Murder Mystery Magic Comes to Buckinghamshire with The Thursday Murder Club
Lights, Camera, Buckinghamshire! When you think of Hollywood blockbusters and filming locations, leafy Bucks doesn’t spring to mind. But with its lush countryside, historic estates, and state-of-the-art studios, Bucks is fast becoming one of the UK’s most sought-after filming locations. Notable movies filmed here include the recent star-studded The Thursday Murder Club, Wicked and Deadpool and Wolverine. Other timeless classics such as Goldfinger, Harry Potter and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory have also been captured here in addition to many television family favourites including Downton Abbey, Midsomer Murders and Afterlife with Ricky Gervais.
Why is Bucks favoured by the film makers?
Bucks has been part of Britain’s cinematic history for decades. Pinewood Studios, nestled in Iver Heath, is one of the most famous film studios in the world. It’s the birthplace of some of cinema’s most iconic franchises—from the suave, martini-sipping James Bond to the intergalactic battles of Star Wars. But Bucks’ film history isn’t confined to the studios. The county’s rich architectural heritage has made it a go-to location for period dramas and fantasy films. Waddesdon Manor, West Wycombe Park and Cliveden House have all made appearances on screen, serving as regal backdrops for both film and TV productions.
Where are the go-to towns for the filming aficionados?
The recent blockbuster The Thursday Murder Club is filmed in a range of towns including streets in Beaconsfield and Gerrards Cross, Slough ice rink and the Red Lion pub in Little Missenden which is host to a pivotal moment in the film. Creative juices are clearly flowing in this part of Bucks as Little Missenden is just a mile from its bigger sibling, Great Missenden, which is home to the fantastic Roald Dahl Museum. Two historic hotels in Amersham Old town were also integral to the Four Weddings and a Funeral film and the bars are a perfect spot to have a drink and soak up the atmosphere.
Other favourite towns for film sets include the quaint village of Turville near High Wycombe, with its iconic windmill that featured in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. The village of Hambleden, just west of Marlow, and nestled in the heart of the Chilterns, is also a sought-after location for its historic charm. Walkers are spoilt for vistas here with the range of stunning walks, and the National Trust has a trail that is well signposted.
Other fantastic filming locations that are well worth visiting
Burnham Beeches, located near to the village of Farnham Common, encompasses 540 acres of ancient woodland and wildlife habitats. Two of the Harry Potter films have been shot here amongst other fantasy movies such as Robin Hood and Maleficent. When not looking over your shoulder for any ‘baddies’, visitors can enjoy the large open green space perfect for ball games and picnics. The area is popular with walkers, cyclists and horse riders who all enjoy stopping at the excellent Beeches Café.
Black Park Country Park covers over 500 acres of woodland, heathland and open space in South Bucks. Harry Potter filming has also taken place here in addition to the Marvel movies and the most recent adaptation of Cinderella. With family friendly attractions, such as the adventure playground and Go Ape, miles of beautiful woodland tracks and trails perfect for cycling and jogging, the park offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Bekonscot Model Village in Beaconsfield was established in 1929 and is the oldest original model village in the world. The village has been the backdrop for many television shows, interviews and adverts and was the primary location for a Midsomer Murders episode. Set in 1.5 acres of immaculate gardens and finely detailed model buildings it captures rural English life in the 1930s. The highlight of the village is the network of model trains running throughout the village and a ride-on light railway train for all ages.
Economic impact of filming in Bucks
The economic impact of the film industry in Buckinghamshire is hard to overstate. From hospitality to construction, transport to catering, local businesses of all sizes are benefiting from the steady influx of productions. The boost to the economy and the hospitality sector is a bonus for all residents keeping our High Streets busy. According to the Buckinghamshire Local Enterprise Partnership (BLEP), the creative industries are among the fastest-growing sectors in the region, contributing millions to the local GDP.
Final Cut
Buckinghamshire may have once played a supporting role in the UK’s film industry, but today it’s stepping into the spotlight. With cutting-edge facilities, natural beauty and a growing creative workforce, Bucks is proving itself as a leading location for film and television production—not just in the UK, but globally.
With stunning backdrop of Bucks visible in so many movies it is no wonder that people are keen to move to the area. If you have been seduced by the filmset locations of Bucks and surrounding area and are looking to move to the area then please get in touch. Contact us on 01494 672086 or email enquiries@chilternrelocation.com or visit www.chilternrelocation.com
