D

oes that street look familiar? Probably because it is … Filmmaking is big business in England, where there is a wealth of enthusiasm and talent in the arts.

The wizarding world
Etched on the film map recently, platform 9 ¾, courtesy of one rather famous young wizard. The Harry Potter films were shot in many locations around England, including Alnwick Castle and  Oxford University , as well as London King’s Cross.

You’ll be spoilt for choice on a visit to the capital , which has played host to many-a-film-set. A great way to explore is on a film walking tour, for example, a tour on the 1st Sunday of the month, specialises in Hitchcock’s London. While roaming around London check in on locations you’ll recognise from Notting Hill (Portobello Market), The Da Vinci Code (Temple Church, Inner Temple Lane) or Love Actually (Whiteley’s, Bayswater). These are among many  others shot here.

Other spots in England which draw the film crowds include Sycamore Gap on Hadrian’s Wall , where the first scenes of Robin Hood Prince of Thieves were filmed, Sheffield, home to the Full Monty, and Sleddale Hall – ‘Crow Cragg’ from Withnail & I. Visit  Bristol to see where Starter For Ten was filmed, and Easington, in County Durham for a Billy Elliot flashback. Think quintessentially English, think Pride and Prejudice. Fans of the film adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel should visit  www.pandptours.co.uk .