If you’re staying at Castlerigg Hall, you’re in the ideal spot to explore some of these famous locations.
Star Wars: The Force Awakens – Derwentwater & Borrowdale
Yes, Star Wars came to Keswick in the Lake District! The production team scouted many UK locations for the $2 billion blockbuster The Force Awakens, and Derwentwater was one of them. Even more exciting, if you’re staying at Castlerigg Hall, you don’t have to travel far to experience this cinematic magic. The view from the campsite looks directly over Derwentwater and Borrowdale, the very same scenery that inspired the backdrop of the film. Imagine gazing out at the same stunning landscape that helped bring the Star Wars universe to life!
You can stand here in the grounds and imagine X-Wings soaring over the water See video. For a more immersive experience, take a lake cruise and see the scenery from a Jedi’s perspective.
The flight path of the Millennium Falcon over Castlerigg Hall Caravan Camping Glamping Park
Peter Rabbit – Windermere & Ambleside
The beloved Peter Rabbit movies, featuring James Corden as the voice of Peter, brought Beatrix Potter’s characters to life in the very landscape that inspired them. The 2018 Peter Rabbit 1 movie was filmed around Windermere and Ambleside, making great use of the charming countryside and quaint villages. The 2021 Peter Rabbit 2 movie was predominantly filmed in Australia but certain scenes include clips filmed in Ambleside and at Haverthwaite Station. To visit Windermere from Castlerigg Hall you can take the 555 Stagecoach bus which stops just a short walk from site.
Bridget Jones – Mad About the Boy – Keswick
The latest Bridget Jones film chose Keswick as one of its filming locations. One standout location is Harrop Tarn, a stunning hidden gem that can be reached directly from Castlerigg Hall without crossing any roads—though it is a long walk. For a more manageable journey, we recommend taking the 555 bus from our lane end and getting off at the end of Thirlmere. From there, you can walk back to the park, experiencing the breathtaking scenery featured in the film along the way.
Miss Potter – Derwentwater, Coniston and Workington
Beatrix Potter’s life and work are deeply connected to the Lake District. The 2006 film Miss Potter, starring Renée Zellweger, captured this beautifully. Just a short walk from Castlerigg Hall are the shores of Derwentwater where scenes were filmed.
And to venture into Miss Potter’s world further, take a walk around Lingholm’s Estate gardens where Beatrix Potter spent summers as a child.
Other Lake District locations in the Miss Potter film are Coniston and The Rum Story in Whitehaven which was used as William Heelis’ office.
The A Word – Keswick, Coniston and Kendal
The BBC drama The A Word, about a family dealing with autism, made great use of the Lake District’s stunning scenery. The series is set in a fictional Cumbrian town which was filmed using several places including Keswick, Coniston, Thirlmere, Buttermere and Kendal.The family’s home is located on the iconic Newland’s Valley, a short drive from Keswick.
Catbells silhouetted by the lighting in Newlands. The filming of The A Word. Photo taken from Castlerigg Hall.
Swallows and Amazons – Coniston & Derwentwater
The classic adventure story Swallows and Amazons was filmed in various parts of the Lake District. The 2016 movie adaptation used Coniston Water as the main setting for Wild Cat Island.
However, some scenes were filmed closer to Keswick, around Derwentwater. The tranquil islands here are perfect for your own Swallows and Amazons adventure – rent a kayak or take a guided boat tour.
Mission: Impossible in the Lake District
Even Ethan Hunt couldn’t resist the dramatic landscapes of the Lake District! Mission: Impossible 7 – Dead Reckoning Part One filmed scenes in the Buttermere Valley. Shot during the summers of 2021 and 2022, the Lake District’s fells and winding roads added a thrilling, cinematic edge to Tom Cruise’s latest adventure. To visit this region from Castlerigg Hall take a drive over the scenic Newlands Pass.
Withnail and I – Crow Crag (Sleddale Hall, near Shap)
This 1987 cult classic starring Richard E. Grant has a legendary status. The run-down cottage where Withnail and Marwood retreat is Sleddale Hall, just outside the Lake District, near Shap.
It’s a bit of a trek, but fans of the film make pilgrimages here. If you’re feeling adventurous, it’s about a 40-minute drive from Keswick, followed by a short hike.
Paddington 2 – Ullswater
Is there a character more synonymous with Britain than Paddington? With its heartwarming charm, love of marmalade, and iconic adventures, Paddington captures the very essence of British storytelling. And with scenes filmed right here in the Lake District, visitors can step into the bear’s world and explore the stunning landscapes that brought his journey to life.Some of the memorable train scenes in Paddington 2 were filmed along Ullswater, offering breathtaking views of the fells.
A boat trip on Ullswater Steamers will take you past many of the same landscapes seen in the film. You could even stock up on local marmalade from our on-site shop for your trip!
The Huntsman: Winter’s War – Cathedral Cave, Langdale
A short drive from Keswick, but well worth the visit, is Cathedral Cave in Langdale. This dramatic setting was used in The Huntsman: Winter’s War, starring Chris Hemsworth and Charlize Theron.
The towering rock walls and eerie lighting make it feel like a fantasy world. You can explore the cave yourself – it’s a short walk from Little Langdale.
Deep Water – Windermere, Staveley & Bowness
One of the big TV hits of 2019 was the ITV drama Deep Water, starring Anna Friel. The show was based on the 1957 book by Patricia Highsmith. The series takes full advantage of the Lake District’s stunning lakes and villages, with key scenes filmed around Windermere and Staveley. Fans of the show can visit these locations and relive some of the drama while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
ITV’s Love Life – Filmed at Castlerigg Hall (2011)
In November 2011, Castlerigg Hall became a bustling film set for ITV’s three-part drama Love Life, starring Alexander Armstrong, Andrea Lowe and Rob James-Collier.
The production team chose our park for its spectacular views across Derwentwater towards Catbells. Two static caravans arrived for filming, along with more than 60 cast and crew. The most memorable sight was an enormous lighting crane illuminating the park during night filming!
Discover the full behind-the-scenes story, complete with original photographs and personal memories, in our Love Life filming at Castlerigg Hall blog.
‘David Jackson with Andrea Lowe and Alexander Armstrong filming ‘Love Life’ at Castlerigg Hall
Tommy – Walla Crag, Keswick
A 1975 classic, featuring Roger Daltrey of The Who. Some iconic scenes were shot on Walla Crag, which is just a short walk from Castlerigg Hall. Friends who live on the farm close to Castlerigg Hall recall Daltrey carving his name onto one of their wooden troughs! The rock-opera film boasted an all-star cast, including Jack Nicholson, Oliver Reed, Elton John, and Tina Turner.
Ann Margret and Robert Powell on the summit of Walla Crag
The Clouded Yellow – Catbells, Keswick
Released in 1950, The Clouded Yellow is a classic British thriller starring Jean Simmons and Trevor Howard. One of its most dramatic scenes was filmed on Newlands Pass and the slopes of Catbells, where a tense police search unfolds across the fells. Castlerigg Hall’s very own John Jackson appeared as an extra, dressed as a policeman and riding his motorbike as part of the search party. Gazing at the view from Castlerigg Hall, it’s no wonder Catbells was used to provide a stunning natural backdrop for the action.
Why the Lake District is a Dream Destination for Film, TV, and Visitors
The Lake District isn’t just a filmmaker’s paradise—it’s the perfect place for visitors to step into the world of their favourite movies and shows.
- Sweeping landscapes create the perfect setting for fantasy and adventure.
- Charming villages bring period dramas to life.
- Dramatic fells and caves add excitement to action-packed scenes.
Plus, with easy access from Manchester International Airport, global films can be produced at these iconic locations with ease.
Explore the Film Locations from Castlerigg Hall
If you’re staying with us, you’re already in the heart of movie magic. Many of these locations are within a short drive or hike from the campsite. Why not plan a film-themed adventure during your stay?
The Lake District isn’t just for walkers and nature lovers – it’s a place where stories come to life. Whether you’re a film buff or just love stunning locations, exploring these spots will make your stay even more special.
So grab your camera, step into the scenery, and walk in the footsteps of movie legends!
If you head to any of these locations on your next trip to Castlerigg Hall, share your photos with us on our social channels–we’d love to see what you discover!
Ricky Tomlinson and Ralf Little filming a Very Northern Road Trip at Castlerigg Hall
Rainy Days: Watching a Film in the Keswick
The Lake District is famous for its breathtaking landscapes—but let’s be honest, the weather doesn’t always play along! If rain clouds roll in, why not swap outdoor adventures for a cosy cinema experience?
Keswick is home to The Alhambra Cinema, a charming independent picture house that has been entertaining film lovers for over 100 years. With a mix of blockbusters, indie films, and family favourites, it’s the perfect place to escape the drizzle.
Theatre by the Lake is another option to watch film, with an iconic location on the shores of Derwentwater.
A short drive away, Rheged Centre in Penrith offers another great option, featuring a giant cinema screen with state of the art technology. Rheged often showcase films with a local or cultural twist.
So, if the fells are shrouded in mist, grab some popcorn, sink into a comfy seat, and enjoy a film while the Lake District’s ever-changing weather does its thing outside!
