Clap board roadside Jakob and Ryan photo – Free Man Image on Unsplash
There’s something undeniably exciting about seeing a familiar place on screen. Whether it’s the cobbled streets of a fictional village or the skyline of a gritty crime drama, TV shows have a way of making real locations feel larger than life. But what if you could go beyond the screen and stand exactly where your favourite scenes were filmed?
From period dramas to crime thrillers and sci-fi series, many TV shows are filmed in real-world locations that you can actually visit. These spots have become destinations in their own right, drawing fans from across the globe who want to relive their favourite moments or simply soak in the atmosphere.
Here are some of the most recognisable and accessible TV show filming locations that you can explore in real life.
Highclere Castle – Downton Abbey
Arguably one of the most iconic British TV settings of the past decade, Downton Abbey brought Edwardian England into homes around the world. The grand estate featured throughout the series is in fact Highclere Castle, located in Hampshire.
Still a functioning stately home, Highclere is open to the public for guided tours, exhibitions, and special events. Visitors can walk through the lavish rooms seen on screen, stroll the gardens, and even take afternoon tea, just like the Crawleys might have done. For fans of period drama, it’s a must-visit location that beautifully captures the elegance and drama of the show.
Monte Carlo – Riviera
If you’re drawn to the glamour and intrigue of high-stakes lifestyles, the sleek thriller Riviera delivers plenty of both, set against the opulent backdrop of the French Riviera. The series, which follows an art curator entangled in a web of wealth, deception, and danger, was filmed in some of the most luxurious locations in Europe, including real casinos.
One standout location is the Casino de Monte-Carlo in Monaco, an iconic venue known for its grand Belle Époque architecture and long-standing reputation as a playground for the rich and powerful. Fans of Riviera can visit the casino in real life, take in the lavish surroundings, and even try their luck at the tables, much like the characters in the show.
For those who cannot travel so far, the casino experience is also more accessible than ever from the comfort of home. Both domestic sites in the UK and international online casino platforms now offer immersive experiences that replicate the glamour and excitement of venues like Monte Carlo, allowing players to enjoy live dealer games, slot machines, and high-stakes tables without leaving their living room. In recent years, international sites have gained popularity as they’re often found to offer more flexible wagering options than their domestic counterparts. When playing at the best non GamStop casino in the UK, bettors will typically find easy access to massive game libraries and generous bonus offers. This blend of real-world allure and digital convenience means the thrill of Riviera’s casino scenes can be enjoyed by fans worldwide.
Port Isaac, Cornwall – Doc Martin
The charming Cornish fishing village of Port Isaac has become forever linked with the grumpy-yet-lovable Dr Martin Ellingham from Doc Martin. Known as “Portwenn” in the series, this picturesque seaside spot is more than just a backdrop—it’s practically a character in its own right.
Fans of the show will instantly recognise the narrow streets, the village school, and of course, the cliffside surgery. Port Isaac remains a working fishing village, so visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, scenic walks, and a bit of small-town charm while retracing the steps of their favourite GP.
West Bay, Dorset – Broadchurch
Broadchurch was praised not only for its compelling storytelling and performances but also for its dramatic coastal setting. Much of the show was filmed in and around West Bay in Dorset, with its towering golden cliffs providing an unforgettable backdrop.
Fans can visit the very beach where key scenes were shot, as well as nearby locations like the police station (a former visitor centre) and the harbour. The area has embraced its television fame, offering walking tours and detailed maps for those wanting to explore the hauntingly beautiful landscape featured in the show.
Castle Ward, Northern Ireland – Game of Thrones
Although much of Game of Thrones was filmed on elaborate sets, several key locations were shot in Northern Ireland, making it a prime destination for fans of the fantasy epic.
One of the most iconic sites is Castle Ward, which served as Winterfell, the ancestral home of House Stark. Located in County Down, this historic estate offers immersive experiences such as archery lessons, costume dress-up, and even bicycle tours through the surrounding grounds. It’s a brilliant way to step into Westeros without the need for CGI.
Holmfirth, West Yorkshire – Last of the Summer Wine
For fans of classic British comedy, Holmfirth in West Yorkshire is an essential pilgrimage. This quaint town served as the primary filming location for Last of the Summer Wine, the long-running sitcom about three old men ambling through retirement.
Today, Holmfirth embraces its TV heritage with themed cafés (like Sid’s Café), local walking tours, and even a small exhibition about the show. The peaceful surroundings and rural charm offer a delightful taste of a slower, simpler life, just as the series intended.
Haworth, West Yorkshire – To Walk Invisible
Although a lesser-known title, To Walk Invisible—the BBC drama about the Brontë sisters—was filmed largely in and around Haworth, a village steeped in literary history.
The town is home to the Brontë Parsonage Museum, where the sisters lived and wrote, and the surrounding moorland, which inspired much of their work. Fans of drama and classic literature alike will find this atmospheric location both educational and immersive, with plenty of opportunities to explore the real world that shaped some of English literature’s most iconic works.
Final Thoughts
TV shows often create fictional worlds so rich and detailed that we forget they’re grounded in reality. Visiting these real-life filming locations allows fans to experience a deeper connection with their favourite series, whether it’s through walking the same streets, entering familiar buildings, or simply soaking in the scenery that sets the tone for memorable moments.
From coastal villages and medieval castles to bustling cities and historic estates, the UK offers a wealth of accessible and authentic filming spots. So if you’re looking for your next travel destination, why not let your favourite show guide the way? You might find that stepping into a scene brings a whole new appreciation for the story behind it.