Yesterday, YourHols reported on the new Alan Partridge tour of Norwich but it’s not the only film-related tour in England, says the country’s tourism bods who are looking to highlight set tours across the country.
Research by VisitEngland shows that up to 40 per cent of tourists want to visit locations they’ve seen on the big and small screens, with Chief Executive, James Berresford saying: “We know there is a huge appetite for ‘set-jetting’. Dorset’s Jurassic Coast for example, saw a huge influx of visitors following its starring role as the fictitious Broadchurch, while Highclere Castle’s Downton Abbey tours sell out year after year.
“It’s great to see VisitNorwich preparing for a similar boost in tourists and I have no doubt that Alan Partridge will help drive visitors to the city, becoming to Norwich what Harry Potter is to Alnwick Castle and Lady Mary is to Highclere Castle, albeit in slacks and driving gloves.”
Here are some of the best days out for film buffs across the country.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
You can tour the studio where the Harry Potter films (above) first began. You’ll have the chance to go behind-the-scenes and see detailed sets, stunning costumes, props and animatronics. Tickets from £21.50 for under 15s and £29 per adult. Harry Potter fans can also try broomstick training at Alnwick Castle (AKA Hogwarts), visit platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross station and go on a Muggle Tour of London.
www.wbstudiotour.co.uk www.alnwickcastle.com www.muggletours.co.uk
Star Wars Miniland Experience
New for 2012, Legoland Windsor revealed its brand new Star Wars Miniland Experience, where the Star Wars Universe has been recreated using Lego. Rebel ships, the Forest Moon of Endor and the planet of Tatooine all feature in the exhibit which depicts several famous scenes using 1.5 million Lego bricks. Prices from £45.60 per adult and £39 per child.
50 Years of Bond – Beaulieu
Last year marked 50 years since the first James Bond film hit the screens and as part of the celebrations, the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu curated the biggest collection of Bond vehicles in the world. It has proven so popular that the exhibition, which includes the legendary submarine Lotus from ‘The Spy Who Loved Me’ and three vehicles straight from the set of ‘Skyfall’, has been extended until January 5, 2014. The exhibition is included in the museum’s admission price of £21 per adult.
Downton Abbey tours
Highclere Castle is already sold out for this year’s openings, however Brit Movie Tours offers a country film locations tour if you can’t wait until next year! Although it doesn’t go inside the castle, the tour does take in Downton Village, Downton Place and the home of the Dowager Countess. Selected dates are available in August, September and October and the price is £79 per adult.
Jane Austen Festival
This year is the 200th anniversary of Pride & Prejudice and for fans of the numerous film and TV adaptations (and of course, the book!), the Jane Austen Festival in Bath is a must. Taking place this year from September 13-21, it will launch with a costumed parade through the city centre, while the week-long programme includes talks and productions, readings and tours, and draws Jane Austen fans from around the world. Whilst in Bath, fans can also visit the Jane Austen Museum.
