Famous TV Shows and Films Set in Dorset
23 / October / 2024
Dorset’s stunning coastlines, historic houses, and idyllic villages have captured the imaginations of filmmakers and TV producers for decades. Whether you’re a movie buff or simply looking to explore famous filming locations during your holiday, Dorset has served as the backdrop to numerous iconic films and TV shows.
Iconic Films Shot in Dorset
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968)
Revisit the magical family classic with the famous flying car as you explore Abbotsbury. The beautiful Fleet Lagoon and Chesil Beach were featured in the film, along with Bishop’s Road, also in Abbotsbury.
Sleuth (1972)
The thrilling mystery featuring Laurence Olivier and Michael Caine was filmed at the magnificent Athelhampton House and Gardens near Puddletown, making it a must-see for fans of classic cinema.
The French Lieutenant’s Woman (1981)
Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Lyme Regis, this romantic drama starring Meryl Streep and Jeremy Irons features the iconic Cobb wall, offering stunning views of the Jurassic Coast.
Emma (1996)
Fans of Jane Austen can explore the charming villages and towns of Evershot, Dorchester, and West Stafford where scenes from Gwenyth Paltrow’s adaptation of Emma were filmed.
Nanny McPhee (2005)
Visit the iconic Durdle Door, featured in this whimsical family film starring Emma Thompson and Colin Firth. The natural archway and beach create a magical setting in this beloved movie.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009)
Potterheads won’t want to miss a visit to Abbotsbury Swannery, where scenes from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince were filmed. The Swannery is a magical spot, perfect for fans of the Wizarding World.
The Boat That Rocked (2009)
Starring Bill Nighy, this film about pirate radio was shot at Portland Harbour. Explore the same waters where this comedic, feel-good movie came to life.
Tamara Drewe (2010)
Featuring locations in Salwayash, Yeovil, Yetminster, Beaminster and Dorchester, this modern British comedy-drama, starring Gemma Arteton, captured the charm of the Dorset countryside.
World War Z (2013)
Visit Lulworth Cove, where Brad Pitt filmed scenes for this apocalyptic zombie thriller. The cove’s dramatic cliffs make it a perfect fit for the film’s intense action scenes.
Far from the Madding Crowd (2015)
Thomas Hardy’s timeless novel comes to life across Dorset’s beautiful landscapes, with filming locations at Sherborne, Maiden Castle, West Bay, Mapperton House, and Forde Abbey. Hardy’s ties to the area make this an especially poignant visit for literature lovers.
Dunkirk (2017)
Christopher Nolan’s critically acclaimed WWII epic features scenes filmed at Weymouth Harbour and Swanage, where Harry Styles, Fionn Whitehead, and Cillian Murphy brought the historical evacuation to life.
On Chesil Beach (2017)
Adapted from Ian McEwan’s novel, this romantic drama was filmed on Chesil Beach, where the film’s pivotal emotional scene takes place. The unique shingle bank creates a haunting and memorable setting.
Ammonite (2020)
Starring Kate Winslet, this moving film about palaeontologist Mary Anning was shot in Lyme Regis, where the real-life story took place. Wander the same beaches that have captivated fossil hunters for centuries.
Wonka (2023)
The latest adaptation of Roald Dahl’s character, starring Timothée Chalamet, Hugh Grant and Rowan Atkinson, with scenes filmed at Lyme Regis. Explore the charming streets where this whimsical prequel came to life.
TV Shows Shot in Dorset
Comrades (1986)
This historical drama, set during the Tolpuddle Martyrs’ movement, filmed across Tyneham, Cerne Abbas, Dorchester and Maiden Castle. It captures the timeless beauty of Dorset’s countryside.
Gulliver’s Travels (1996)
Venture to Bridport, Golden Cap, Lyme Regis, and Shaftesbury, where this fantastical adaptation of Jonathan Swift’s novel, starring Ted Danson, was filmed.
Harbour Lights (1999-2000)
This nostalgic series, starring Nick Berry, captured the stunning coastal scenery of West Bay and Bridport. It’s the perfect destination for a scenic seaside walk.
Broadchurch (2013-2017)
One of the most well-known TV series shot in Dorset, Broadchurch features West Bay, Weymouth and Charmouth as key locations. Starring David Tennant and Olivia Colman, this gripping crime drama highlights the dramatic cliffs and coastline of the Jurassic Coast.
Wolf Hall (2015)
History lovers can explore Sherborne, where this adaptation of Hilary Mantel’s novel was filmed. The series, starring Mark Rylance, Damian Lewis and Tom Holland, is a feast for fans of period dramas.
The Durrells (2016)
While most of this series is set in Corfu, scenes were filmed on Bournemouth Pier and Beach, showing off Dorset’s beautiful coastline.
Howard’s End (2017-2018)
This classic adaptation was filmed partly in Swanage, adding to the coastal charm of this period drama set in early 20th century England.
Whether you’re captivated by the magic of Harry Potter or intrigued by the dramatic mystery of Broadchurch, Dorset offers an extraordinary backdrop for film and TV enthusiasts. Why not make your holiday even more special by visiting some of these iconic filming locations during your stay at a Waterside park? Experience the landscapes that have captured audiences worldwide, and step into scenes from your favourite films and shows. Plan your next getaway at Waterside and explore Dorset’s cinematic treasures.