Waverley sets the scene for film buffs

 

‘Your Waverley’ has released an updated version of the borough’s film map. It features a wealth of new films and recorded TV productions and highlights the stunning locations that have made Waverley a favourite among filmmakers.

 An updated version of the borough’s film map features a wealth of new films and TV productions recorded. This refreshed map highlights the stunning locations that have made Waverley a favourite among filmmakers. This includes many movies made at Dunsfold Airfield and the Winterfold  Woods in Ewhurst.

From the epic battles of Gladiator and the heartwarming scenes of War Horse to the magical moments of Harry Potter and the thrilling action of Transformers, Waverley’s countryside has featured in numerous   Hollywood blockbusters. The borough’s woods, farms, and villages have become familiar sights on the big screen.

Bourne Wood, perhaps the most famous of Waverley’s film locations, gained prominence with Gladiator in 2000. The film’s star, Russell Crowe, often enjoyed the local pubs and restaurants between filming. Bourne Wood has also been featured in Napoleon (2023), Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009), Renegade Nell (2024), Captain America: The First Avenger (2011), Jurassic World (2018), and many more.

Recent productions include Enola Holmes 2 (2022), Black Widow (2021), and Skyfall (2012), which were filmed at Hankley Common. Hot Fuzz (2009) had scenes at Waverley Abbey, while The Witcher (2022) and Snow White and the Huntsman (2012) transformed Frensham Little Pond into a picturesque fishing village. The Holiday (2006) featured Shere and Godalming.

Television shows have also made use of Waverley’s scenic locations. Heartstoppers was filmed at the University of Creative Arts in Farnham, Rosemary & Thyme at Busbridge Lakes, and Top Gear spent its most successful years at Dunsfold Aerodrome. See below for the host of films made there, including Foyle’s War.  The renovation series Money for Nothing was filmed at Witley Recycling Centre.

Waverley’s Portfolio Holder for Planning and Economic Development, Councillor Liz Townsend, said,

“Boosting our economy is at the heart of what we do as a council. Filming in the borough of Waverley not only highlights its stunning landscapes but also brings significant benefits to our local economy, creating jobs, attracting investment, and supporting the growth of local businesses.”

Councillor Steve Williams, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sustainability, added:

“This is a great opportunity for film fans to find and visit places in the borough, where some iconic films and TV shows have been made. I hope residents and visitors alike will enjoy exploring these locations and make the most of getting out in our wonderful greenspaces which have so much to offer, aside from being great film sets!”

In order to maintain the beauty and integrity of its greenspaces, Waverley Borough Council works closely with film crews to ensure that the natural environment is protected during filming; it also promotes the use of sustainable practices.

To explore the Waverley film map and discover more about the films and TV shows shot in the area, visit New Waverley Film Map 2025 published! .

If  you are interested in filming, crew, or a location, visit Film Waverley.

Dunsfold Park is home to the only 747 in Europe available exclusively for filming. As an operational airfield it also offers the additional benefit of permanent flying opportunities. 

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