Durham City & Heritage Filming Locations
Durham’s medieval streets, grand buildings and atmospheric interiors have made it a popular setting for film and television, from the corridors of Hogwarts to much-loved period dramas.
For film fans, Durham offers the chance to see these locations in person and discover the history behind them. Hotel Indigo Durham, in the heart of the city, makes an ideal starting point.
Durham Cathedral
Discover the Real-Life Hogwarts
Durham Cathedral‘s cloisters doubled as Hogwarts in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
Fans may recognise the courtyard from scenes with Harry and Hedwig, and the Chapter House was used as Professor McGonagall’s classroom.
Parts of the cathedral, including the Galilee Chapel, also helped create the Asgardian Palace in Avengers: Endgame. Check the cathedral’s visitor information before your trip, as access to some areas can vary.
Photo courtesy of Visit County Durham
Durham Castle & Ushaw
Historic Screen Settings
Standing above the River Wear, Durham Castle forms part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside the cathedral.
It featured in the BBC’s Inspector George Gently, and the surrounding peninsula is well worth exploring for its riverside views and historic streets.
A short journey from the city, Ushaw also appeared in Inspector George Gently. Its chapels, historic buildings and landscaped grounds make it a rewarding addition to a film-inspired visit. Check opening arrangements before travelling.
Photo courtesy of Visit County Durham
Beamish Museum
Step Into the Past
Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, provided the backdrop for Downton Abbey: The Movie, with museum staff and period vehicles also appearing on screen. It has also featured in Dark Angel and Joe Maddison’s War.
With its recreated streets, historic buildings and period transport, Beamish is an attraction in its own right, so allow plenty of time for a full day out.
