The captivating 2020 adaptation of The Secret Garden wasn’t confined to a single studio lot. It breathed life into Frances Hodgson Burnett’s beloved story through a tapestry of breathtaking locations primarily across England and Wales, immersing viewers in a world of overgrown beauty and hidden wonders.
A Journey Through the Real-Life Secret Garden
The filmmakers skillfully blended the raw, untamed landscapes of the British countryside with the grandeur of historical estates to create a truly enchanting visual experience. While the ‘secret garden’ itself was a marvel of set design and horticultural artistry, drawing inspiration from multiple real gardens, the surrounding landscapes and majestic exteriors were very real and meticulously chosen to reflect the story’s tone and themes. The combination of practical locations and carefully crafted sets allowed the 2020 film to capture the spirit of the novel in a fresh and visually impressive way. The film employed a combination of studio work and on-location shooting to create this experience.
Key Filming Locations in England
England played a crucial role in shaping the visual narrative of The Secret Garden. Several key locations contributed to the film’s atmosphere and authenticity.
Iford Manor Gardens, Wiltshire
Iford Manor Gardens, nestled in Wiltshire, served as a major source of inspiration for the design of the Secret Garden itself. The Italianate garden, with its cascading terraces, ancient Roman artifacts, and secluded corners, provided the filmmakers with a stunning template for their cinematic creation. While not directly filmed within, its influence is palpable in the film’s visual aesthetic.
Trebah Garden, Cornwall
Trebah Garden in Cornwall, with its subtropical microclimate and dramatic coastal views, significantly contributed to the movie’s look and feel. Certain scenes were actually filmed here, and it served as heavy inspiration for the garden design.
Puzzlewood, Forest of Dean
The mysterious and ancient Puzzlewood in the Forest of Dean also saw some filming. Its moss-covered rocks and winding pathways were perfectly suited to the untamed aspects of the garden that was shown on the screen.
Yorkshire’s Newby Hall
The Newby Hall in Yorkshire has been the home to a vast amount of filming. Its beautiful location also helped bring The Secret Garden to life.
Key Filming Locations in Wales
Wales, with its rugged coastline, rolling hills, and historic castles, provided a dramatic backdrop for several important scenes in The Secret Garden.
Bodnant Garden, Conwy
Bodnant Garden in Conwy is a National Trust property renowned for its laburnum arch and stunning views of Snowdonia. This helped bring The Secret Garden to life with a rich look and feel.
Plas Brondanw Gardens
Plas Brondanw Gardens are known for their design and helped provide the rich backdrop that The Secret Garden required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About The Secret Garden Filming Locations
Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore the locations where the film was created:
FAQ 1: Was Misselthwaite Manor a real place?
No, Misselthwaite Manor, as depicted in the film, was not a single real location. The imposing exterior and interior shots were a combination of various locations and set design. Different stately homes were used for exterior shots, and interior scenes were often filmed on soundstages or in carefully dressed rooms within real stately homes.
FAQ 2: Did they film the entire movie on location?
No, the entire movie wasn’t filmed on location. While many exteriors and garden scenes were shot on location, interior scenes, especially those requiring specific sets or effects, were often filmed on soundstages. This allowed the filmmakers greater control over lighting, sound, and other technical aspects.
FAQ 3: How much of the Secret Garden was real, and how much was CGI?
The Secret Garden itself was a carefully constructed blend of real plants, set design, and visual effects (CGI). While many of the plants and flowers were real, CGI was used to enhance the garden’s lushness, create fantastical elements, and show the garden’s transformation over time.
FAQ 4: Can I visit the filming locations of The Secret Garden?
Yes, many of the locations used in the film are open to the public. Iford Manor Gardens, Trebah Garden, and Bodnant Garden are all popular tourist destinations. Puzzlewood also offers public access. It is always recommended to check opening times and admission fees before visiting.
FAQ 5: How long did the filming of The Secret Garden take?
The exact filming schedule isn’t widely publicised, but it’s common for films of this scale to take several months to film, including pre-production, principal photography, and post-production. Expect filming to take at least three to four months on location with another month or two in studio.
FAQ 6: Did the cast and crew enjoy filming in these locations?
Interviews with the cast and crew suggest they greatly enjoyed filming in the beautiful locations. The opportunity to work amidst such stunning natural landscapes was a significant highlight for many involved in the production.
FAQ 7: What was the biggest challenge in filming in the Secret Garden locations?
One of the biggest challenges was likely the unpredictable British weather. Outdoor filming is always susceptible to rain, wind, and other elements that can disrupt schedules and require adjustments to lighting and sound.
FAQ 8: How did the locations contribute to the film’s overall atmosphere?
The locations played a crucial role in creating the film’s sense of magic, mystery, and wonder. The lush gardens, imposing manor houses, and wild landscapes all contributed to the film’s overall atmosphere and helped to immerse viewers in the story’s world.
FAQ 9: Where can I find more information about visiting these locations?
Detailed information about visiting Iford Manor Gardens, Trebah Garden, Bodnant Garden, and Puzzlewood can be found on their respective websites. The National Trust website also provides information about Bodnant Garden.
FAQ 10: Were any local communities involved in the filming process?
Yes, local communities were often involved in the filming process. This includes providing accommodation for the cast and crew, supplying local services, and sometimes even acting as extras. Local resources and professionals were likely hired.
FAQ 11: Has the film inspired tourism to these locations?
Yes, The Secret Garden has likely inspired tourism to the filming locations. Films often have a significant impact on tourism, with fans eager to visit the real-life settings where their favorite stories unfolded.
FAQ 12: What other films have been filmed in these locations?
Many of the locations used in The Secret Garden have also been used in other films and television shows. For example, both Iford Manor Gardens and Bodnant Garden have featured in other productions, testament to their beauty and suitability for filming. Researching each individual site will show what other filming has taken place there.