Yorkshire and the Humber film and TV itinerary

Located in the UNESCO City of Film, tour this Grade I listed building which is camera-ready inside and out. Look out for the Peaky Blinders in the council chambers, which became the House of Commons in the series. Recognise the grand staircase? It also featured as a hotel lobby in the show, as well as doubling as The Old Bailey in the 2019 film Official Secrets, staring Keira Knightley. Other filming accolades include the TV dramas Victoria (2016 – 2019) and 2013's The Great Train Robbery, as well as the 2023 Netflix drama Bank of Dave.

This Bradford neighbourhood is packed with history — its magnificent neoclassical buildings date back to the 1800s. Look out for it in the upcoming Peaky Blinders film, in which you'll be able to spot Tommy Shelby and co. walking its historic streets. It's also featured in  numerous other productions including the TV shows Downton Abbey (2010–2015), All Creatures Great and Small (2020–), Gentleman Jack (2019–2022) and The English Game (2020), plus the films Testament of Youth (2014) and The Six Triple Eight (2024). 

Reopened in January 2025 after a major refurb, expect exciting new exhibitions around light and sound technologies. With a vast collection featuring photography, cinema, video games and TV, it’s a fascinating day out for all. Look out for the Widescreen Weekend in September 2025 celebrating the past, present and future of film. 

This new venue brings together local traders to showcase the best of Bradford’s dining and shopping. Expect plenty of events too, with live music and cultural pop-ups on the schedule.  

What better place to experience live comedy, big acts like Mumford & Sons and Morrissey, as well as one of the UK’s longest-running orchestral seasons than this vintage venue? With shows for all ages, make the most of the acoustics and atmosphere in this grand yet intimate setting. 

Tucked away close to Bradford is the village of Saltaire. Built by Victorian textile baron Sir Titus Salt who constructed homes, hospitals and schools for the betterment of his workers, it's now a World Heritage Site. Saltaire features the handsome Salts Mill which, from its location on the banks of the scenic River Aire, houses the 1853 Gallery that boasts a huge number of David Hockney’s works. So well preserved is this example of 19th-century industrial architecture, it’s no surprise that film crews set up camp. TV shows include The English Game (2020) and Peaky Blinders (2013–2022), plus the 2022 film The Railway Children Return.

It’s full steam ahead, with vintage trains, beer fairs and even a chance to drive a locomotive for yourself on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway. The heritage railway holds over 150 years of history in its tracks and travels through the stunning Brontë country. Board the train for a steam-fuelled ride through Yorkshire’s valleys – you might even end up sitting in the same seat as Tommy Shelby. That’s right, the railway’s vintage aesthetic lent itself to several scenes of the post-war gangster drama, Peaky Blinders (2013–2022). 

A walk through Haworth is a journey into literary history. Home of the Brontë sisters, explore its cobbled streets, stone buildings and the very house where literary greatness came to life at the Brontë Parsonage Museum. The Railway Children (1970) and The Railway Children Return (2022) both filmed scenes in town, as well as the nearby Oakworth railway station.  

The home of literary greats, the Brontës, visit the Georgian house that’s a time capsule of the 1800s. Explore the rooms where Charlotte, Emily and Anne once lived, filled with their clothes and personal trinkets. Both The Railway Children (1970) and The Railway Children Return (2022) films shot scenes at the museum. Look out for rotating exhibitions into the life and legacy of the Brontë sisters.

Whether easy riverside rambles or long-distance hikes through ancient woodlands, the Yorkshire Dales is blessed with countless rewarding walking routes – so which will you try first? Highlights include the glacial gorge of Gordale Scar, the picturesque waters of Janet’s Foss, and the amphitheatre-shaped rocks of Malham Cove. From easy access to all of the above trails and many more, the village of Malham is an ideal base. Recognise the Limestone Pavement at the top of Malham Cove? It featured in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010) when Harry and Hermione camp out searching for Horcruxes.

Forged by nature over hundreds of years, Gordale Scar is a dramatic gorge cutting through limestone cliffs with waterfalls adding to the atmosphere. Lookout for walking trails and accessible routes around the area. So dramatic is the scenery that the TV show The Witcher (2019–) recreated the fantasy world of “the Continent” here, complete with monster chase scenes. 

Picture a magical wood with a waterfall flowing in front of a cave, worthy of being home to the queen of the fairies. Got it? We bet it looks like Janet's Foss in the Yorkshire Dales. Accessible by path, hike to this beauty spot through ancient woodlands and see if local folklore legends are true. Have a paddle in its refreshing waters, like James Herriot in All Creatures Great and Small (2020–) episode two.  

Home to the 12th-century ruins of Bolton Priory, the TV show All Creatures Great and Small (2020–) made Bolton Abbey its home for a chunk of filming. Look out for Barden Bridge, where vet James Herriot encounters a countryside traffic jam. And spot where he visits the cows at Sharp’s Farm. Visit after dark to stargaze during the Yorkshire Dales Dark Sky Fringe Festival, discover the estate by bike, tour the moorland on a safari, or hike the many off-the-beaten-track trails. Young (and old) visitors will love the Welly Walk with obstacles to tackle along the way. 

With its pretty stone cottages, independent shops selling local produce, art galleries, pubs and restaurants, it's easy to escape the hustle and bustle of city life in this tranquil market town. Found in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, hike scenic walks in the surrounding hills, or explore the town’s cobbled square and alleyways. You'll recognise it as a popular filming spot for the TV show All Creatures Great and Small (2020–). 

A real treat, this well-preserved and impressively imposing Cistercian monastery, founded around 1132, became one of the richest of its time. The surrounding Studley Royal Park features a water garden designed in the 18th century and a deer park. Studley Royal’s cricket pitch hosted a summer match in series two of All Creatures Great and Small (2020–) – the wider estate can also be seen in The Witcher (2019–) and both 1993 and 2020's film adaptations ofThe Secret Garden.  

Formed in the last ice age (there's a lot of history here), the gorge is lined with an ancient woodland dating back to the 1600s. Found between the spa towns of Harrogate and Knaresborough, it's home to an abundance of wildlife. Drink it all in as you walk or cycle the many trails. The railway chase scene in Paddington 2 (2017) was filmed on the Nidd Gorge Viaduct, which towers above the River Nidd. 

The power of time versus nature versus human creations unfolds at Plumpton Rocks. This Grade II*-listed, 18th-century landscaped garden comes alive in every season, with woodland trails, towering rock formations and lakeside paths set over 30 acres. The manmade lake sits at the foot of gritstone outcrops, weathered with time and the elements. Look out for the Lion's Den, Lover's Leap and Needle's Eye formations. These dramatic rocks made for excellent monster-catching territory as seen in The Witcher (2019–). 

No matter the season, Harlow Carr is blooming with floral - head to the Sub Tropicana Garden to be led into an exotic paradise filled with bright, bold colours.

Recharge your batteries at Harrogate’s go-to wellness destination for over 125 years. Britain’s best-restored Turkish Baths, with their distinctive Moorish design, are a sanctuary for the senses. Weary travellers will enjoy their range of rejuvenating treatments, while history buffs should check out the weekly guided tours for an immersive look at Harrogate’s spa scene. 

Marvel at one of Britain’s most majestic cathedrals, York Minster, a medieval masterpiece that has been attracting worshippers since the 7th century. Explore intricately crafted stone and striking medieval stained glass, take a tour and climb the 275 steps of its tower or discover the spaces normally hidden from public view. See the Minster step into the limelight in the final season of The Crown (2016–2023), during the wedding scene of King Charles III and Camilla.

Walk around York’s famous Shambles, the medieval shopping street that looks like it’s straight out of a scene in Harry Potter. Enjoy one of Britain’s most historic shopping experiences while exploring its tiny cobbled streets, kept narrow to keep the cuts of meat once served here out of the sun. Today you’ll find cute cafes, boutique and gift shops.

Need to stock up on your wizarding goods? The Shop That Must Not Be named will be right up your alley. Located on The Shambles, thought to have inspired the magical shopping street Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter story, this independent shop sells official Harry Potter merchandise. Looking like it's jumped straight out of the book's pages, purchase Potter goodies including Butterscotch Beer, Every Flavour Beans, Chocolate Frog’s in a box, clothing, collectables, toys and games. 

Kids – and big kids – will love this magical storytelling walk. Discover the enchanting Shambles and look out for the city’s fantastic beasts. 

Connecting York to London, Edinburgh and other major cities in Britain, York Railway Station is worth a visit for the architecture alone. A Victorian design, its large glass and iron curved roof dominates the space while the curved station platform makes for an unusual arrival or departure. Thought the mystical Platform 9 ¾ from Harry Potter was at King’s Cross station in London? Well, you’re right, it is. But the scene in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001) where Hagrid leaves Harry on the bridge while heading to the platform was actually shot here. 

Delve into Britain’s rich railway history at this train-focused museum in York. From heritage steam locomotives, including the world’s fastest steam locomotive Mallard, to the dawn of diesel and electric models, discover how the railways shaped modern Britain and created a world-leading transportation network. Its Flying Scotsman exhibition tells the story of the nation’s most famous steamer, while the Japanese ‘bullet train’ will take you back to the 1970s. For interactive fun for all, head to the Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery. Try out 18 hands-on challenges, including a rocket launcher, human wind tunnel, science experiments and more.

The intricate interiors of this beautiful stately home are equally as impressive as its grand architecture. Its verdant gardens are dramatic in every season – take a stroll around the lake to channel your inner lord or lady. Notice something familiar about Castle Howard? It had a starring role in Bridgerton’s first season (2020), doubling up as Clyvedon Castle.

After a hard day at work as a rural vet, James Herriot (of All Creatures Great and Small fame) would settle down at his typewriter and write about his exploits. Now, you can visit his fully restored 1940s home and surgery at the World of James Herriot – and even see that very typewriter. Head into the basement to discover the World War II bomb shelter and get hands-on with vet life in the interactive gallery. 

Standing tall in a picturesque valley, the ruins of this Cistercian monastery will take your breath away. It was founded in 1132, and elements of its ornate architecture have survived in immaculate detail: a spectacular backdrop for picnics, live music and carol concerts. Rievaulx also transformed into Camelot for the filming of Transformers: The Last Knight (2017).

Harness the health-boosting benefits of outdoor life at this tranquil garden, a sublime setting for walks, picnics and photography. Its glasshouses and borders are bursting with blooms, while the Vine House Café serves lunches, coffees and cakes. Look out for horticulture and craft-themed events too, such as sculpture art trails and herbal remedy workshops. A breath of fresh air, on the fringes of North York Moors National Park. Set over five acres, the gardens were the backdrop to the 2020 remake of The Secret Garden starring Collin Firth and Julie Walters. 

Once a medieval fortress turned Tudor mansion, take an audio tour to learn how Helmsley Castle evolved over the centuries. Get hands-on with history at the mansion house exhibition, and strap on your boots for a scenic walk from the castle to Rievaulx Abbey. 

Travel back in time on this steam-powered train, which runs between Pickering and Whitby. This 23-mile (37km) journey is renowned for its beautiful countryside and lush moorland, while on-board events include photography workshops and gourmet lunches. Recognise it from any Mission: Impossible or Indiana Jones outings? 

The looming ruins of Whitby Abbey inspired Bram Stoker to write his classic novel Dracula – and they’re just as atmospheric today. In Whitby itself, you’ll find seaside fun galore: think long golden sands, rock pooling, arcades, donkey rides and traditional fish and chips.

Let the fun be-gin on a hands-on tour of the Whitby Distillery. Inspired by a trip to Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, the team behind the distillery have been creating spirits to savour since 2017. On the tour you’ll get up-close to the botanicals that go into each bottle, plus enjoy three different tasters. The distillery’s original gin is distilled with gorgeous local flavours like heather and Yorkshire honey, so it makes a great souvenir of your trip. 

Make sure to stop at stunning Robin Hood’s Bay on the North Yorkshire coast and enjoy its beautiful beach and picturesque village. This fishing village in the North York Moors National Park is made up of an upper and lower village down the hillside. Climb to the top for the views and descend into the alleyways by the quay, with their smuggling past.

Revisit Georgian and Edwardian England in Hull’s Old Town, brimming with museums. This district’s old-school charm has made it a favourite of filmmakers – recent productions shot here include Enola Holmes 2 (2022), The Crown (2016–2023), The Personal History of David Copperfield (2019) and Blitz (2024).

A great example of Victorian era rail travel, Hull's Paragon Station is worth a visit. Lookout for the intricate iron work and large railway shed domes. Heavily bombed during the blitz in 1941, the station featured as a backdrop to the movie Blitz (2024).

Looking for a pitstop? Grab a bite, drink and shop beneath the arches of this thriving Victorian arcade, packed with independent stores. Dig around for a vinal record gem, grab a bunch of vibrant flowers from the florist, check out the jewellers, barber, cafes and food sellers. Step through the arches and into the history of this elegant arcade that was originally built in 1891.  

Discover the history of Hull Minster, from its magnificent golden eagle lectern to its stained glass windows, on a guided tour. You’ll hear stories of the city’s industrial and maritime heritage, and the famous figures who’ve passed through the church’s great doors. 

Come face-to-face with seven species of shark and spot the cute Gentoo penguins who call The Deep home. Overlooking the Humber Estuary, this mega aquarium houses 3,500 creatures, including Britain’s only pair of critically endangered green sawfish. A highlight is the Underwater Tunnel, where you can walk directly beneath one of the pools while sharks swim right over your head. For a stay with a difference, did you know you can even bed down alongside the sharks, rays and turtles on a family sleepover? You’ll enjoy a private tour of the aquarium, fun activities and a pizza supper too. 

York's answer to Land's End, this peninsula curves between the Humber Estuary and the North Sea and is home to an abundance of wildlife. Hop on an ex-military 4x4 truck and head on a safari tour of the Spurn National Nature Reserve. You'll also visit the top of the region's tallest lighthouse for coastal views.