By Dana Perkiss
Fans of Game of Thrones have anxiously been awaiting news of the rumored spin-off series and will be ecstatic to know that a prequel has officially started filming. For eight seasons, we get to discover the magical world of Westeros and beyond while following our favorite characters as they fight for the throne and explore the wonders beyond the Wall. Now, we get to watch the history of House Targaryen on House of the Dragon.
The series is expected to debut in 2022 and so far, filming has been primarily spotted in England at Leavesden Studios in Watford as well as in Cornwall. Now that travel restrictions have eased throughout the world, there is no better time to experience the magic of Game of Thrones by visiting the new film locations and exploring the areas.
Watford, England
A quaint town about 15 miles northwest of London, Watford is a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway, scenic walks, and movie buffs. Warner Bros.’ Leavesden Studios is not only the set location for House of the Dragon, but also where the Harry Potter series was filmed. Are you a Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin? Find out at the Harry Potter Studio Tour where fans can experience props, costumes, and more from the movie sets.
History fans will enjoy viewing the Bentley Priory Museum to learn more about the Battle of Britain, as well as the Watford Museum where you can learn about the local history of Watford.
When you’re ready to enjoy the scenery, walk through the beautiful 3.5 acres of the Cheslyn Gardens that features exotic plants, an aviary filled with birds, rock gardens, and more. The Oxhey Park is a definite park to experience; it wins the Green Flag award every year, which is an award given to accessible spaces that host safe and clean management.
Alternatively, the Rickmansworth Aquadrome is a huge nature reserve where people can enjoy hiking, canoeing, windsurfing, kayaking, and view the beautiful wildlife of swans and butterflies. No trip to Watford is complete without visiting the beauty of this aquadrome.
When you’re feeling hungry, we recommend trying the family-run Nana’s Restaurant for authentic Lebanese cuisine, or Las Iguanas for Latin American dishes and a “2FOR1” happy hour all day, every day.
Cornwall, England
On the southwestern point of England lies the county of Cornwall. Known for its sandy beaches, scenic wildlife, harbor villages like Fowey, and of course delicious Cornish pastries, there is always something to do. Members of House of the Dragon were seen in Holywell Bay, a large beach just a few miles southwest of Newquay. Visit the beach and explore the Holywell Cave when it’s low tide, throw a beach picnic, and take a romantic walk while the sunset reflects off the ocean.
The Watergate Bay promises a beautiful 2 mile long beach that’s popular for surfing, but the Gwithian Towans Beach boasts some of the best surfing in England. The beach also offers views of seals that typically can be seen hanging around the area.
For a more unique beach experience, head to St Michael’s Mount, a tidal island that you can walk to when the tide is right (or you can easily catch a boat from Marazion). Visitors beware though, legends from as far back as 495AD say that mermaids have lured in sailors, ghosts haunt the land, and Cormoran the giant used to terrorize the island. If you want a spookier thrill, tour through Bodmin Jail where you can walk through an 18th century jail which has been transformed into a cinematic thrilling experience.
Not quite spooky but just as thrilling, the Minack Theatre rests upon cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and offers a stunningly unique theater experience unlike any other. Visitors can wander the grounds and catch one of their plays - just be sure to book your tickets in advance. Speaking of cliffs, it’s worth hiking down the steep cliff to reach Tintagel Castle, a beautiful 13th century castle that’s connected to the King Arthur legends. Take the quest to find the castle and feel just like a knight at the round table!
After all the surfing, hiking, and sightseeing, you’re going to be excited to devour the amazing food Cornwall has to offer. Enjoy a classic fish and chips, test your favorite Cornish pastry, and try the award-winning Clotted Cream Ice Cream from Callestick Farm.
