Literature, film and TV
Many of our famous writers have been inspired by the drama of the landscape. Wordsworth loved the light on a Cumbrian lake. The wildness of the Yorkshire Moors compelled Emily Bronte to write Wuthering Heights. The misty marshlands of Kent feature in many of Charles Dickens’ novels, and the rural idylls of Dorset were beloved by Thomas Hardy. But if writing a great English novel is not on your agenda, visit one of the many stately homes which are regularly used for film locations and TV locations. Make your own costume drama at houses like Highclere Castle, the setting of the fictional Downton Abbey.
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June events: Step back in time at Broadstairs Dickens Festival
The usually quiet coastal town Broadstairs comes to life to celebrate the life of Dickens at this week-long, eclectic festival.
Location: Broadstairs, Kent
Experience the locations that have inspired great literature
The constantly changing scenery, dramatic landscapes and distinctive character of Yorkshire’s people have all been sources of literary inspiration.
Location: Scarborough, North Yorkshire
Run wild on Holkham Beach
Miles of white-gold sand with dunes and sandpits along the Norfolk coast.
Location: Holkham, Norfolk
Explore Lyme Regis
Wander round narrow streets and along the South West Coastal Path.
Location: Lyme Regis, Dorset
Majestic views at a Corfe Castle picnic
Enjoy breathtaking views at the majestic ruins of Corfe Castle in the perfect idyllic picnic spot.
Location: Corfe, Dorset
Explore the West Bay coastline as seen on TV’s Broadchurch
Soak up the picture-perfect setting used in the TV series Broadchurch as you explore West Bay on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast.
Location: West Bay, Dorset
July events: Penzance Literary Festival
A literary festival on the Cornish coast with a distinctly local flavour and a relaxed atmosphere that’s ideal for book lovers.
Location: Penzance, Cornwall
September events: Experience Agatha Christie's Riviera in Devon
Discover Agatha Christie's Riviera and follow in her footsteps by attending her namesake festival, and walking the Agatha Christie Mile in the bustling harbour town of Torquay.
Location: Torquay, Devon
Follow in the footsteps of movie makers in Eastbourne
Follow the film location trail from Eastbourne to Beachy Head, featured in cinema classics such as ‘Harry Potter’, ‘Diana’ and ‘Pearl Harbour’.
Location: Eastbourne, East Sussex
Tread in the footsteps of the stars on the Yorkshire Coast
Visit the most popular film locations on the Yorkshire Coast and North York Moors and follow in the footsteps of stars such as Catherine Zeta-Jones, Ewan McGregor, Bill Nighy and Danielle Radcliffe.
Location: Scarborough, North Yorkshire
Discover Cornwall’s rugged landscape on the Poldark Trail
Saddle up for Hallagenna’s horse riding trail across Bodmin Moor, taking in some of the stunning filming locations behind the BBC’s Poldark remake.
Location: Cornwall
Explore the murderous locations behind Agatha Christie's books
Explore the places in the English Riviera and South Devon that inspired Agatha Christie’s well-known books, following the trail to her favourite spots.
Location: Torquay, Devon
Adventure like the Famous Five in Dorset
Visit the Isle of Purbeck on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, which is said to have inspired Enid Blyton's books.
Location: Purbeck, Dorset
Follow in the Footsteps of Michael Morpurgo
Are you a fan of celebrated children's author Michael Morpurgo? Come and see the island that has inspired him so much.
Location: Isles of Scilly
Explore picturesque Clevedon, as seen on TV’s Broadchurch
Take your time exploring the coastal town of Clevedon near Bristol – filming location for the TV series Broadchurch.
Location: Clevedon, Bristol