Where were the Balmoral scenes in The Crown filmed? This question often arises among fans of the popular Netflix series, which meticulously reenacts the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. Balmoral Castle, the private residence of the British royal family, is a significant location in the series, yet many viewers are curious about the actual filming locations used to depict this majestic setting.
The Crown, a series that combines historical accuracy with dramatic storytelling, has been filmed in various locations across the United Kingdom. For the Balmoral scenes, the production team had to find suitable stand-ins that could capture the essence of the real Balmoral Castle. Here are some of the key locations where these scenes were filmed:
1. Highclere Castle: Often referred to as “Downton Abbey,” Highclere Castle in Hampshire, England, served as the primary stand-in for Balmoral Castle. Its grand architecture and picturesque gardens closely resemble those of Balmoral, making it an ideal choice for the series.
2. Crathie Castle: Located near Balmoral in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, Crathie Castle was used for some of the interior scenes that required a more intimate setting. The castle’s elegant rooms and halls provided the perfect backdrop for the intimate conversations and family gatherings depicted in the series.
3. Blenheim Palace: This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oxfordshire, England, was another location used to represent Balmoral. Blenheim Palace’s grandeur and historical significance made it a suitable substitute for the royal residence.
4. The Queen’s Gallery: The actual Balmoral Castle was used for some of the exterior shots, but the production team also filmed at The Queen’s Gallery in London. This gallery, which houses a collection of royal portraits and works of art, provided a more modern setting for certain scenes.
The attention to detail in The Crown’s filming locations is commendable, as the series aims to recreate the royal family’s life with as much authenticity as possible. While these stand-ins may not be the real Balmoral Castle, they certainly capture the essence of the majestic Scottish estate and contribute to the series’ success in bringing the British royal family’s story to life on screen.
