28 Years Later: Explore Filming Locations in North East England

Begin your journey at Holy Island, one of the most atmospheric locations used in the film. Cut off twice a day by the tide, it’s easy to see why filmmakers chose this remote, spiritual setting. Its windswept shores and centuries-old ruins give a cinematic sense of solitude and ancient resilience.

For a truly immersive experience, book a tour with Hidden Heritage and step back in time with their guided Pilgrims’ Path walk across the sands. This atmospheric journey, best experienced at low tide, follows the ancient route once travelled by Saxon Kings and Celtic Priests. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating stories dating back to Roman times, while the calls of grey seals and optional barefoot walking add to the mystical ambience. After arriving on the island, enjoy some time to explore before returning comfortably by vehicle.

Top Tip:
Check the safe crossing times before you go. The tide transforms the experience.

Not far from Holy Island, this secluded sandstone overhang is linked to the journey of Saint Cuthbert’s remains. Surrounded by pine forest and peace, it provides a dramatically spiritual backdrop and a strong sense of mystery.

Travel inland to explore the market town of Rothbury and the surrounding uplands of Knowesgate. These areas were used for rural village scenes and sweeping landscapes, bringing an eerie quality to the film. It’s a place where quiet countryside meets cinematic suspense.

For a more adventurous way to explore Northumberland, consider hiring an award-winning Land Rover Defender camper from Overland Adventures. Based locally, their fully equipped vehicle, 'Armstrong,' carries and sleeps up to five and comes with luxury roof tents, premium camping gear, and all the comforts you need for a film-inspired road trip across wild Northumberland. Just turn up, turn the key, and bring a sense of adventure.

Nearby:
Cragside National Trust estate and walking trails through Coquetdale

This is one of the most iconic spots in the region. Sycamore Gap was featured poignantly in the film and is a recognisable landmark along Hadrian’s Wall. Though the tree was sadly damaged in 2023, the surrounding landscape remains a powerful visual reminder of the area's cinematic and historical importance.

To delve deeper into the history of the area, join Ancient Britain on a half-day tour starting at Cawfields. You'll walk a central stretch of Hadrian’s Wall before visiting Vindolanda, one of the best-preserved Roman forts in Britain. With a costumed guide portraying a Roman soldier or Celtic warrior, you’ll gain fascinating insights into life on the edge of empire while soaking in sweeping views of Northumberland and the North Pennines.

Kielder’s sweeping forest and vast reservoir offered the filmmakers a haunting and remote backdrop. It’s the largest man-made lake in the UK, surrounded by dark skies and deep silence, creating a perfect atmosphere of isolation and suspense.

Things to do:
Visit Kielder Observatory for incredible stargazing, or cycle the forest trails around the water’s edge.

End your cinematic journey in Consett, perched on the edge of the Durham Dales. Once a major steel town, Consett’s open moorland, dramatic skies and gritty textures added visual weight and emotional depth to scenes in 28 Years Later. It’s a lesser-known gem for those wanting to go off the beaten track.

Nearby:
Derwent Reservoir and the Coast-to-Coast cycle route offer more ways to explore the wild.