The UK’s Best TV & Film Locations That You Can Visit, And They’re All FREE

The UK is home to stunning scenery, iconic landmarks and beautiful beaches, so it’s no surprise to see so many of these feature in blockbuster films and hit TV shows.

And with award season now in full swing, film buffs can now explore a handy new road trip map from GAP insurance provider, ALA Insurance, which showcases the most iconic filming locations that won’t cost you a penny to visit.

The road trip covers the length and breadth of the UK, with legendary movie and much loved TV show locations carefully selected to keep you entertained along the way, and to suit every budget.

So if you’re looking for a weekend adventure, or inspiration for your next staycation, without breaking the bank, these are the 10 top locations to visit for free.

1. Ardross Castle - The Traitors

The Traitors captivated an audience of 6.4 million in just the first episode of season 2 but the backdrop for this gripping game show is none other than Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands.

2. Bourne Wood - War Horse

Filmed across Devon, Wiltshire, Surrey and Hampshire, the tear-jerking War Horse film takes you on an adventure across some of the UK’s most beautiful spots. One in particular that you can visit for free is Bourne Wood in Surrey.

3. Carnforth Station - Brief Encounter

Now named a Heritage Centre, the Carnforth Station famously features in the 1945 film Brief Encounters. If you’re planning to visit this destination, be prepared to be taken back in time, with vintage decor still shown to this day.

4. Glen Coe - James Bond: Skyfall

The 23rd addition to the James Bond series, Skyfall, follows 007 on a new mission that landed him in the rolling hills of Glen Coe, Scotland. This stunning backdrop has put Glen Coe on the map, and is perfect for a sunny day of exploring.

5. Holmfirth - Last of the Summer Wine

Holmfirth is a quaint and beautiful town nestled in West Yorkshire, and is home to the filming locations of the much loved series, Last of the Summer Wine, which was originally broadcasted in 1973. For fan’s of this show, you can visit the iconic filming locations at no extra cost to your day out and explore all that Holmfirth has to offer.

6. King’s Cross Station - Harry Potter

As one of the busiest train stations in the UK, this filming location in King’s Cross can often be overlooked. But if you pay close attention on your next visit, you might just spot the famous Platform 9 ¾ from the Harry Potter series. This unequivocally British filming spot attracts fan’s from all around the world, but is fortunately free to visit.

7. Portobello Road - Notting Hill & Paddington 1 & 2

Home to not just one, but three iconic movies, Portobello Road in the trendy district Notting Hill was used as a backdrop for iconic movies such as Paddington 1 & 2, and Notting Hill itself.

8. Dunraven Bay (Southerdown Beach) - Doctor Who

Otherwise known as Bad Wolf Bay, this shingle sanded beach was used to film the much loved British TV show, Doctor Who. This beach is also famous for its fossil hunting, so Whovians can explore their own creatures on this historical beach.

9. The murals of Derry/Londonderry - Derry Girls

Featuring one of the most adored girl groups, the Derry Girls TV show follows the lives of four very different school girls from Derry, Ireland. So it’s no surprise to see that this series was filmed in none other than Londonderry itself, where you can visit the murals of Derry/Londonderry at your own leisure.

10. West Bay - Broadchurch

Starring fan favourites Olivia Colman and David Tennant, you can now walk along the same sand as the star-studded Broadchurch series and admire the stunning rock formations alongside the world recognised cliffs.

For more information click here