Lights! Camera! Action! The three words you might hear whilst exploring this famous district. Home to Elstree, the making ground for many well-known movies and productions including; Starwars, Harry Potter and World War Z-you can expect to see a famous face or two when walking these streets.
Welcome to Hertsmere! Lights! Camera! Action! Three words you might hear whilst exploring this famous district. Home to Elstree, the birthplace of many well-known movies and productions including: Star Wars, The Crown, Harry Potter and World War Z - you may even see a famous face or two when walking these streets. Calling all TV & film fanatics! Step into your element. Although tours aren't available for Elstree studios, you can book in advance and get a front-row seat to some of the action. Join the audience in shows such as: The Chase, Strictly Come Dancing and many more! Delve into the celebrity infused history with a walk along the TV & Film trail (you'd be surprised of the famous names who have worked here!). Aside from the a-list attractions of the area, Hertsmere also boasts outdoor spaces, gardens and museums, perfect for you eager explorers.
For advice of how to spend 48 hours in the district, see our suggestions below...
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MORNING
Borehamwood High Street
Stroll along the Film & TV Heritage trail and start your adventure discovering Hertfordshire’s very own Hollywood. Spot the plaques dotted along the walk which celebrate those who've worked in the many iconic Elstree studios over the past 100 years; these include names such as Barbara Windsor, Cliff Richard and Richard Todd. The trail starts at Elstree & Borehamwood railway station, a key gateway into the town which is marked by the iconic wall sculpture to pay tribute to those who worked behind the camera. Follow the path to Elstree Studios where our next stop awaits...
Elstree Studios
Journey through cinematic history at Elstree studios, the making ground for many classic films and productions such as Star Wars, The Kings Speech, World War Z and Sherlock Holmes. Although tours aren't available, book tickets in advance to grab a front-row seat at one of the top shows on British Television today. The Voice, Strictly Come Dancing, The Chase, Celebrity Juice and many more are filmed here-the perfect way to fill your entertainment boots!
LUNCH
The Manor Elstree
It's time for lunch! When you first see The Manor Elstree, which has been built on the site of an old Tudor manor house, you could be forgiven for thinking this hotel is centuries old with its timber-framed structure. You can certainly tend to those rumbling tummies and dine like a film star at this hotel which has featured in many TV and film productions. Treat yourself to afternoon tea, made with a selection of locally sourced ingredients. If you’re visiting in the summer months then be sure to visit early for brunch and sit on the outside terrace to soak in the panoramic views of the London skyline. If a boozy-brunch sounds like your ideal start to the day then treat yourself to one of the alcoholic beverages on the menu…
AFTERNOON
Borehamwood Museum
Walk off your meal with a visit to Borehamwood Museum and discover the heritage of Hertsmere. The museum hosts a number of different events and exhibitions each year which are all open to the public. These include: the celebration for 100 years of MGM -a special exhibition designated to the production company which takes place next year and the “Good Vibrations a look back at the sixties” exhibition happening later this year. With these fascinating events taking place, there's no better time to plan your visit than right now! See the full exhibition list here...
EVENING
Warner Bros Studios
Calling all Harry Potter fanatics! Grab your Nimbus 2000 and sorting hat because it's time to fly into the wizarding world of Harry Potter. Spend your evening experiencing the magic that has created the most successful film series of all time, discover the spellbinding special effects and explore the secrets of Harry Potter. Discover Diagon Ally, The Great Hall, Gringott’s bank and many more authentic sets that have all appeared in the films. This treasure is definitely not to be missed on your stay so book in advance to avoid disappointment…
DINNER
Shenley road
Take an evening stroll through Shenley Road and tuck into the local eateries, prepare to have your taste-buds tickled as the high-street has something for everyone. Take a bite out of creamy curry, feast on tasty Thai or indulge in mouth-watering Mexican, whatever takes your foodie-fancy, rest-assured a hearty meal is only a few footsteps away.
MORNING
Bushey Rose Garden
Wake up and immerse yourself in the peaceful, picturesque surroundings of Bushey Rose Garden. Explore the tranquil grounds designed in 1913 by Thomas Mawson for artist Sir. Hubert Von Herkomer. Learn more about the history of the garden as you venture into this vibrant, formal garden with its blooming bulbs, perennials and, of course, roses - depending on the season you choose to visit. Pack a picnic and have a bite to eat in the gardens, what better way to brunch than surrounded by beautiful flowers blossoms! If picnic-style brunch isn't your thing, then head next door to Par 3 Cafe for light-lunching or hearty dining...
AFTERNOON
Bushey Museum
Only a short distance away from the garden is Bushey Museum, delve into the history of the area and see some of the paintings by Herkomer and his students which are on display here. Discover the archaeology, artefacts, documents and historical maps which all cover Bushey’s social and business heritage. The museum holds many different exhibitions and events over the year, including the "Painting the seasons - The art of colour" which displays the work of colourists including talented local artists Herkomer and Lucy Kemp Welch.
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Aldenham Country Park
Stretch your legs, unwind and finish your adventure surrounded by 175 acres of glorious greenery. With lake and woodland walks, a farm, pony rides and an adventure playground, this open landscape is a great way to let the little ones roam free. If you have an eagle eye you might be able to spot a famous bear strolling around... Yes that's right, you can even meet Winnie the Pooh in this mystical woodland. Play "Pooh Sticks" at Pooh Bridge, get inside Eeyore's gloomy place or take a selfie with Pooh bear-the perfect treat for the smaller travellers!
DINNER
St.James Restaurant
Enjoy dishes inspired by English, European and Asian cuisine at St.James Restaurant in Bushey village. Treat yourself to fine dining and bite into the eclectic tastes that this modern-British restaurant has on offer. Whether it's scrumptious steak, succulent seafood or amazing vegetarian dishes that makes your mouth water, there is something to suit everyone at this proudly independent local restaurant. What better way to end your adventure than with gastro-dining in a contemporary setting?
