Over the years the UK has played host to some of the most famous film franchises in the world. From the endless adventures of MI5’s James Bond to the wizarding world of Harry Potter, iconic UK locations have been selected as the backdrop for these epic tales.

Now that the UK is finally emerging from lockdown and domestic travel is allowed once more, many people will be planning their holidays, and with a surge in staycations set for 2021, one of the best ways to see the UK is on a cycling holiday. Getting out on two wheels gives you the opportunity to stay active and see some of the best sites the UK has to offer.

Our below list rounds up some of the most beautiful film destinations around the country to inspire a cycling holiday with a twist.

Alnwick

Alnwick in Northumberland and its illustrious castle have set the scene for many major films and television programs. Alnwick Castle was used in the filming of the Harry Potter films as part of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. It also became the fictitious Brancaster Castle in the final season of Downtown Abbey.

Located close to the Northumberland coast and surrounded by wild countryside, Alnwick makes for an ideal destination for a thrilling cycling holiday.

Chatsworth

Astonishing Chatsworth House in the heart of the Peak District National Park is still the seat of the Duke of Devonshire, once one of the richest landowners in the UK. Beyond its stints as a reality TV set for ‘Christmas at Chatsworth’, the estate has set the scene for Pride and Prejudice.

Located near the historic town of Bakewell, Chatsworth is perfectly positioned for a cycling tour of the scenic Peak District.

Glencoe

Deep in the Scottish Highlands, the charming and picturesque Glencoe has been used at the backdrop for some dramatic movie scenes over the years. Most notable, Glencoe was used to set the scene for the final scenes of Skyfall. (Although the house was built and burned on location in Surrey.)

The Scottish Highlands can be an arduous cycle, but well worth it for epic vistas and getting in touch with nature.

London

England’s capital has undoubtedly played host to more film sets than another location in the UK. From romantic comedies such as Love Actually and Notting hill to action films such as Mission: Impossible and family favourites like Paddington, a trip around the capital offers endless opportunities for film location sightseeing.

Cycling around London is easy thanks to Transport for London’s huge investment into cycle lanes.