Lights, Camera, Action in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley!

Exploring Filming Locations of Your Favourite Shows and Movies

The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is not just a place of natural beauty; it's also a star-studded landscape that has graced the screens of countless films and television shows. From the whimsical world of Sex Education to the epic battles of Star Wars, this region has provided the perfect backdrop for a wide range of stories. Let’s explore some of the most iconic filming locations and discover the magic behind the scenes!

Sex Education: A Scenic Coming-of-Age Story

The hit Netflix series Sex Education has captured hearts worldwide with its quirky characters and heartwarming storylines. The show's picturesque setting is almost a character in itself, with the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley providing the ideal backdrop for Otis and Maeve's awkward romance and the hilarious antics of Moordale Secondary School.

• Otis and Jean's House: The stunning iconic red and white chalet is perched on the banks of the River Wye in Symonds Yat East and is instantly recognisable to fans. It's here that Otis navigates the complexities of adolescence under the watchful eye of his sex therapist mother, Jean.

• Moordale Secondary School: The stunning Caerleon Campus of the University of South Wales stands in for the fictional Moordale Secondary. Its grand architecture and sprawling grounds perfectly capture the spirit of the show.

• The Bridge: The picturesque Tintern Bridge, spanning the River Wye, is a recurring location in the series. It's where Otis and Eric often cycle to school, offering amazing views of the surrounding countryside. The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley has lots of other bridges with equally as beautiful views. 

• Browns Village Stores: This charming shop in the village of Llandogo, in Monmouth, is where Maeve works part-time and serves as a hub for local gossip and teenage drama.

Puzzlewood: A Magical Forest

Puzzlewood, with its moss-covered rocks, twisted trees, and hidden pathways, is a place where fantasy and reality blur. It's no surprise that this unique and enchanting forest has captured the imaginations of filmmakers and storytellers for generations, appearing in a huge range of productions, including:

• The Lord of the Rings Connection: J.R.R. Tolkien himself is said to have found inspiration for the mystical forests of Middle-earth within Puzzlewood's ancient woodland. Its natural beauty and hidden depths give a sense of wonder and possibility, transporting visitors to a world beyond the ordinary.

• Star Wars: The Force Awakens: Puzzlewood's otherworldly atmosphere transformed it into the forest moon of Takodana, where Rey and Finn encounter BB-8 and Han Solo. The president of Lucasfilm even described it as "the most magical forest on the face of the earth," a testament to its captivating allure.

• Merlin: The magical world of Camelot came to life amidst Puzzlewood's ancient trees, serving as the backdrop for countless adventures featuring Merlin, Arthur, and the Knights of the Round Table.

• Doctor Who: This iconic sci-fi series has filmed several episodes in Puzzlewood, using its mysterious ambiance to create thrilling and suspenseful scenes.

Clearwell Caves: A Journey into the Depths

Descend into the depths of Clearwell Caves and explore the subterranean world that has captured the imaginations of filmmakers.

• Doctor Who: The caves have been featured in several Doctor Who episodes, providing a dramatic setting for encounters with alien creatures and time-traveling adventures.

• Merlin: The mythical atmosphere of the caves made them a perfect location for scenes involving magic and sorcery in the popular fantasy series.

• Britannia: The historical drama showcases the caves' natural beauty and eerie atmosphere to depict ancient rituals and hidden secrets.

More Cinematic Gems to Explore

The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley offer many more filming locations waiting to be discovered. From the historic Chepstow Castle featured in "King Arthur: Legend of the Sword" to the stunning Gloucester Cathedral showcased in Harry Potter, there's something for every film and TV enthusiast.

The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley isn’t just a picturesque destination; it’s a living testament to the power of storytelling on screen. Whether you're a fan of Sex Education, Star Wars, or any of the countless other productions filmed here, exploring these locations offers a unique opportunity to step into the worlds of your favourite characters and experience the magic firsthand. So grab your camera, follow the film and TV trail, and embark on a cinematic adventure through this enchanting region!