Sites, camera, action! Many of our properties have taken a starring role on the silver screen, providing the locations and backdrops for a number of blockbuster movies, hit television shows and famous music videos. Here are just a few top picks from the collection.
Movies
Aydon Castle: Elizabeth (1998)
This 13 century manor house was used during filming for the 1998 film “Elizabeth” starring Cate Blanchett, Geoffrey Rush and many other big names. During the film about the early years of Elizabeth’s reign, the castle plays home to Geoffrey Rush’s character and can be spotted in the scene where the ‘sinister Catholic priest’, played by Daniel Craig, is tortured.
The film won an Oscar for Best Makeup in 1999 and also won 30 other awards, amassing over 30 nominations also.
Castle Acre Priory: Glorious 39 (2009)
The opening scenes of this mysterious tale, set around a traditional British family on the eve of World War 2, were filmed at Castle Acre Priory in Norfolk. The film stars a host of leading British actors including Christopher Lee, David Tennant and Bill Nighy.
Chiswick House: The Golden Compass (2007)
One of the most beautiful houses in London was used as a location in the 2007 film ‘The Golden Compass’. The film, which stars Daniel Craig and Nicole Kidman, is based on the book ‘Northern Lights’ by Philip Pullman and is the first of a 3 part trilogy ‘His Dark Materials’.
The film also won Oscar for Best Achievement in Special Effects. It also won 3 more awards and received 26 nominations.
Eltham Palace & Gardens: W.E (2012)
This two-tiered romantic drama, written and directed by Madonna, focuses on the affair between King Edward VIII and American divorcée Wallis Simpson which led to him abdicating the throne in 1936. Eltham Palace and Gardens was used as a filming location during the movie.
The film has received mixed reviews from critics but picked up a Golden Globe award for Best Original Song for Madonna in January 2012.
Kenwood House: Notting Hill (1999)
The well-known romantic comedy stars Hugh Grant as a bookshop owner in London who meets and falls in love with Julia Roberts’ character, a world famous film star. Kenwood House was used for the Henry James period movie shoot.
The film remains very popular and won 10 awards altogether, receiving another 8 nominations.
Old Wardour Castle: Robin Hood Prince of Thieves (1991)
Perhaps the best retelling of the Robin Hood story stars Kevin Costner as the leader of the merry men. This time he’s joined by Moorish companion Morgan Freeman. The scenes where Robin’s father was murdered and found by Robin were set at Old Wardour Castle.
The film received an Oscar nomination for Best Song. It won 13 awards and was nominated for 17 others.
TV Programmes
Wroxeter Roman City: Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day (2011)
Six craftsmen from across the country are brought together to experience what it would have been like to build a villa in ancient times – they had 6 months to complete it using traditional tools and materials.
Stonehenge: Doctor Who (2010)
The series 5 finale of Doctor Who entitled ‘The Pandorica Opens’ was filmed at Stonehenge. The story involves a fictional prison for the universe’s most deadliest being, which is said to be located underneath Stonehenge.
Goodrich Castle: Merlin (2009-present)
Another BBC series that has taken the backdrop of an English Heritage property is Merlin. The series follows the adventures of the young sorcerer and is largely filmed at Goodrich Castle as it is one of the best preserved castles in the country. Merlin won a TV Quick award for Best New Drama in 2009.
Audley End House & Gardens: The Great British Bake-Off, Gardener’s World
Annie Gray, a historical food expert and constumed interpreter from Audley End was interviewed for the Great British Bake-Off. The show also featured a historical pie which was baked at Audley End House & Gardens.
The organic kitchen garden at the property was also the focus for an hour long special of Gardener’s World on BBC Two.
Music Videos
Eltham Palace
Parachute – Cheryl Cole
Filmed in the Courtauld House at Eltham Palace
No Other One – Taio Cruz
Filmed at Eltham Palace in October 2008 and featured the grounds, hall and dining room.
Shake it Out – Florence and the Machine
The subject of the video was a pretend house party at the venue.
Wrest Park
The Fear – Lily Allen
Lily frolics around in the house surrounded by giant presents and balloon people.
