Fans of Downton Abbey, Sherlock Holmes, and period pieces such as The Crown will likely love the stately sets and castles, and gothic architecture that’s showcased on screen. The carefully chosen stonework, extravagant rooms, and elegant hallways, embody a sense of timelessness and nostalgia. The below are some of the classic architectural castles you’ve likely seen on film.
Bamburgh Castle
A regular castle featured in film, Bamburgh Castle has appeared in numerous historical documentaries, film and television sets and it’s easy to understand why. Bamburgh Castle is a beauty by any standard and was first built 14 centuries ago. It is home to numerous styles and rooms, from the vaulted gothic beauty in the Normans Keep to the stately Kings Room.
In total it spans nine acres, with gorgeous ocean outlooks that showcase the Farne Islands. A few notable film appearances of the castle include Transformers (2017), Mary Queen of Scots (1971), The Last Kingdom (2018), Robin of Sherwood (1984 – 1986), Ivanhoe (1982) and Elizabeth (1998).
Belvoir Castle
Leicestershire County’s Belvoir Castle is a beloved feature of the landscape and has been around since the 11th century. It is well known for its extensive art collection and is known as the ancestral home of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland. It has had numerous television appearances, including in the series The Crown, during it’s second and third season (appearing as Windsor Castle), and it has also been showcased in The Da Vinci Code (2006), as well as The Young Sherlock Homes (1985).
It was showcased in A Hazard of Hearts (1987) a film about a compulsive gambler who loses his estate and fortune in dice, and tries to win it back by promising his daughters hand in marriage to his opponent. Needless to say, he loses once more, and a very tangled love story emerges for his daughter. Despite its age, it really is a great film to watch. For those after dice games without needing to promise your daughters hand in marriage, NZ online slots is your best bet.
Highclere Castle
A familiar sight to any Downton Abbey fan, Highclere Castle set within Newbury, is where the series featured many moments. There are over 250 rooms held within it, and fans can book to experience the castle in person during one of their general admission days or guided tour days.
From the dining room where the Dowager Countess delivered her witty one-liners, to the staircase where Mary walked to get married, to the gardens and walls that were featured during car trips. This castle is a definite delight to behold. Highclere is also known as the home of the Earl of Carnarvon, and it was the fifth earl who funded Howard Carter to go on a dig in Egypt, where the tomb of pharaoh
Tutankhamun was uncovered in 1922. The on-site Egyptian exhibit at Highclere Castle pays tribute to this. While here, definitely head outdoors as well, since the gardens are fascinating to walk through, especially the Monks’ Garden, Wood of Goodwill and Healing Herb Garden.
Well over 100 years old, these architectural beauties have been immortalized in film.
