The UK is home to many stunning villages, but not every village can say it’s been featured in some of the most famous dramas and films of the past few decades. Tucked away in the countryside, one tiny spot has become one of Britain’s most popular filming locations, and it’s not hard to see why.
With cobbled streets, ancient buildings and barely a modern sign in sight, it often looks like it’s been frozen in time. It’s appeared in some of the most recognisable period dramas and fantasy films ever made, from BBC hits to blockbuster movies. Production crews return again and again because they don’t need to do much to make it look authentic – it already feels like a film set.
Lacock is located in Wiltshire, just south of Chippenham, on the edge of the Cotswolds.
Most of it is owned by the National Trust, which has helped preserve its layout and historic look, including the well-known abbey at its heart.
According to travel experts at Mickledore, who specialise in cultural and walking holidays, the village has been used in at least ten major productions, including Pride and Prejudice (1995), Cranford (2007), Downton Abbey (TV and film), Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, Chamber of Secrets, Half-Blood Prince, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, Wolf Hall, The White Princess, The Other Boleyn Girl, Beauty and the Beast (2017), and Mariah Mundi and the Midas Box.
“Lacock is like a ready-made period set,” a spokesperson said. “There are no modern signs or shopfronts to hide. Its authenticity means crews can focus fully on the story.”
The mix of historic charm and easy access to other famous filming locations nearby like London, Bath, and Bristol means it’s both beautiful and practical for production teams.
But Lacock isn’t just for the cameras, it’s also open to visitors.
Fans can walk the same paths as their favourite characters and spot familiar backdrops around the village square, abbey grounds, and riverside.
Highlights include the 13th-century Lacock Abbey, the Fox Talbot Museum (which tells the story of photography’s early days), as well as cosy tea rooms, pubs, and local craft shops.
For those planning a trip, weekdays and early mornings tend to be quieter, and it’s worth bringing a list of filming locations to spot along the way.
“Whether you come for the film locations, the ancient buildings, or simply the peaceful atmosphere, Lacock leaves a lasting memory,” the experts at Mickledore added.