What do you love most about Kent? The fantastic history, the marvellous architecture, the breath-taking landscapes? Well, whatever it is, it’s certainly won the hearts of TV and filmmakers alike. Kent’s gems have time and time again found themselves as the backdrop to the drama, romance, action, and comedy that we all know and love. And it’s no surprise, really…with such grand beauty and pizzazz, Kent was made for the big screen. Whether you’re in the vibrant sea-side town of Margate, or the 13th century medieval Tonbridge Castle, you’re standing at the spot where movie magic has taken place. We’ve compiled a list of some of those star-studded spots around the county, so pack a bag, pop into Hair & Make-Up, and head out for your film-tastic day in Kent!
The Crown
9th November 2022
Who’s ready for season 5 of The Crown? This is at the top of our watchlist, and we’re saving the date in our diaries! Full of drama, suspense, love and hate, there is something for everyone in this show, and Kent is here to provide the backdrop for many of the royally dramatic on-screen moments! Once again, the Historic Dockyard Chatham has a starring role, with its Georgian and Victorian buildings and rich history providing the perfect setting. Also starring in the show is Cobham Hall, the beautiful 16th century house, surrounded by 150 acres of landscape garden. Now a private boarding school, tours are still available (and highly recommended!) for walking around the grounds and pretending to be a royal for the day. Moving from the north coast to the south, the town of Lydd in Romney Marsh also features in the show. The most southerly town in Kent, Lydd has all of the quaintness, history, and charm fit for a royal. Take a look at the surrounding area and see all there is to discover!
Empire of Light
13th January 2023
Perhaps Kent’s biggest call to fame this year is its starring role in Sam Mendes’ upcoming Empire of Light. Set in an English seaside town in the 80s, the film tells a story of love, life, and the art of movie-going. With its vibrant culture, wonderful community, and historic architecture, it’s unsurprising that Margate was the chosen spot for this “love letter to the movies”. You won’t need to be eagle-eyed to notice familiar spots throughout, as Dreamland transforms into Empire Cinema and Margate train station makes an appearance. See the brilliant Olivia Colman, Michael Ward, and Colin Firth evoke sadness, passion, love, and determination in Empire of Light this January.
Blood, Sex and Royalty
23rd November
A modern take on the British royal drama, this 3 part docu drama coming soon to Netflix features monarchs including Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII. So of course, filming had to take place at the 13th childhood home of Anne Boleyn - Hever Castle. Catch the show and all its excitement at the end of this month, and learn all you need to know through interviews with the castle's Assistant Curator, Dr Owen Emmerson.
Enola Holmes
4th November 2022
Mystery, suspense, action, and adventure return once more to Kent for the filming of Enola Holmes 2! Set in the late 19th century, the story follows the sister of Sherlock Holmes as she solves the mystery of her missing brother. And where better to get a historical backdrop in Kent than at the Historic Dockyard Chatham, built in the 16th century and still open today to visitors. With its mighty, large-scale setting, and original architecture from the time it was built, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the Dockyard as Enola and co solve mysteries, face risks, and take on adventures of a lifetime!
The Larkins
16th October 2022
The new 6-part series, The Larkins, is a true homage to our county. Set in 1950s Kent and based on the H.E. Bates novel The Darling Buds of May, you’re sure to see lots of familiar places while watching. From 17th century manor house Squerryes Court in Westerham to the magnificent Tonbridge Castle, Canterbury Prison to East Lodge in Leigh, Kent has certainly made its debut. Keep an eye out while watching the iconic Larkin family and their lives in the idyllic Kent countryside.
It’s All Coming Back to Me
10th February 2023
In this upcoming romantic drama, a woman coping with the recent loss of her partner tries texting his phone number, unaware that the number has been reassigned to someone new. The two soon form a connection, and tell a story of love, loss, and growth. Based on a novel by Sofie Cramer, this heart-warming story will bring tears to your eyes and give you a new outlook on life. Filmed on a private farm in Swale, the Kent countryside backdrops many on screen moments. It’s no surprise, either…being the place where “coast meets countryside”, the North Kentish setting is the perfect mix of awe-inspiring, breath-taking, heart-moving beauty. Why not explore everything you can do and see in Swale next year?
Living
4th November 2022
Starring Bill Nighy, this upcoming drama tells the story of a bureaucrat in 1950s London facing a fatal illness. Directed by Oliver Hermanus, you’ll be able to see lots of Kent’s iconic backdrops throughout the length of the movie. Once again, the Historic Dockyard Chatham makes its way onto the big screen (it’s really making moves in the filming scene!) and you’ll also be able to spot the King’s Theatre in Chatham. Head along to cinemas this November and you might just spot somewhere you recognise!
A Spy Among Friends
Thursday 8th December
Catch the upcoming thriller on ITV this year and see if you can spot Kent amongst the heart-racing, drama packed scenes. Based on the best-selling book by Ben Macintyre, the story follows the complex relationship between notorious double agent Kim Philby (played by Guy Pearce) and MI6 colleague Nicholas Elliott (Damian Lewis). Where better to unravel mysteries and create suspense than the wonderful Historic Dockyard Chatham – see if you can spot the HMS Cavalier as it doubles as a Russian ship and dock!
Whitstable Pearl
2023
Kent’s coastline is making its way onto the big screen town by town! And the clue’s in the name with this one, really. Set on the coastal town of Whitstable, local restaurant owner Pearl Nolan, played by the wonderful Kerry Godliman, sets up her own private detective agency and soon becomes involved in a deadly case. See the high street, Tankerton beach, Harbour Street and much more of the Whitstable area in the show!
Luther: The Fallen Sun
Watch this year as the infamous detective Luther returns to the big screen. Starring Idris Elba, this 2023 film picks up where the award-winning TV show left off, bringing the same suspense and drama with added intrigue and mystery. Amidst the action, see if you can spot Dover and its iconic White Cliffs...Kent, now is your time to shine!
