Description

Historic manor house set within 30 acres of themed gardens, woodlands, and parkland.

The Manor House

Architecture & Aesthetic:
The Manor House is a Georgian-era building with a restrained yet elegant presence. Though not overly ornate, its red-brick exterior, classical proportions, and tranquil setting make it suitable for:

  • Historical dramas
  • Countryside retreats
  • Educational or institutional backdrops

While the house itself is modest compared to grand estates, its scale lends itself to intimate period settings or contemporary storylines requiring a stately but approachable look.

Gardens & Grounds

The location is renowned for its extensive and eclectic gardens, offering filmmakers diverse aesthetics in one location:

Themed Gardens:

  • Japanese Garden – Serene water features, stone lanterns, and structured planting
  • Italianate Garden – Symmetry, stone balustrades, and Mediterranean charm
  • Walled Garden – Enclosed, intimate spaces ideal for romantic or secretive scenes
  • Wildflower Meadows – Seasonal, naturalistic, and dreamy visuals
  • Formal Parterre – Neat, geometric hedging for historical or ceremonial scenes

Woodlands & Natural Areas:

  • Mature trees and woodland paths suit fantasy, thriller, or coming-of-age genres.
  • Water features including ponds and small lakes add atmospheric versatility.

Rural and Agricultural Spaces:

  • On-site animal enclosures, greenhouses, and horticultural buildings offer unique setups for:
    • Farming or gardening-related plots
    • Educational or institutional scenes
    • Rustic and rural British countryside settings

Architectural Variety & Extras

  • Glasshouses & Victorian-style greenhouses – Suitable for botanical or academic storylines
  • Ornamental gates, archways, and gazebos – Provide focal points or framing devices
  • Bridges and garden paths – Excellent for tracking shots and movement-based scenes
  • Statues and follies – Add timeless and artistic atmosphere

Accessibility & Production-Friendly Attributes

  • Located within the M25 – excellent access from Central London
  • Plenty of parking and hardstanding areas for unit bases
  • Experience hosting events, educational shoots, and small-scale productions
  • Flexible access to many parts of the estate, depending on the production’s needs
Map
Similar Locations

Location ref number: 3285

DT2
Dorchester