Discover the Most Iconic Filming Locations in Northumberland
Northumberland, with its sweeping landscapes, historic castles, and dramatic coastline, is one of the UK’s most magical filming destinations. From blockbuster movies to award-winning series, this beautiful region in the North East of England has been a favourite for directors and fans alike. Whether you're a film buff, history lover or simply looking for a scenic getaway, Northumberland offers an unforgettable cinematic journey.
Alnwick Castle – Home of Hogwarts and More
Harry Potter Series: Alnwick Castle's Magical Appeal
Alnwick Castle famously became Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the first two Harry Potter films. The Outer Bailey is where Harry first took flying lessons, and the castle’s dramatic walls and courtyards set the tone for magical adventures. Today, fans can join broomstick training sessions and explore the castle just as Harry, Ron and Hermione did.
Downton Abbey: Alnwick Castle's Aristocratic Charms
Alnwick Castle also starred as Brancaster Castle in Downton Abbey’s Christmas specials. Its grand interiors and gardens gave the perfect setting for aristocratic drama and luxury.
Transformers: The Last Knight
This action-packed movie used Alnwick Castle and Bamburgh Beach for key scenes. The film’s high-tech action clashed brilliantly with the castle’s medieval charm, giving a whole new edge to the historic setting.
Hadrian's Wall & Sycamore Gap
Real-Life Inspiration for Fantasy Worlds
Game of Thrones: Hadrian's Wall - The Guardian of the North
While not filmed here, Hadrian’s Wall inspired George R.R. Martin's icy Wall in Game of Thrones. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking hikes and a direct link between history and fantasy.
Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves - The Wilds of Sycamore Gap
Sycamore Gap on Hadrian’s Wall, once home to the most photographed tree in Britain, was a key filming location. Although the famous tree sadly fell in 2023, the landscape remains iconic and steeped in cinematic history.
However, as of 7 October 2023, the Northumberland National Park Authority has reported that the famous tree at Sycamore Gap has sadly fallen overnight.
Despite this, the site remains a symbol of the region's natural and cinematic heritage, attracting visitors keen to capture its enduring beauty and historic significance.
Bamburgh Castle & Coastline – A Royal and Rugged Star
Macbeth: Bamburgh Castle and the Royal Setting
This Shakespearean epic used Bamburgh Castle’s dramatic clifftop setting to great effect, with sweeping shots of the castle against the stormy sea.The castle is open to visitors all year round, with no reservation required. It is a cash-free site.
Frontier
Starring Jason Momoa, this gritty drama was partly filmed in Bamburgh and nearby Belford, showcasing Northumberland’s rugged coastal charm.
Northumberland' Transformers: The Last Knight
The castle's exterior and nearby beaches brought fantasy battles and futuristic storylines to life.
Holy Island of Lindisfarne – A Place of Spirit and Story
The Last Kingdom: The Spiritual Retreat on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne
The Holy Island served as a key location in this historical series, with its monastery and peaceful coastline echoing the show’s themes of faith, conflict and conquest.
Visit this page for important information about crossing Holy Island's causeway.
Vera: Crime Solving in the Heart of Northumberland
This long-running ITV drama starring Brenda Blethyn regularly features locations around Northumberland. Holy Island, Alnmouth, Amble, Blanchland, and the Farne Islands have all made appearances. For fans of the series, visiting these spots feels like stepping into Vera’s world.
Northumberland Villages and Hidden Gems
The Red King – A Crime Drama in Craster
This upcoming crime drama was filmed in the scenic fishing village of Craster. Expect dramatic coastal scenes and eerie atmospheres.
Outlaw King – Berwick’s Transformation into Medieval Times
Berwick was transformed into medieval London and Glasgow for the Netflix film Outlaw King starring Chris Pine. Local extras, historic bridges and cobbled streets helped bring the 13th-century setting to life.
Elizabeth (1998) – Northumberland’s Royal Backdrop
Both castles appeared in the Oscar-winning film Elizabeth. Chillingham provided haunting interiors, while Warkworth doubled as the Tower of London.
Plan Your Movie-Inspired Getaway
From legendary forests to fairytale castles and coastal fortresses, Northumberland is a must-visit destination for film lovers. Walk in the footsteps of Harry Potter, witness the grandeur of Downton Abbey, and explore the wild beauty captured in epic dramas.