Where did they film Balmoral in The Crown?
The Crown, a popular Netflix series that chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, has captivated audiences with its stunning visuals and meticulous attention to detail. One of the most iconic locations featured in the series is Balmoral Castle, the private residence of the British royal family. But where exactly did the producers of The Crown film Balmoral, and how did they recreate the grandeur of this historic site on screen? Let’s delve into the secrets behind the filming locations and the challenges faced by the production team.
Real vs. Fake: The Challenges of Filming Balmoral
Balmoral Castle, nestled in the Scottish Highlands, is one of the most recognizable symbols of the British monarchy. However, filming at the actual castle was not an option for The Crown. The reasons for this were twofold: the cost of filming at such a prestigious location and the need to control the narrative. To overcome these challenges, the production team turned to a combination of real and recreated locations.
Recreating Balmoral: The Production Team’s Masterstroke
The producers of The Crown decided to recreate Balmoral on a soundstage in the United Kingdom. This allowed them to have complete control over the setting and ensure that the scenes were as authentic as possible. The soundstage was designed to mimic the grandeur and elegance of Balmoral Castle, with intricate details and period-appropriate decor.
Key Filming Locations
Several key locations were used to recreate Balmoral for The Crown. One of the most notable is the Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire, England. Elstree Studios has a long history of film production and was chosen for its expansive facilities and ability to accommodate the scale of the project. The team transformed Studio 2 into a stunning replica of Balmoral’s grand ballroom, complete with chandeliers, tapestries, and intricate woodwork.
Another significant location was the historic Hatfield House in Hertfordshire. Hatfield House served as the backdrop for several scenes set at Balmoral, including the famous wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer. The house’s opulent architecture and beautiful gardens provided the perfect setting for the series’ most memorable moments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the question of where they filmed Balmoral in The Crown can be answered by a combination of real and recreated locations. The production team’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to authenticity resulted in a stunning portrayal of one of the most iconic castles in the world. While audiences may never step foot inside the actual Balmoral Castle, The Crown’s recreation allows us to experience the grandeur and elegance of this historic site through the eyes of the British royal family.
