British backdrops that were the real show-stealers.
At this year’s glittering film awards, Britain wasn’t just watching from the sidelines—it was centre stage. From the soaring chalk cliffs of East Sussex to Edinburgh’s cobbled charm and Norfolk’s vibrant tulip fields, our nation’s landscapes played a leading role in 2025’s biggest cinematic hits.
Each location offered its own magic, proving it’s not only actors winning big this year—our scenery deserves a standing ovation too.
So, if you’re feeling inspired by the silver screen, here’s your guide to the British backdrops that deserve their time in the spotlight:
East Sussex
Sussex worked its spell on Hollywood this season. Wicked: Part One swept up awards, taking home Best Costume Design and Best Production Design at the Oscars® and BAFTAs, and scoring big at the Golden Globes too.
One of the film’s most breathtaking scenes? Glinda sailing along the Cuckmere River in a pink boat, framed by the dazzling white cliffs of Seven Sisters Country Park. These iconic chalk cliffs on the Sussex Heritage Coast delivered a showstopping moment—and you can walk their cliff-top trails or paddle the river yourself for a screen-worthy adventure.
Beyond the scenery, East Sussex is rich in history and culture, from the medieval charm of Lewes to Brighton’s buzzing arts scene. Once a hidden gem—now a blockbuster in its own right.
Buckinghamshire
Also starring in Wicked, the village of Ivinghoe was transformed into the magical land of Munchkinland. Its winding lanes and quaint cottages set the perfect stage for the Yellow Brick Road.
Walkers can climb Ivinghoe Beacon for panoramic views across the Chiltern Hills or kick off the Ridgeway National Trail. Just nearby, Waddesdon Manor offers a slice of grandeur. This French château-inspired mansion is packed with world-class art (think Gainsborough and Reynolds), lush gardens, and serious screen credentials—it’s appeared in The Crown, Queen Charlotte, and Cinderella (2021).
Norfolk
Norfolk bloomed into the spotlight with its colourful tulip fields, which lit up Munchkinland’s floral scenes in Wicked. Belmont Nurseries grew a staggering nine million tulips just for the film—and you can visit the dazzling fields each spring before harvest begins.
But the storybook settings don’t stop there. Norfolk’s Deep History Coast, golden dunes, and meandering Broads are pure movie magic. Hire a boat and drift through the UK’s largest protected wetland, or wander medieval Norwich. The city mixes ancient charm—like Norwich Castle—with quirky indie shops in the Creative Quarter.
Bristol
Home to Aardman Animations, Bristol stepped back into the spotlight thanks to Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl, winner of two BAFTAs including Best Animated Film.
Celebrate the beloved duo with the Gromit Unleashed 3 Trail this summer—giant Gromit sculptures will pop up city-wide. Or dive into their world with A Grand Way Out, the first-ever Wallace and Gromit escape room. Animation fans can also visit We The Curious, a hands-on science and creativity centre, with exhibits that explore the magic of stop-motion.
Bristol’s wider film and TV credentials shine too, with starring roles in Sherlock, His Dark Materials, and beyond.
Lancashire
Lancashire’s rolling countryside and industrial heritage helped shape Vengeance Most Fowl. Preston—Wallace creator Nick Park’s hometown—gets a subtle tribute in the film’s setting, blending nostalgic architecture with the duo’s usual antics.
But Lancashire isn’t just cinematic—it’s delicious. Given Wallace’s love of cheese, the county’s dairy pedigree is perfectly on-brand. Head to the Ribble Valley for some of the UK’s best cheesemakers, or explore the Lancashire Cheese Trail. For a gourmet twist, book a table at Moor Hall in Aughton—Lancashire’s first-ever Michelin three-star restaurant (plus a Michelin Green Star), showcasing the best of local produce.
London
London takes a darker, edgier turn in Baby Reindeer, the hit drama that won Best Television Limited Series at the Golden Globes. The city’s pubs, canals and clubs form the backdrop to Donny’s unsettling journey.
Stroll through Stoke Newington to spot the Army and Navy pub—used for Donny’s “Edinburgh” gigs—or visit the Comedy Store in Leicester Square, where he takes to the stage in the final episode. One standout moment takes place along Regent’s Canal near Haggerston Park—ideal for a real-life wander followed by a stop at the lively Columbia Road Flower Market.
Edinburgh
The Scottish capital plays a pivotal role in Baby Reindeer, echoing Donny’s emotional highs and lows. The iconic Arthur’s Seat—a dormant volcano—looms over the city, offering panoramic views for those who climb to the summit.
Other key locations include the Royal Mile’s cobbled charm and The Hoppy pub in Meadowbank, which doubles as the venue for Donny’s disastrous Fringe show. Edinburgh’s electric nightlife and comedy clubs—like The Stand—bring the spirit of the Fringe to life all year round.
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Wrexham
Wales gets its own blockbuster moment in Vengeance Most Fowl, with scenes inspired by the majestic Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. This 19th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site soars 38 metres above the River Dee, setting the scene for a thrilling chase.
Visitors can walk or paddle across the aqueduct, enjoying sweeping views of the Dee Valley’s lush landscape. Hop aboard the Llangollen Railway—a heritage steam train—for more storybook countryside.
Wrexham’s fame doesn’t end there. The hit series Welcome to Wrexham has given the city global attention, and with another season on the way, now’s the time to explore this rising star of the screen.
Ready to follow in the footsteps of the stars? Britain’s show-stopping settings are waiting to take you on a movie-worthy adventure of your own.
