Reel Britain: Explore top documentary film locations

After watching the emotional 2015 documentary Amy, you might feel compelled to pay your respects and learn more about the legendary singer. Her beloved Camden Town in North London is a great place to start, and in the Stables Market you’ll find her life-sized statue. With her characteristic mini dress and beehive hairstyle, it’s instantly recognisable to her fans all around the world.  

The London Borough of Camden has a rich musical legacy, from mods to punks through to gothic rock and beyond. This tour covers decades of music history and the Camden locations that played a part, like music venues, pubs and the eclectic Camden Market. Acts including The Clash and Amy Winehouse considered Camden their spiritual home, so come and discover the place that inspired them.  

Explore London’s alternative side, with live music, street food and the eclectic Camden Market. This neighbourhood has had the spirit of punk at its heart since the 1970s, and you’ll still find this rebellious spirit alive in the shops and pubs that line the main road.  

Recreate the Beatles’ famous walk across the zebra crossing, visit the studio shop and sign its graffiti wall. 

London’s legendary 100 Club is famous as the venue of the birth of punk in the 1970s, hosting the likes of the Sex Pistols and The Clash. Now it’s where you’ll find major artists playing secret gigs, at the venue on Oxford St.

This historic garden has a treat for all ages – with a mini railway, countryside museum and wildlife-filled arboretum. The four glasshouses feature plants from all over the world, such as towering palm trees, tropical fruits and Bicton’s very own orchid variety.

Explore the Devon coast a whole new way and take a sea safari, on a boat trip from Teignmouth. Climb aboard a Humber RIB boat and discover a coastline full of history. Take in the spectacular sight of the red sandstone cliffs, caves, quarries and rock formations, as well as marine wildlife such as whales, dolphins, porpoises and seals.

Dive into the UK’s largest aquarium in Plymouth for an underwater exploration like no other. Spy over 4000 sea creatures and take a watery journey through the world’s oceans, from the brisk Atlantic to the colourful Great Barrier Reef. For a full-on immersive experience, pick up a snorkel and head beneath the surface, or dine under the bubbles of the Eddystone and Atlantic Ocean exhibits.

Immerse yourself in Exmoor’s wild landscapes, incredible wildlife and fascinating history on these guided tours, which are hosted by local experts in a rugged Land Rover Defender 110. It really is a safari: you’ll be spotting red deer, Exmoor ponies and rare birds in their natural habitat, with a chance to take breathtaking photos. The experience is suitable for all fitness and mobility levels, and you’ll enjoy a traditional cream tea at lunchtime.

For a dive trip you’ll never forget, try an Easy Divers’ Lundy Island guided seal encounter, departing from Ilfracombe. Suitable for PADI Open Water-qualified divers, this enchanting experience is a wonderful introduction to British diving. It takes place on historic and remote Lundy island, which lies off the coast of North Devon, where the Bristol Channel meets the Atlantic. The area is renowned for its wildlife.

Viewers of the wholesome documentary series Clarkson’s Farm can sample the products of ‘Diddly Squat’ and other local Cotswolds' producers at this adorable shop. After watching former Top Gear host Jeremy struggle to overcome the challenges of a first-time farmer, enjoy the fruits of his labour including his own beer and ‘the best hamburgers in the world’ - a bold claim!  

A Jeremy Clarkson enterprise, The Farmer’s Dog is more than a pub – it’s a whole gastronomic experience! A classic British boozer at heart but with so much more on offer, The Farmer’s Dog is passionate about local produce, from its restaurant to its meat counter and even the beer and wine selection. With a restaurant, outdoor dining tent and delicious farm shop, you’d better come here with an empty stomach!  

Where else do rhinos roam on the lawn of a stately home? The Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens is one of the best family attractions in the Cotswolds. This unusual and great-fun wildlife park is home to everything from giraffes to lions.

Wander through 60 acres of glorious gardens and woodlands, discovering breathtaking viewpoints, wildlife-filled waterways and vibrant blooms. From the daffodils and cherry blossom in spring, to the blazing maples and horse chestnuts in autumn, every season brings a new spectacle – plus themed workshops and events, such as watercolour painting, photography lessons and trails for children. There is also a gift shop and woodturning studio for unique souvenirs. 

Want to get up-close with incredible wildlife? This family-run sanctuary is home to hawks, owls, eagles and more – and offers a range of interactive experiences. You’ll learn how to handle and fly the birds of prey, get amazing camera angles as they perch on your arm, and learn more about the remarkable skills of these talented hunters – and their unique personalities. Each tour is tailor-made, and a private photographer is available too. 

Epic mountain biking, hill hiking, wildlife watching and more: this UNESCO Geopark covers some of the most spectacular terrain in the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) National Park, and is chock-full of adventures. This landscape is a thrill to explore year-round, from springtime’s wildflower meadows to the snow-capped peaks of winter. 

Boating, hiking, cycling and wildlife-spotting: this tranquil waterway has it all. The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal weaves throughout south Wales, connecting towns and villages through glorious countryside. Maybe you’ll hire a narrowboat for a few days, get close to nature on a cycling trip, or feast on the pubs and cafes that line its banks? For a family-friendly day out, visit Brecon Basin, Llangynidr locks and Goytre Wharf.

The National Showcaves Centre for Wales, in the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog), is one of Wales’ top attractions – with three incredible cave systems, a dinosaur exhibit, Shire Horse Centre and much more.

Look to the stars! The conditions for stargazing are so good in Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) National Park, that it was designated the first International Dark Sky Reserve in Wales: on clear nights you can see the Milky Way, meteor showers and major constellations. Astronomy hotspots include Usk Reservoir, Llanthony Priory and Hay Bluff – and don’t miss the Welsh Dark Skies Week in February. For beginners and experienced stargazers alike, a group stargazing session at the Brecon Beacons Observatory is a fantastic introduction to these special skies.

Visit the football ground that’s at the heart of Welcome to Wrexham (2022–), the story of two unlikely Hollywood actors taking over a Welsh football club. Wrexham AFC play their home games here, so check to see if there’s a match on during your visit – you could be cheering from the sidelines alongside Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney!  

The go-to spot for Wrexham fans pre- and post-game, you’ll find The Turf next door to The Racecourse and kitted out with football memorabilia and club history. Naturally it’s featured in Welcome to Wrexham (2022–), where viewers were introduced to charismatic landlord Wayne Jones. Who knows, you might be lucky enough to share a pint with some other famous faces here too!  

This city’s more than just football, you know – it's fast becoming a foodie favourite. From cosy gastropubs to international cuisine, Wrexham is full of great places to eat, and you can explore the top spots on this expertly curated food tour.  

Meet local creatives or learn a new skill at this multi-venue cultural space that brings together art, performance, shopping and food. Workshops cover a diverse range of topics, with anything from rooftop gardening to pottery taking place here, while exhibits have a focus on social and community issues. When your thoughts have been sufficiently provoked, head to the food court to try dishes from local traders.