York is a city rich in history, stunning architecture, and diverse landscapes, making it a prime location for film and television productions. Here are the top 15 productions filmed in and around York, along with their specific filming locations:
1. Bridgerton (2020-present)
- Location: Castle Howard, North Yorkshire
- This grand stately home was used as the backdrop for the Duke of Hastings' residence. Castle Howard’s opulent rooms and gardens add to the show's lavish Regency-era setting.
2. Downton Abbey (2010-2015)
- Location: Goathland Station (as a part of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway)
- The iconic railway station was featured as one of the platforms in Downton Abbey. Its historical authenticity matched perfectly with the period drama's aesthetic.
3. Victoria (2016-2019)
- Location: York Minster
- This historical drama, based on Queen Victoria's reign, used the majestic York Minster to recreate Westminster Abbey for the Queen’s wedding scene.
4. The Secret Garden (2020)
- Location: Helmsley Walled Garden and Duncombe Park
- The adaptation of this beloved children's novel featured the walled gardens and expansive grounds of these North Yorkshire estates to bring the magical garden to life.
5. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001)
- Location: York Station
- The iconic train station in York was used for some of the Hogwarts Express scenes, providing the magical journey to Hogwarts with a touch of real-world history.
6. All Creatures Great and Small (2020-present)
- Location: Grassington and York’s Shambles
- Grassington village and the Shambles, York’s medieval street, serve as perfect settings to depict the quaint countryside and market scenes in this heartwarming veterinary series.
7. Testament of Youth (2014)
- Location: York Minster and Castle Howard
- The drama, based on Vera Brittain’s memoir, used the iconic York Minster for various scenes and Castle Howard for its magnificent settings.
8. Gentleman Jack (2019-present)
- Location: Fairfax House and The Treasurer’s House
- York’s elegant Georgian-era houses provided the perfect locations for this series set in the early 19th century, depicting the life of Anne Lister.
9. The ABC Murders (2018)
- Location: The Grand Hotel & Spa, York
- This Agatha Christie adaptation featured the grand hotel, giving a classic and luxurious backdrop for the mystery.
10. Death Comes to Pemberley (2013)
- Location: Chatsworth House and York Shambles
- This period drama, based on P.D. James’ sequel to "Pride and Prejudice," used York’s historic locations to recreate the elegance of Pemberley.
11. Gunpowder (2017)
- Location: York Minster and Castle Howard
- This historical drama, set around the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, used these grand sites to recreate the atmosphere of 17th-century England.
12. The Witcher (2019-present)
- Location: North York Moors
- The stunning, rugged landscapes of the North York Moors provided the perfect backdrop for various outdoor scenes in this popular fantasy series.
13. The Syndicate (2021)
- Location: York Racecourse
- The series featured York Racecourse to portray scenes of gambling and high-stakes drama, fitting for the storyline's lottery-themed narrative.
14. Dracula (2020)
- Location: Whitby Abbey and St. Mary's Church
- The eerie ruins of Whitby Abbey and St. Mary's Church were used for scenes in the BBC's reimagining of Bram Stoker's classic vampire tale, adding gothic elements to the storyline.
15. National Treasure (2016)
- Location: York Crown Court
- The courtroom drama series made use of York Crown Court's historical interior to depict the trial scenes, lending authenticity to the production.
York continues to be a hub for filming, with its blend of historical sites, scenic countryside, and vibrant urban spaces. From period dramas to modern thrillers, York offers a versatile canvas for filmmakers to bring their stories to life.