There’s something thrilling and surreal about walking through landscapes you’ve only ever seen on screen; sauntering through moorlands like Catherine Earnshaw, or striding through grand halls straight out of Hogwarts. In recent years, set-jetting – travelling to locations specifically made famous by television or film productions – has exploded in popularity, and it ticks all the boxes for outdoor enthusiasts, too.
Combine a visit to your favourite movie’s famous backdrop with your broader travel itinerary, and you’ll open up a world of walking possibilities, whether you’re following in the footsteps of Harry Potter through the English countryside or exploring the rugged coastlines of Poldark’s Cornwall. We’ve compiled some tips, combined with recommended locations, for your set-jetting journey.
Why set-jetting works for walkers
When you’re planning your next hike, it can be difficult to narrow down the exact route and best views. If you throw set-jetting into the mix, it’ll help pinpoint what most interests you and create an even more immersive experience. After all, the scenery already proved itself on camera, and film and TV location scouts spend months finding the most photogenic spots, doing all the hard work for you!
Beyond the stunning visuals, set-jetting walks will surely help you meet fellow travellers on the trail, and the shared allure of the location will create an instant connection: “Are you here for the Pride and Prejudice locations, too?” It creates community in a way that not all routes do.
Planning your set-jetting adventure
Start by identifying which productions genuinely inspire you. There’s no point forcing yourself to visit a Game of Thrones location if you’ve never watched an episode. Make a list of your favourite shows and films, then research which ones were filmed in accessible outdoor locations. Many productions now lean into their filming heritage, with official trails, visitor centres, and even guided walks available.
Timing matters more than you might think. Popular filming locations can get busy during peak season, particularly those associated with big franchises like Doctor Who. If you’re hoping to capture that perfect, cinematic moment, consider visiting during shoulder season or on weekdays. Early mornings often reward dedicated visitors with crowd-free experiences and that magical, atmospheric light that made the location film-worthy in the first place.
Research the practicalities before you go. Some filming locations sit on private land with restricted access, whilst others require permits or have seasonal closures. Check local authority websites and recent visitor reviews to avoid disappointment. Weather conditions that looked dramatic on screen might translate to challenging walking conditions in real life, so pack accordingly.
Getting there and making it memorable
Check accessibility. Set-jetting trails are often not well reachable by public transportation, unless you’re willing to travel at weird times and with inconvenient restrictions on luggage. While it’s tempting to drive directly to famous filming locations, many screen-worthy spots lack convenient parking – assuming you have no problem renting a car and driving on unfamiliar roads. As an alternative, you can consider door-to-door travel services that drop you at trailheads and collect you at different endpoints so that you can experience the characters’ journey without backtracking.
Bring your phone fully charged to get those perfect snaps that align exactly with your favourite scenes. Make sure to experience the landscape with your own eyes, but downloading stills from the production beforehand can create satisfying before-and-after comparison shots that will make your visit even more worth it.
Pack more than just the essentials. Filming locations were chosen for drama, which often means exposed positions, changeable weather, and longer walking times than expected. That stunning clifftop scene probably involved a crew huddling against bitter wind between takes. Bring extra layers, plenty of water, and proper navigation tools.
Respecting locations and going off-trail
These locations existed long before they appeared on screen. Treat them with respect and stick to established paths, take all litter with you, and be mindful of wildlife. Some filming spots have suffered from their own success, with vegetation trampled and trails eroding. If you notice overuse, consider visiting a less-famous location from the same production.
The best set-jetting walks use the screen connection as a starting point. That dramatic scene might have lasted three minutes, but the surrounding landscape offers hours of walking. Local tourist information centres have excellent suggestions for extending your route or discovering nearby trails. Support local businesses too; film tourism brings economic benefits to rural areas, and your patronage helps maintain that positive relationship.
Creating your own adventure
With all the excitement of recreating screen moments, it can be easy to forget about the memories you’re making on your own. Yes, take that iconic photograph, but then walk further! Explore paths the camera didn’t follow.
These locations have captivated directors and millions of viewers for good reason – so pick your production, plan your route and all the extras, pack your boots, and set off. The best adventures are waiting just beyond the screen.
Author Bio:
This article was contributed by Daytrip, a travel service connecting curious travellers with local, English-speaking drivers for door-to-door journeys. Whether you’re exploring filming locations or seeking authentic travel experiences, Daytrip helps you discover the scenic routes between destinations.