‘Every corner looks like it’s waiting for a film crew’
The village of Castle Combe has been seen on screen many times (Image: Getty Images)
The MI5 thriller Slow Horses returned for its fifth season on Apple TV+ this month. Adapted from Mick Herron’s Slough House novels, the espionage drama stars TV legend Gary Oldman and is mostly set in some of the grittier parts of London.
Long time fans of the show will be familiar with the fictional village of Upshott where MI5 agent River Cartwright is sent to track down an assassin in season two. An incredible backdrop for the suspenseful world of spies and misadventure, the real-life village of Castle Combe has been a favourite among film and television producers for decades.
Its first brush with Hollywood came in 1967, when crews descended on the village to film the musical Doctor Dolittle. Despite weather-related delays and local objections to set changes, the production firmly established Castle Combe as a prime filming location.
Since then, directors have returned repeatedly. In 2007, Matthew Vaughn’s fantasy Stardust transformed the village into the fictional town of Wall, setting the scene for a magical journey starring Claire Danes, Michelle Pfeiffer and Robert De Niro.
In 2010, Castle Combe appeared in The Wolfman, a gothic horror starring Benicio Del Toro and Anthony Hopkins, where its medieval character and narrow lanes perfectly complemented the film’s 19th-century setting.
Castle Combe Cottage is a cosy bolthole
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Sykes Cottages
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Sykes Cottages has a selection of properties in the pretty village that is a a favourite among film and television producers.
Perhaps its most notable appearance was in 2011, when Steven Spielberg selected Castle Combe for pivotal scenes in War Horse, using the village to depict early-20th-century Devon in this World War I drama adapted from Michael Morpurgo’s novel.
From spies to soldiers, magical adventures to gothic horror, Castle Combe continues to enchant filmmakers and audiences alike, its timeless streets providing a cinematic charm that never fades.
It’s not just the camera that can’t get enough of Castle Combe, as the village is widely referred to as ‘as the prettiest village in England.’ Best known for its picture-perfect Cotswold stone cottages, medieval bridge and unspoilt charm, the village offers picture-perfect scenery that makes it one of the most popular destinations in the Cotswolds.
Gary Oldman spy thriller Slow Horses transformed Castle Combe into the fictional village of Upshott(Image: Apple/The Mirror)
Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding somewhere to stay in this quiet corner of the Cotswolds. Castle Combe Cottage is just one example; a honey-coloured cottage dating back hundreds of years, filled with fireplaces, lead windows and traditional beams.
Paddock Barn is perfect for larger groups, being spacious enough to sleep up to 10 guests at a time. With period features, a dedicated games room and a large garden, it serves as a convenient base from which to explore the village and beyond.
Another cosy bolthole in is The Old Museum, a traditional cottage with room for two. Situated in a quiet location, guests will enjoy the wood burner and countryside views.
Paddock Barn in Castle Combe (Image: Sykes Cottages)
For those would want to explore Castle Combe while staying closer to the larger towns of Corsham and Chippenham, 23 Pickwick is a stunning Grade II listed Bath stone country home with a beautiful walled garden. Large enough to sleep up to 12 guests, its splendour will make any guest feel like a celebrity.
Folks who have already visited Castle Combe have left thousand of reviews on Tripadvisor. One described the village as a “Fairytale without the cheese” adding: “Every corner looks like it’s waiting for a film crew, the place oozes charm without trying too hard, and it delivers exactly what you hope for.”
Stay like a celebrity in the Cotswolds(Image: Holiday Cottages)
Another exclaimed: “Time has stopped in this quaint little place. No doubt is the most picturesque place in England. It’s like you stepped into the Jane Austen Regency era, I was expecting Mr Darcy on a horse riding past any moment.”
A third chimed in with: “England at its best! Such a beautiful clean English village. Like stepping back in time. The walk around the manor hotel is a must . The gardens are stunning.”
Some visitors found it a little crowded during the summer with one noting: “It’s a tiny crowded village that you can see in about 10 minutes walking around. There’s not much there not sure why it’s so over hyped.”
Most visitors who found the village to be charming. Another five-star review said: “Best village experience, the beauty and rich charming village, medieval architecture, picturesque countryside view, it was worth the visit.”
