Northern Ireland is becoming internationally renowned as an amazing film location – From the rolling hills and forests that feature in Game of Thrones, the rural idyll used as the backdrop to 2011’s Oscar wining short film, The Shore, to our urban backdrops which have told many a story.

Here’s a reminder of some of the recent great shows, films & videos that have been filmed in Northern Ireland.

Where was Blandings filmed?

Premiering on BBC 1 Sunday 13th January at 6.30pm is a brand new series recently filmed in Fermanagh. Blandings, based on author PG Wodehouse’s hilarious accounts of the life and times of Lord Emsworth of Blanding Castle, has been filmed in and around the beautiful grounds of Crom Castle. The series stars well-known actors such as Timothy Spall, Jennifer Saunders, David Walliamsand Mark Williams, just to name a few. During the filming Jennifer Saunders tweeted with a photograph of the castle “It’s a small piece of heaven, well actually a big piece.” Why not get the full experience the magic of this sublimely beautiful place by staying in the West Wing of Crom Castle itself? Whether you are seeking creative inspiration, planning a corporate get-together, a family holiday, or reunion, the interior elegance of the West Wing, together with the majesty and serenity of its surroundings makes Crom a really unique destination.

Good Vibrations

This week was another good week for the team behind Good Vibrations – which has received 3 IFTA nominations for Best Film, Lead Actor & Best Costume. Good Vibrations which premiered in Belfast last year tells the story of Terri Hooley, Belfast’s punk godfather, and the Good Vibrations record shop. The film was shot on location in Belfast city centre, and locations include the Oh Yeah Centre, Rugby Road, Kitchener Street, The Menagerie Bar, The Tavern Bar, Linen House Hostel, Stirling Avenue, New Lodge, Oldpark Road & the Lanyon Building (Queen’s University). Good Vibrations will be out on general release on March 29^th & has already impressed some famous names including Hollywood director Ron Howard.

Ulster Unearthed

Ulster Unearthed is a new 6-part archaeology and heritage series which will reveal stories of Northern Ireland’s past and its Ulster-Scots links. Using laser technology and state-of-the-art computer imaging, a team of experts explores a variety of local sites and digs across Ulster and reveals exciting new finds. During the series the team explores a 400-year-old fort at Dunnalong on the banks of the River Foyle and travels to where a bloody battle took place near Ballymoney in 1642. Tune in to UTV on Monday night for the second instalment.

Philomena

Skyfall star Judi Dench & Steve Coogan were among the cast and crew of Stephen Frears new film ‘Philomena’ which recently completed filming in the picturesque village of Rostrevor, Co. Down. You’ll find Rostrevor village at the entrance of the majestic Mournes along the shores of Carlingford Lough – a picture perfect location for filming! Philomena is a bitter-sweet compelling narrative of human love and loss, and a heart-breaking story that ultimately celebrates life. The production is based on the true story of Irish woman Philomena Lee (Dench) who went in search of her adopted son after 50 years with the help of English journalist Martin Sixsmith (played by Coogan). Filming will also take place in Washington & London.

Global Music Stars

And the Film & TV industry aren’t the only ones buzzing about Northern Ireland. In recent years Global superstar Rhianna filmed her NO. 1 Hit ‘We found Love’ right here. Amongst the locations were T-13 Skate Park, New Lodge & that rather famous field in Co. Down. Dublin’s finest boys The Script also popped up to shoot their 5^th single ‘Before the worst’ from their debut album in the Odyssey Arena.

Time Team 

Dundrum Castle will also feature on Channel 4′s popular Time Team programme on February 24th. The excavation ran from 12-14 June 2012, Its aim was to find out what existed at this important site before the coming of the Normans.

Northern Ireland is full of picture perfect locations ideal for a winter getaway & you’ll find great value on places to stay – Why not plan a getaway and explore our magical locations in person: discovernorthernireland.com/offers/

Stay tuned to the blog for more news & info on future productions in Northern Ireland including the very popular Game of Thrones series.