Day trip from London - “Sense and Sensibility” 1995, filming location

Welcome to the world of Jane Austen. We will be looking at a filming location from the movie “Sense and Sensibility” from 1995, starring Kate Winslet, Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Alan Rickman.

The 1995 version is so unique. I watched it at least 4 times this year and still find it calming and charming every time. The scenes are not rushed, the conversions are longer and it really makes you feel like you just stepped into the world of Jane Austen novels. I love coming back to this movie, it makes me feel cozy every time. 

Our journey begins at the footsteps of Montacute House, chosen as a location for Palmers’ country home - Cleveland. 

Montacute House has a stunning driveway that’s over a 100m long. What a view!

The house is located in south Somerset, surrounded by a beautiful garden. The manor itself was built at the end of the 16th century in late Elizabethan style. Note: the upper floors are closed and are undergoing restoration work, but you can see the ground floor. This is where a famous scene was shot of Colonel Brandon (Alan Rickman) carrying Marianne Dashwood (Kate Winslet) in his arms, after he found her exhausted and soaked in the gardens. 

🚙 It is a bit of a longer drive from London, but if you don’t mind a little road trip, it is a lovely day trip idea! By car it takes 2,5-3h from central London. 

🚌 You can also get here by public transport. Take a train from Waterloo to Yeovil Junction, then hop on a bus #81 to South Petherton (look out for The Borough stop). From there it is a 4 minute walk! 

Opening times: as the house belongs to the National Trust, I would suggest checking the opening times on their website.

There is a cafe on site with delicious scones and tea and it is open all year round.