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The film “Saltburn” by Emerald Fennell has been described as the most controversial of the year, sparking intense conversations among audience members even before exiting the theater. However, one aspect that everyone can appreciate is the true standout of the film (besides Rosamund Pike): the town of Saltburn.
The Catton family’s residence, although made up, is based on the real-life Drayton House located in Northamptonshire. The estate, which has 127 rooms and is a Grade-I listed building, has been owned by the Stopford Sackville family since the 1770s.
This is one of many grand houses that have recently captured the hearts of film and TV viewers. In order to take advantage of this interest, VisitBritain and the British Film Commission (BFC) have teamed up.
Next year, a new campaign called “Starring Great Britain” will showcase significant filming spots in the country. This includes the Lyme Regis coastline in Dorset, which will be featured in the upcoming movie “Wonka,” and the Birmingham locations used in the TV show “Peaky Blinders.”
Drayton had never been captured on film before, which Fennell emphasized was crucial. “It had to be something that had never been utilized before. Something that hadn’t even been photographed, let alone filmed. We always aimed to convey the authentic feeling of it being a genuine location.”
The discovery was made by Fennell and production designer Suzie Davies, who successfully persuaded the owners to allow filming. They were given complete creative control to rearrange and redecorate the rooms, such as transforming the breakfast room into a TV room by removing the carpet, adding silk panels, and painting it.
Linus Sandgren, the cinematographer, captures the grandeur of the house’s baroque exterior in a stunning manner. The set designer, Charlotte Dirickx, was instrumental in the property’s renovation. The bathtub featured in the scene was specially created for the film.
Unfortunately, Drayton is not accessible to the general public, which may disappoint VisitBritain and fans of its famous actor, Jacob Elordi. However, guided tours and private events can be scheduled by appointment, allowing for an opportunity to reenact Oliver’s birthday celebration.
In this article, we examine 10 prominent figures from stately homes and determine if they would be accepting of your presence.
Hatfield House, featured in the film “The Favourite”
The Favourite (2018), directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, is a dark comedy set in the early 18th century and centers around Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) and her court. Throughout the film, there are many standout moments and scenes, such as duck racing, the presence of 17 pet rabbits, and a scene of sexual activity in the library. However, one of the most notable scenes features the Duchess of Marlborough (Rachel Weisz) and Abigail (Emma Stone) engaging in a shooting activity in the garden. This scene also highlights the beautiful Hatfield House as an important setting in the story.
The first Earl of Salisbury constructed this building in 1611 on the location of a former royal residence where Queen Elizabeth I spent her childhood. The house, which has been designated as a Grade I listed building, is still owned by the Salisbury family. In the movie, the bedroom of Queen Anne is actually the King James drawing room with most of its furniture removed. The dance scene takes place in the Marble Hall, which features a magnificent black-and-white checkered floor and oak paneling.
Hatfield is definitely not afraid of being in front of the camera, as he has appeared in Orlando (1992), Shakespeare in Love (1998), and Paddington (2014).
Can I visit?
Unfortunately, it is currently closed for the season. However, there is a special Christmas feast experience available. Once the house and gardens reopen in the summer, you will have the opportunity to visit.
Ettington Park (The Haunting)
There is a strong rivalry among grand estate destinations due to a 1999 reimagining of the original. The 1963 version, which we consider to be the 13th best horror movie of all time, featured exterior shots of Hill House, located just outside Stratford-on-Avon in Warwickshire. The mansion was renovated in the mid-19th century in a magnificent neo-gothic style by a student of Pugin. However, the central structure of the house is actually centuries older.
By 1999, Catherine Zeta-Jones was experiencing supernatural occurrences at Harlaxton House in Lincolnshire, in addition to filming on studio sets in Los Angeles. It is crucial to mention that the residence, a combination of Jacobethan and Elizabethan styles, was originally constructed for a man named Gregory Gregory in 1830.
Can I visit?
You have the opportunity to not only visit, but also stay at Ettington Park. However, be warned, as the house is said to be haunted. It has been transformed into a four-star hotel that offers a luxurious and welcoming experience. Additionally, appointments can be made for visits. Harlaxton, on the other hand, hosts weddings and corporate events. They also have open days available.
Stokesay Court (Atonement)
Keira Knightley wore a green dress in the library in the film Atonement (2007). The director, Joe Wright, also gave us a memorable five-minute tracking shot on the beach of Dunkirk (specifically, Redcar).
The library in question belongs to Stokesay Court in Shropshire, which Wright first spotted in an issue of Country Life magazine. Built for the Allcroft family in 1889 by the architect Thomas Harris, the house, like many of its kind, hosted convalescing soldiers after the first world war. Stokesay fell into disrepair through much of the latter half of the 20th century thanks to its reclusive and eccentric then-residents, but in 1994 its entire contents were auctioned by Sothebys and it underwent significant repairs.
You’ll no doubt remember Knightley’s Cecilia cooling off in the beautiful lily-adorned lake in the gardens, and then there’s the fountain scene giving La Dolce Vita a run for its money.
Can I visit?
Absolutely! There is a celebration held in the latter part of December, followed by the reopening of the house for guided tours starting in April of the following year. These tours are frequently led by the current owner and showcase items from the movie.
Wrotham Park (Gosford Park)
Can you believe Gosford Park was actually filmed at Wrotham Park? This is where Robert Altman and Julian Fellowes, known for their obsession with country houses, shot their acclaimed black comedy-mystery. The exterior and ground floor scenes were captured at Wrotham, while the upstairs of Syon House was used for scenes such as Ryan Philippe unbuttoning Kristin Scott Thomas’s dress. They also filmed at Hall Barn in Buckinghamshire and Shepperton Studios for additional scenes.
Wrotham (pronounced roo-tem) Park in Hertfordshire is in the neo-Palladian style. Designed in 1754 for the Byng family (who still own it), with its 2,500 acres and 18 bedrooms, it is one of the largest privately owned homes inside the M25 (and is where Ashley Cole and then-wife Cheryl had their marriage blessed).
Admiral John Byng was unable to fully experience his new residence as he was put to death for his perceived mistakes during the Seven Years War. This event was later satirized by Voltaire in his work, Candide. On the other hand, Syon House is a neoclassical mansion designated as a Grade-I listed property and is currently owned by the Duke of Northumberland, currently known as Ralph Percy.
Can I visit?
It is both possible and impossible. Wrotham is not available to the general public, but it is available for booking for weddings, parties, and corporate events – as long as you are not executed beforehand. Syon House will be reopening in March 2024 and can be visited. Local residents receive discounts and children under 16 are admitted for free. Unfortunately, Hall Barn cannot be visited at all.
Kenwood House (Notting Hill)
Let’s talk about the film Notting Hill! While most of the story takes place in Notting Hill, the main character played by Julia Roberts is actually filming her movie in Hampstead Heath. When the other character played by Grant visits her set, he is actually at Kenwood House, which is located within the Heath – one of the biggest green areas in North London.
When you enjoy a pint in the future, please give a toast to Edward Cecil Guinness, a brewery owner who protected Kenwood from being developed in 1925. He also renovated the house to its original splendor and generously donated his impressive art collection, known as the Iveagh bequest, to the home and the country. Guests can view masterpieces by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Turner, Gainsborough, and Vermeer.
In 1764, the Scottish artist Robert Adam created the overall design of the house, incorporating his distinctive neoclassical style. The library, adorned with a stunning pink and blue ceiling adorned with paintings by Antonio Zucchi, is considered one of the most exquisite in the United Kingdom.
Can I visit?
As someone who used to live just a short 10-minute stroll away, I can confidently confirm that it is indeed possible. Kenwood still boasts its impressive collection of artistic masterpieces, and the lovely library was renovated ten years ago. Additionally, there is a charming secondhand bookstore, a café, and numerous fun activities for children. And the best part? It’s all free.
Chatsworth House (Pride and Prejudice)
There is no need to introduce Chatsworth, as this stately home in Derbyshire is well-loved. It has been featured in various works, including the 2005 film Pride and Prejudice and the iconic 1995 television series (although the famous lake scene was filmed at Lyme Park in Cheshire).
Chatsworth House, the residence of the Devonshire family, was built in the late 18th century and took 21 years to complete. It replaced an earlier house built by Bess of Hardwick and William Cavendish. Over the course of a century, additional rooms were added to the house. The interior design features a significant influence from the East, including hand-painted Chinese wallpapers.
The dining room, with its rich red walls, is considered the most remarkable space in Chatsworth, which has been acclaimed as “Britain’s best” country house. Queen Victoria was also a frequent guest and admirer.
Can I visit?
You have the ability to do so. At the very least, you can visit 30 rooms since the house is still occupied by the Devonshire family. However, you are welcome to admire the painted hall and sculpted gallery, or take a stroll through the 105-acre gardens. Tickets can be reserved in advance here.
Melton Constable Hall (The Go-Between)
The Go-Between (1971) is an incredible film, directed by Joseph Losey and based on the novel by LP Hartley. The screenplay, written by Harold Pinter, features Julie Christie and is a precursor to Saltburn. The story follows Colston, a young boy who spends his summer (and coincidentally his birthday) with his affluent schoolmate.
The fictional Brandham estate in the Christopher Wren style was filmed at Melton Constable Hall, a house in Norfolk that was renovated during the mid-18th century. Despite being unoccupied, the production crew had to make it look lived-in by repainting and mowing the lawns.
In 2017, it was purchased for a significantly reduced price of £1.25m due to its deteriorating state by a man named Roger Gawn. He made headlines in the Daily Mail after facing consequences for cutting down trees on the property.
The BBC created a television adaptation of The Go-Between in 2015. The filming location for this version was the Elizabethan Englefield House in Berkshire.
Can I visit?
Unfortunately not, as it is Gawn’s private home. Englefield House is also private, except for big money hires, but its gardens are open to the public every Monday.
Castle Howard (Brideshead Revisited)
I should mention Brideshead Re-revisited, since both the 1981 TV adaptation and the 2008 film version featuring Emma Thompson, Ben Whishaw, and Matthew Goode were filmed at Castle Howard, which was the inspiration for Saltburn.
Castle Howard is a spectacular baroque home which was commissioned by the third Earl of Carlisle. Its most notable elements are its giant symmetrical wings and a crowning central dome. Construction began in 1701 by the earl’s friend and fellow Kit-Kat Club member, John Vanbrugh (who also designed Oxfordshire’s Blenhem Palace). The final addition to the house was the long gallery in 1811, which Chips Channon described as “reminiscent of the Vatican”.
The gardens, along with Sebastian and Charles’s relaxed enjoyment, are renowned. Some have expressed dissatisfaction with using Castle Howard as the substitute for Brideshead, as it was actually based on Madresfield Court in Worcestershire. Christopher Hitchens believed it was excessively grandiose.
Can I visit?
Definitely, starting from 1952, all credit goes to the Howards. However, please remember to bring your debit card as this place operates on a cashless system. Dogs are allowed on the premises, but not inside the house, of course.
Knebworth House (Batman)
If you recognize the name Knebworth, it’s probably because the 250-acre property in Hertfordshire is home to the Knebworth festival. This annual outdoor event has been taking place since 1974 and has showcased performances by legendary acts such as The Rolling Stones, Queen, and Elton John.
The building, used as the exterior of Wayne Manor in Tim Burton’s 1989 film Batman, is a grand example of Tudor gothic architecture, featuring striking turrets, gargoyles, and domes. The interior shots, such as the gaming room and study, were filmed at Hatfield House.
Like many of the grand houses mentioned, Knebworth was originally a different type of dwelling. It was initially a red-brick manor that was purchased by the Lytton family in 1490. The house underwent a significant change in the 1840s when it was redesigned in a gothic revival style.
One of the well-known individuals who owned it was the writer and playwright, Edward Bulwer-Lytton. He is known for penning the famous lines, “it was a dark and stormy night” and “the pen is mightier than the sword”. The current owner, screenwriter Henry Lytton-Cobbold, is also an active blogger and can often be found on X. His memoir, titled Great Great Great, has been described as “probably TMI”. He is open to hosting film and television productions at the location.
Besides Bruce Wayne, he has welcomed the producers of St Trinian’s 2 (2009, which he may now regret, to be fair), Samantha Morton (in Jane Eyre, 1997), and even the girl group Little Mix.
Can I visit?
During the off-season, there will be various Christmas events taking place. Additionally, in March 2024, the house, gardens, and Dinosaur Trail will fully reopen.
Stoke Park (Bridget Jones’s Diary)
The second entry on our list is associated with Hugh Grant – who is often seen as the quintessential British gentleman. Stoke Park is where Bridget and Daniel go for their “full-blown mini-break holiday weekend” (a clear indication of their love, as per Bridget). The lake at Stoke Park is also where the notorious limerick-on-a-rowing-boat scene takes place.
The Domesday Book documents the initial property, but the current grand residence, featuring a distinctive dome, was created by James Wyatt in 1788 for John Penn, a politician and writer. In 1908, it was transformed into one of the earliest country clubs in the country. Nowadays, it functions as a high-end hotel and its 13 tennis courts are home to the prestigious Boodles Tennis Challenge tournament (past players include Novak Djokovic).
In addition to arranging Bridget’s romantic journey, Stoke Park has also been seen in the films Goldfinger (1964) and Layer Cake (2004).
Can I visit?
Want to relive the mini vacation? You can do so at Stoke Park, the same hotel featured in the film. In addition to its tennis courts, it also has a 27-hole golf course for those looking for some physical activity. And for those who prefer to relax, it is home to one of the top spas in the country.
Source: theguardian.com
