The entire world is on lockdown. Travel for leisure is off the cards for the foreseeable future. But does that mean you need to let your travel bug wither away? We don’t think so.
Sooner or later, travel restrictions will be lifted. And if you’re anything like us, you’ll be desperate to start exploring again at the first opportunity. In the meantime, you can relish some of the best views of the UK on your TV screen. These films might give you some ideas on where to go as soon as travel becomes the centre of your life once again.
Notting Hill (1999)
Notting Hill is one of London’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. And its beauty is captured in all its glory in the film of the same name. Notting Hill tells the story of a man (Hugh Grant) learning how to cope with being in love with a superstar (Julia Roberts). Even if you’re not a rom-com fan, you’ll love seeing the colourful streets and markets of Notting Hill.
The Queen (2006)
The Royal Family is undoubtedly one of the UK’s main tourist draws. Who doesn’t want to have a gander at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle? Of course, most scenes were filmed on sets created to look like Royal abodes. Nevertheless, if you want to get a glimpse into high society and see some stunning shots of London, The Queen, starring Dame Hellen Mirren, is a must-watch.
Withnail and I (1987)
Many people have never heard of Withnail and I, but it’s a cult classic that frequently tops ‘Best British Comedy’ charts. The story follows two failing actors who decide to take a trip to the Lake District, England’s most mountainous region. If you’re craving the British countryside, cure your travel bug by watching Withnail and I.
Miss Potter (2006)
Before moving on from the Lake District, we need to mention Beatrix Potter, the world-famous author behind books like The Tale of Peter Rabbit. Potter spent much of her life in the Lake District, and some of the most spectacular scenery is featured in the biographic flick, Miss Potter. After you’ve witnessed the sweeping views of mountains, countryside vistas and quaint cottages, you’ll be yearning to head to the Lake District as soon as travel is back on the cards.
Calendar Girls (2003)
England’s most beautiful countryside settings aren’t limited to the Lake District. In fact, Yorkshire goes by the nickname of God’s Country thanks to its sprawling greenspaces, moors, trails and national parks. Calendar Girls tells the true story of a group of Yorkshire women who decided to pose naked to raise money for leukemia research. It’s uplifting, funny and quintessentially British. And, there’s plenty of Yorkshire to see in the movie.
Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991)
Robin Hood is one of the most famous characters in English folklore, living by the credo of ‘steal from the rich and give to the poor’. It’s a nice sentiment, but what we really love about this film is its scenes that – again – highlight the beauty of Yorkshire’s countryside, particularly Aysgarth Falls. While no scenes where shot in Nottingham, the apparent home of the infamous Robin Hood, it’s still a fantastic film that shows the English countryside in its best light.
The Theory of Everything (2014)
The UK has given birth to plenty of scientific geniuses, and The Theory of Everything pays homage to the late Stephen Hawking through the memoirs of his ex-wife, Jane Wilde Hawking. This film is a truly inspirational watch. And, as you learn about one of the best minds in recent history, you’ll see some amazing shots of Cambridge and its world-famous university.
We hope you’re staying safe indoors and enjoying these wonderful movies until the craziness is over. Stay well!
