Unveiling Kent's Silver Screen: A Guide to Movies Filmed in Kent

Hello, movie buffs! Today, we're going on a cinematic journey through the beautiful county of Kent. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and, of course, its appearances on the silver screen, Kent has been a star in many blockbuster movies. So, grab your popcorn and let's dive into the world of movies in Kent! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and movies in kent.

Kent's Starring Roles: Iconic Movies Filmed in Kent

The Hobbit Trilogy (2012-2014)

Kicking off our list is Peter Jackson's epic trilogy, The Hobbit. Kent's picturesque countryside and historic buildings played host to several scenes in this fantasy adventure. The county's rolling hills and ancient forests stood in for the mystical landscapes of Middle-earth.

Matilda's Gang, a film location agency based in Kent, worked closely with the production team to find the perfect locations. From the idyllic village of Lullingstone in the Sevenoaks district to the stunning Leeds Castle, Kent's diverse landscapes helped bring J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpiece to life.

The Da Vinci Code (2006)

Dan Brown's best-selling novel hit the big screen in 2006, with Kent making a cameo appearance. The historic city of Canterbury, with its stunning cathedral, was used as a filming location for several scenes. The city's rich history and architectural beauty provided the perfect backdrop for this thrilling mystery.

The production team also made use of the county's picturesque countryside, with the village of Wye and the nearby St. Mildred's Church featuring in the film. Kent's ability to offer a mix of historic cityscapes and rural charm made it an ideal location for this global blockbuster.

Kent's Supporting Roles: Movies with Kentish Scenes

The Other Boleyn Girl (2008)

This historical drama, based on Philippa Gregory's novel, tells the story of Anne Boleyn and her sister Mary. While the majority of the film was shot in Hungary, Kent played a supporting role with several scenes filmed in the county.

The magnificent Hever Castle, located in the Edenbridge area, stood in for the Boleyn family's ancestral home. The castle's stunning architecture and beautiful gardens provided the perfect setting for this period piece.

V for Vendetta (2005)

This dystopian thriller, based on Alan Moore's graphic novel, features a futuristic London as its primary setting. While most of the film was shot in Germany, Kent's Bluewater Shopping Centre made a brief appearance as a futuristic shopping district.

This unexpected appearance highlights Kent's versatility as a filming location, capable of doubling for both historic cityscapes and futuristic metropolises.

Kent's Behind-the-Scenes Magic: Film Studios and Production Facilities

The Creative Quarter, Folkestone

Kent's Creative Quarter in Folkestone is a thriving hub for the film and television industry. This bustling area is home to several production companies, post-production facilities, and film studios.

Recent projects to have benefited from the Creative Quarter's facilities include the hit TV series "The Great" and the upcoming film "The Personal History of David Copperfield," directed by Armando Iannucci.

Pinewood Studios, Iver Heath

While not strictly in Kent, the world-famous Pinewood Studios is just a stone's throw away from the county's border. This iconic film studio has been home to some of the most memorable movies in cinematic history, including the James Bond franchise and the original Star Wars trilogy.

Kent's proximity to Pinewood Studios has made it an attractive location for film productions, with many projects choosing to base themselves in the county while utilizing the studio's facilities.

Discovering Kent's Cinematic Treasures: Film Tours and Trails

If you're a movie enthusiast eager to explore Kent's cinematic history firsthand, there are plenty of ways to get involved. Here are a few suggestions:

1. 1. The Hobbit Trail: This self-guided tour takes you through some of the locations used in Peter Jackson's epic trilogy. From ancient forests to picturesque villages, the trail offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of Middle-earth.
2. 2. Canterbury Cathedral Tours: While not exclusively focused on film locations, Canterbury Cathedral's guided tours often include insights into the cathedral's appearances on the silver screen. The cathedral has featured in various movies and TV shows, including "The Other Boleyn Girl" and "The Da Vinci Code."
3. 3. Hever Castle and Gardens: This stunning castle and its beautiful gardens have played host to several film productions, including "The Other Boleyn Girl" and "The Princess Bride." Visitors can explore the castle's historic rooms and gardens, imagining the scenes that were once filmed there.

Kent's rich cinematic history is just one reason to visit this beautiful county. From its stunning landscapes to its historic cities, Kent offers a wealth of experiences for movie lovers and curious travelers alike. So, grab your popcorn, and let's celebrate the magic of movies in Kent!