for it in Wonka (2023), X Men: First Class (2011), the Inspector Morse TV series (1987–2000) and more.  

Mad for Inspector Morse? Potty about Harry Potter? This Oxford On Screen Walking Tour has your name on it. Over two hours, you’ll discover a city oozing with movie magic. Bring your camera to capture Oxford’s finest filming locations, also seen in Saltburn (2023), His Dark Materials (2019–2022), A Discovery of Witches (2018–2022) and more.  

Dating back to 1683, the Ashmolean is the University of Oxford's museum of art and archaeology – packed to the rafters with art, natural history and photography. Maybe you’ll get up-close with an Ancient Egyptian mummy, join a painting course with a local artist, or discover priceless jewels from all over the world? There are more than 112,500 pieces in the collection, and entry is free – so check what’s on during your visit.

Walk through 1,000 years of history in Oxford Castle and Prison. Climb the Saxon St George’s Tower, one of Oxford’s oldest buildings and enjoy a view of the city’s famous Dreaming Spires. Then descend into the crypt deep below this 11th-century landmark – said to be one of the Oxford’s most haunted locations frequented by several ghostly apparitions. 

One of Britain’s best museums is the quirky Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford, with artefacts from all over the world. From dinosaurs to Georgian shoes, this popular museum is a treasure trove that delights.

Channel your inner Sir David Attenborough at this glorious garden, a treat to explore all year round. Britain’s oldest botanic garden, it began life in 1621 growing plants for medicinal research. Today you’ll find more than 5,000 different plant species, as well as an action-packed calendar of events for all the family. Don’t miss the Harcourt Arboretum, home to some of the world’s rarest trees. Get stuck into the arboretum’s geocache trail, a treasure-hunting treat for children and big kids alike.

Combine movie legends with fascinating history on this Harry Potter-themed walking tour, which visits key Oxford locations used in the Philosopher’s Stone (2001) and Goblet of Fire (2005) films. Every tour is hosted by Oxford University alumni or students, so you’ll also learn all about life in this world-famous academic institution and beautiful city – a treat for both wizards and muggles!

Britain’s greatest palace is in the Cotswolds – the magnificent Blenheim Palace and the birthplace of Winston Churchill. One of the most popular attractions in the region, you can take an upstairs or downstairs tour and wander around its famous maze. Did you know the palace has played a starring role in some of your favourite films and TV shows? You may recognise it from Bridgerton (2020–), Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015), Spectre (2015) and many more productions.

Want designer clothes at a discount? Head to Oxfordshire’s Bicester Village, one of Britain’s favourite shopping destinations for bargains. This pretty outdoor shopping centre is full of discounted fashion and beauty buys, as well as stylish cafes and restaurants.