The Essex Serpent: Filming Locations Itinerary

Due to our wide variety of locations, from coastal towns to rural villages and bustling cities, Essex has become a popular filming location for hit TV shows and films. One of the most notable being ‘The Essex Serpent’ – a popular Apple TV mini-series released in 2022. If you’re a fan of this romantic period drama, read on for a full itinerary of filming locations to visit on your set-jetting trip to Essex!

Where to Stay

With many of the scenes taking place in the Maldon district, we highly recommend staying in this area for your visit. If you’re looking for a peaceful, self-catered getaway in the countryside, then Curry Farm is ideal for you! This two-bedroom accommodation is set within 65 acres of private nature reserve and beautifully landscaped gardens, located on the outskirts of Bradwell-on-Sea. For all-inclusive bliss, activities, and great entertainment to fill your evenings, book a stay at Potters Resort Five Lakes. Or, if you’re in the mood for something a little bit more unique, and love being by the water, book a few nights stay on the Sailing Barge ‘Reminder’, moored on the Maldon Quay.

Day One

During your first full day of your Essex Serpent inspired stay, we recommend visiting the key filming locations in Maldon. This charming market town was the main backdrop to the series. Head to the high street and walk where both Tom Hiddleston and Claire Danes were filmed. Stop by Moot Hall, a 15th-century courthouse now serving as both a museum and a wedding venue. This unique building was featured in dramatic rooftop scenes overlooking Maldon and the Blackwater Estuary.

After your visit to the high street, where you will find many wonderful cafes and tearooms for a spot of breakfast or coffee, head for a stroll through Promenade Park – scenes were shot both within the park and near the Hythe Quay, with large marquees being erected in order to facilitate filming. Before heading to your next location, we highly recommend stopping by the Tiptree Tearoom at The Lock for a spot of lunch!

Once you have explored filming spots in Maldon, head to the beautiful coastal village of Tollesbury, just a short 20-minute drive away. Head down to the marina, where you can see for yourself the iconic, bright red lightship and stunning saltmarshes that were used as scenic backdrops in the show.

Day Two

For the second day during your visit, head to Alresford Creek and Brightlingsea, both of which served as the setting for the fictional village of Aldwinter in ‘The Essex Serpent’. Either drive to Brightlingsea from Alresford Creek, or take the picturesque path along the river from Wivenhoe. Once in Brightlingsea, visit the wonderful Brightlingsea Harbour, also used as a filming location in the show! From here, you can hop on a ferry boat to Mersea Island…

On Mersea Island, you’ll find Cudmore Grove Country Park. Here, Hiddleston and Danes filmed dramatic scenes on top of the cliffs (also used in the TV series ‘Liar’), bringing ‘The Essex Serpent’ to life against the breathtaking coastal backdrop. Visit the country park in East Mersea to relive the TV magic - explore fossil-rich shorelines, stroll along the seawall, or enjoy a seaside picnic! Or, for dinner and drinks by the sea, visit The Victory pub in West Mersea and explore the other side of this charming island.

Day Three

Before you depart on the final day of your visit, stop by the peaceful village of North Fambridge, just over 15 minutes from Maldon town. Set along the peaceful River Crouch, this picturesque village offers scenic walks, estuary views, and the atmospheric beauty that brought the story’s fictional world to life. Perfect for a tranquil end to your screen-inspired exploring. Be sure to visit the stunning Blue House Farm nature reserve!

Visit the real star of the show this summer! For more on TV shows and movies filmed in Essex, click here. Be sure to tag us in your pics on socials and use #StarringEssex #StarringGB. Explore filming locations across Essex using our movie map!