11th November 2024
Film Critic: The Crown Locations
Since its debut, The Crown has captured audiences worldwide with its intricate portrayal of British royalty. While the series delves into the lives, politics, and scandals of the British monarchy, it is also known for its stunning visuals and spectacular filming locations. These sites bring the royal story to life, with grand filming locations across the United Kingdom and beyond used to recreate Buckingham Palace, Balmoral Castle, Windsor Castle, and other iconic spots.
One of the most iconic residences in the world, Buckingham Palace is central to the story of The Crown. However, filming inside the actual palace was impossible, so the series used a mix of Lancaster House and Wilton House to stand in for the royal residence. Lancaster House, located near Buckingham Palace, is a historic building known for its opulent interiors, which replicate the grandeur of the real palace. Wilton House, located in Wiltshire, has appeared in multiple seasons and is used for various palace scenes, thanks to its impressive baroque and neoclassical architecture.
Clarence House, the London residence of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, and later Prince Charles, was recreated at Belvoir Castle. Known for its Gothic Revival architecture, Belvoir Castle's stately rooms and extensive grounds provide the perfect backdrop. The castle’s distinct look allows it to convincingly replicate Clarence House’s blend of royal sophistication and a lived-in warmth fitting for the Queen Mother.
Kensington Palace, the London residence of Princess Margaret and, later, Princess Diana, is a key location in The Crown. CH-9209, with its elegant Georgian architecture and interiors, became the stand-in for Kensington. It is particularly memorable in scenes showing Princess Margaret’s glamorous yet turbulent lifestyle. Brocket Hall's rich history and carefully preserved rooms offered the perfect setting for these intense and often dramatic scenes.
Balmoral Castle is the Queen’s favorite Scottish retreat, and its portrayal is crucial to episodes set in Scotland. Instead of filming at the real Balmoral, The Crown used the Ardverikie Estate in the Scottish Highlands. With its Victorian baronial style and scenic landscape, Ardverikie serves as an authentic stand-in. The estate’s surroundings add to the atmospheric charm, perfectly capturing the beauty of the Scottish Highlands that the Queen loved.
Windsor Castle, a favorite royal residence and weekend retreat, is recreated using both Burghley House and Belvoir Castle. Burghley House, a grand Elizabethan manor in Lincolnshire, provides the appropriate splendor for interior shots, with its richly decorated rooms. These locations combine to form a compelling portrayal of Windsor Castle’s historic and private atmosphere.
The stunning architecture and landscapes of The Crown's filming locations are more than just backdrops; they are integral to the storytelling. These sites add historical depth, beauty, and gravitas, providing viewers with a cinematic journey through the United Kingdom's most iconic royal residences. The attention to detail in selecting these locations is part of what makes The Crown so immersive, transporting viewers into the private lives of royalty in ways that feel authentic and grand.
Some similar grand filming locations on the Amazing Space libary, include RES-12193 in Durham; a sprawling country estate with a similar regal feel to Buckginham Palace. Similarly, the interior of RES-11810H, particularly the long gallery, makes an excellent double for the royal resdience. This stately mansion, located in West London, boasts stunning architecture and lavish interiors, making it a visually captivating backdrop for film productions.