Lacock: A Beautiful Cotswold Village of Jane Austen Filming Locations
Tucked away in the picturesque Wiltshire countryside of England lies the charming village of Lacock, a place where time seems to stand still.
This historic village is not only known for its quaint charm but also as a popular filming location, including for many Harry Potter movies and period dramas like the Pride and Prejudice 1995 filming locations.
With its cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and lush greenery, Lacock village and abbey is a haven for history enthusiasts and a treasure trove for Jane Austen aficionados.
The timber-framed cottages and 13th century abbey transport visitors back to the Georgian era.
Join us on a guided tour of Lacock Wiltshire, where we’ll not only delve into its rich history but also explore its significant role in the world of film and television, particularly in adaptations of Jane Austen’s timeless novels and as Harry Potter filming locations.
Discover the top things to do in Lacock and immerse yourself in its picturesque tranquillity.
Step Back in Time: The Allure of Lacock
Lacock Village exudes an enchanting, old-world charm that transports visitors to a bygone era.
Its well-preserved medieval buildings, many of which are made from the region’s distinctive honey-coloured stone, create a sense of stepping into an Austen novel or even a Harry Potter movie.
The pretty traditional stone cottages combined with the old-fashioned shops give a real sense of being in a different era, making it the perfect backdrop for period dramas and BBC adaptations.
Sometimes, people even leave little bags of herbs outside their Lacock houses with a little honesty box at the side. A real old-time country community feel.
What has been filmed in Lacock?
Over the years, Lacock filming locations have been used for various films and TV shows. Here are just a few of the most famous ones:
- Harry Potter
- Cranford
- Downton Abbey
- The Hollow Crown
- His Dark Materials
- The Other Boleyn Girl
- Galavant
- Dr Thorne
- Wolf Hall
The village has also been featured in Fantastic Beasts, serving as a stand-in for 1920s New York. With its timeless charm, it’s no wonder Lacock is a popular choice for filming locations.
Lacock’s Jane Austen Connections
Lacock Village has been a favoured location for multiple Jane Austen filming locations in adaptations, making it a pilgrimage site for fans of the author’s works. It’s also a great spot for lovers of other period authors like Elizabeth Gaskell.
The quintessential English village serves as an authentic backdrop for Austen’s tales of love, society, and self-discovery. Here are some notable adaptations featuring Lacock:
- “Pride and Prejudice” (1995): The historic street on which you will find a number of old shops played as the high street in Meryton in the Pride and Prejudice 1995 BBC adaptation. You may remember this as the location in which Lizzie and her sisters went to look at the ribbons while the redcoats were in town. Otherwise, you may recognise it from the street scenes outside the ball in which Lizzie first encounters Mr Darcy. Lacock Abbey also stands in for Cambridge University in this adaptation.
- “Emma” (1996): Church Street village of Lacock has also stood in for another of Jane Austen’s towns. In the 1996 adaptation of Emma, this part of the village was used as a stand-in for the village of Highbury. This includes the location of the Bates’ house, however, this appears to have been built for the show and doesn’t stand as a real building in Lacock.
A Tour of Lacock: Must-Visit Spots
- Lacock Abbey: Start your journey at Lacock Abbey, a National Trust property which also serves as the Fox Talbot Museum dedicated to photography pioneer William Henry Fox Talbot. Here, you can explore the beautifully preserved medieval cloisters and gardens, which are a part of Lacock village history, while learning about the history of photography too. Lacock Abbey was also used as a Harry Potter filming location, standing in for Hogwarts in many scenes. Check out the Lacock Harry Potter map to see all the spots featured, like the courtyard and some interior rooms. Make sure to visit the website and check opening times and Lacock Abbey ticket prices before visiting.
- St. Cyriac’s Church: This 13th-century church is a serene spot for reflection and features some remarkable stained glass windows.
- The Red Lion Inn: Stop for a traditional English meal at the Red Lion Lacock, a historic house which dates back to the 18th century, and one of the great pubs in Lacock village. It’s a charming place to savour local cuisine and soak up the village’s ambience. The Red Lion pub has also been featured in Harry Potter as the Burleigh Babberton public house. There are some other Lacock village pubs to enjoy, but the Read Lion is certainly the most iconic.
- Lacock Pottery: Explore the quaint pottery shop and gallery, where you can admire and purchase handcrafted ceramics.
- The Village Streets: Stroll through Lacock’s charming streets, lined with cosy cottages and shops offering a variety of souvenirs. Refer to the Lacock map to navigate your way. You may recognize some streets and buildings from Lacock Harry Potter filming locations, like Harry Potter’s parents’ house. You can also see locations that are unique to Lacock, such as Lacock village hall.
Many of the top Lacock attractions are managed by the National Trust, so consider becoming a member or checking the Lacock National Trust village website for more information on visiting and tours.
Why Visit Lacock?
- Austenian Atmosphere: Lacock’s timeless charm and use in Austen adaptations create an ambience reminiscent of the author’s novels.
- Historical Significance: The village is a living history lesson, allowing visitors to experience life from centuries past.
- Film and Literary Connections: Lacock’s role in film and television, from Jane Austen adaptations to
- Scenic Beauty: The village’s picturesque streets and historic houses make for unforgettable photo opportunities thanks to its picturesque tranquility.
Experience A Morning Walk In Lacock
Experience the beauty of a morning walk in Lacock with this stunning video by everywhere is imagined.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
In conclusion, a visit to Lacock Village is a delightful journey into the past and a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Jane Austen filming locations.
Whether you’re a history buff, a film enthusiast, or simply seeking the quaint beauty of a traditional English village, Lacock offers an unforgettable experience that brings the pages of Austen’s novels to life.
If you want to discover some more Jane Austen filming locations, check out my post on the Top 10 Jane Austen Filming Locations in the UK.
Thank you so much for reading and I hope to see you back here again soon.
Ta-ta for now! x
