Somerset’s Starring Role on the Big Screen

Somerset may be famous for its rolling countryside, historic cities and legendary landmarks, but there’s another reason the county continues to attract visitors from around the world: it’s become one of Britain’s favourite filming locations.

From blockbuster fantasy adventures and post-apocalyptic thrillers to cult British comedies, Somerset’s unique landscapes have provided the backdrop for some of cinema’s most memorable moments. And for guests staying at Middlewick, many of these famous locations are just a short drive away.

Hot Fuzz: Somerset’s Most Famous Film

When it comes to films set in Somerset, Hot Fuzz is undoubtedly the county’s most recognisable star.

Released in 2007, Edgar Wright’s comedy transformed the beautiful city of Wells into the fictional village of Sandford. The city’s medieval streets, market square and magnificent cathedral feature throughout the film, creating one of the most distinctive settings in modern British cinema.

Today, Wells remains a must-visit destination for fans of the movie. Walk through the market place, explore the cathedral precincts and you’ll quickly spot locations from some of the film’s most memorable scenes.

Just twenty minutes from Middlewick, it’s one of the easiest film-location day trips in Somerset.

Masters of the Universe: He-Man Comes to Somerset

One of the biggest productions to film in Somerset in recent years is the upcoming Masters of the Universe movie.

During filming, production crews descended on Wells Cathedral and the spectacular caves of Wookey Hole, transforming these historic Somerset landmarks into locations from the mythical world of Eternia.

The dramatic Gothic architecture of Wells Cathedral proved the perfect backdrop for epic battle sequences, while Wookey Hole’s ancient cave system offered an otherworldly setting worthy of a fantasy blockbuster.

For local residents, it was exciting to see Somerset at the centre of a major Hollywood production. For visitors, it’s another reminder of how cinematic the county truly is.

28 Years Later: A Different Side of Somerset

Danny Boyle’s 28 Years Later showcased a very different Somerset.

Known for its peaceful villages and picturesque countryside, the county was transformed into part of a haunting, post-apocalyptic Britain. Quiet roads, rural landscapes and isolated locations provided the perfect atmosphere for the latest chapter in the iconic zombie franchise.

It’s a testament to Somerset’s versatility that the same landscapes can appear warm and welcoming in one film, and eerie and deserted in another.

Glastonbury on Screen

While the county has hosted major film productions, Glastonbury itself has also played a role in film and television.

The town’s unique mix of history, spirituality and folklore has long attracted filmmakers and documentary makers. Glastonbury Tor, perhaps Somerset’s most iconic landmark, has appeared in numerous productions exploring British mythology, Arthurian legend and the area’s rich cultural heritage.

The internationally renowned Glastonbury Festival has also been the subject of several documentaries, bringing images of Worthy Farm, the Tor and the surrounding landscape to audiences around the world.

For visitors staying at Middlewick, these famous sights are quite literally on the doorstep.

More Productions Filmed in Somerset

Somerset’s impressive screen résumé includes many other productions, including:

• Wolf Hall
• The Libertine
• The Remains of the Day
• Poldark
• Numerous television dramas, documentaries and historical productions

The county’s combination of historic architecture, dramatic landscapes and rural beauty continues to make it a favourite among location scouts.

Why Filmmakers Love Somerset

There are few places in Britain that offer such a variety of locations within a relatively small area.

Within an hour’s drive you can find:

• Medieval cathedrals
• Historic market towns
• Ancient caves
• Dramatic gorges
• Rolling countryside
• Legendary landmarks such as Glastonbury Tor

This extraordinary variety allows filmmakers to create everything from fantasy kingdoms and historical dramas to modern thrillers without leaving the county.

Explore Somerset’s Film Locations from Middlewick

One of the joys of staying at Middlewick is discovering just how much of Somerset’s cinematic landscape lies nearby.

A perfect film-inspired day out could include:

• Sunrise at Glastonbury Tor
• Exploring Wells Cathedral
• A stroll around Wells Market Place from Hot Fuzz
• A visit to Wookey Hole, featured in Masters of the Universe
• An afternoon at Cheddar Gorge

Whether you’re a fan of British comedy, fantasy adventures or epic thrillers, Somerset offers a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes of some of the UK’s most memorable productions.

And after a day exploring famous filming locations, Middlewick provides the perfect place to relax, unwind and enjoy the scenery that continues to inspire filmmakers from around the world.