Belvoir Castle: A Star of the Screen and a Must-See for Film Lovers

Perched high above the Vale of Belvoir and bursting with Regency splendour, Belvoir Castle is not only one of the most striking historic estates in the region—it’s also a bona fide film and TV favourite, attracting production crews from around the world. Its dramatic hilltop position, lavish interiors and fairytale silhouette make it an irresistible backdrop for storytelling on screen.

Whether you’re a fan of royal dramas, Hollywood thrillers, or classic period films, stepping inside Belvoir Castle feels like walking straight onto a film set.

A Cinematic Favourite

Belvoir Castle’s filmography is impressively long, with productions spanning decades. It has hosted everything from historical dramas to blockbuster thrillers:

• Little Lord Fauntleroy (1980) – Belvoir’s grand rooms brought this classic story to life.
• The Golden Bowl – Its opulent interiors starred alongside a high‑profile cast including Kate Beckinsale and Uma Thurman.
• The Da Vinci Code – The castle’s exterior was transformed via CGI into Castle Gandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence.
• The Young Victoria – Belvoir’s Chinese Bedroom, Tapestry Room, Regent’s Gallery and King’s Room all appeared, doubling as royal apartments and honeymoon suites.
• Victoria & Abdul (2017) – The castle returned to the big screen in this acclaimed drama starring Judi Dench.

Belvoir Castle as Windsor in The Crown

For fans of Netflix’s The Crown, Belvoir Castle is an absolute highlight. Its Regency architecture and stately rooms made it the perfect stand‑in for Windsor Castle in the show’s first three seasons.

• Used extensively for interiors and key scenes depicting royal life
• Featured ornate spaces like the Elizabeth Room and Regent’s Gallery

Walking through these rooms today, visitors can instantly recognise the settings from some of the series’ most iconic moments.

Beyond the Screen: A Visit Filled with History and Views

While beloved by filmmakers, Belvoir Castle remains first and foremost a treasure of English heritage. Dating back to the 11th century and rebuilt in stunning Gothic Revival style, the castle boasts:

• Turrets and towers offering sweeping countryside views
• Ornate state rooms rich with art, silk-draped walls, and intricate carvings
• Vast landscaped grounds that complete the fairytale atmosphere

Explore Belvoir Castle for Yourself

Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of Queen Victoria, revisiting scenes from The Crown, or simply soaking up the castle’s majestic charm, Belvoir Castle offers an unforgettable day out for history enthusiasts, film buffs, and families alike.

Visit the Belvoir Castle website to plan your trip.