Where Is Father Brown Filmed? - TQS Magazine (2024)

If you’re a fan of the charming BBC detective series, you might be curious where is Father Brown filmed.

The show, based on the short stories by G.K. Chesterton, takes place in the fictional village of Kembleford, set in the idyllic Cotswolds, a region in Gloucestershire known for its rolling hills and quaint villages.

While Kembleford itself doesn’t exist on any map, the series brings the village to life by filming in various locations across the Cotswolds and surrounding areas.

The heart of the series, the church of St Mary’s where Father Brown tends to his flock, is actually the Church of St Peter and St Paul, located in the village of Blockley, near Moreton-in-Marsh.

This village and its surroundings provide the show with its authentic 1950s English countryside vibe, making it a central character in its own right.

As you follow the sleuthing adventures of Father Brown, the scenes you see are woven together from multiple real-world locations, including towns in Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire.

These locations are chosen for their untouched historic essence, allowing you to be transported back in time while Father Brown unravels the latest conundrum.

Where Is Father Brown Filmed?

Your favorite mystery series,Father Brown, takes you back in time to the picturesque English countryside.

The show primarily unfolds in the beauty of theCotswolds and Gloucestershire.

If you’ve been charmed by the external scenes, they are mostly shot in these serene locales, known for their rolling hills and historic villages.

• The Church of St. Peter and St. Paulin the quaint village ofBlockleyfeatures predominantly in the series.
  • This beautiful church is presented asSt. Mary’s, the main character Father Brown’s parish.
  • The charming exteriors and the vicarage that is transformed into Father Brown’s residence are all genuine aspects of Blockley.
  • This place stands in for the fictional village ofKembleford, where the series sets its roots.

• Sudeley Castlehas also hosted the show, providing awe-inspiring backdrops that perfectly suit the period setting ofFather Brown.
  • The castle’sSt. Mary’s Churchplayed a central role in an episode from the first series.
  • While the series may suggest a bygone era, the actual filming locations are very much real and accessible.
  • These spots are nestled within theEnglandlandscape, adding authenticity and charm to the beloved detective series.

Whether you plan a visit or simply enjoy from your screen, these destinations contribute to the very essence ofFather Brown.

Cotswold Villages

The Cotswolds are a picturesque backdrop for the TV seriesFather Brown, particularly charming villages like Blockley and the fictional Kembleford that bring the show to life.

Blockley Church

St. Mary’s Churchat Sudeley Castle andSt. Peter and St Paul’s Churchin Blockley serve significant roles in the series.

Interestingly, St. Peter and St Paul’s doubles asSt. Mary’s Catholic Churchin the fictional town of Kembleford. Its grand medieval architecture and the serene ambiance set the perfect scene for the show’s many mysteries.

Kembleford Village

You’ll find the heart ofFather Brownin the fictionalKembleford, where the majority of the external scenes are shot.

In reality, the Cotswold village of Blockley is transformed into this quaint setting.

The golden Cotswold stone and the peaceful countryside are staples in the series that give Kembleford its authentic, timeless feel.

Historic Buildings And Estates

When exploring the filming locations ofFather Brown, you’ll find yourself whisked away to captivating historic buildings and grand estates, each brimming with character and storytelling potential.

• Kirtlington Park: This majestic country house is located in Kidlington, Oxfordshire.
  • Built in the 18th century, this Grade I listed Palladian house boasts stunning gardens and expansive land, totaling over 3,000 acres.
  • It’s not only a filming location but also serves as a sought-after wedding venue.

• Blockley: In the heart of the Cotswolds lies Blockley, the primary setting for the series.
  • This quintessentially English village radiates charm with its golden stone buildings and lush greenery, transporting you to a bygone era perfect for the series’ aesthetic.
  • These locales provide more than just backdrops; they are pivotal to the storytelling ofFather Brown, setting the scene for mystery and drama amidst the beauty of England’s historical tapestry.

If you find yourself yearning to step into a world that combines rustic elegance with intrigue, these filming locations are a must-visit.

Other Key Locations

Aside from the charming Church of St Peter and St Paul in Blockley that doubles as St Mary’s in the series,Father Brownhas featured a variety of scenic spots throughout Gloucestershire.

• Guiting Power:This picturesque village has its own cameo moments in the series.
  • Its classic Cotswold architecture provides an authentic backdrop that perfectly captures the essence of the English countryside.

• Upper Slaughter:Boasting a name that belies its serene environment, this area adds to the quaint charm with its traditional limestone houses and idyllic settings.

• Moreton-in-Marsh:An old hospital here has been used for filming, providing a historical setting that resonates with the show’s post-war time period.

• Sudeley Castle:This historic location offers grandeur and a sense of the past that’s pivotal for creatingFather Brown’satmospheric setting.

• Winchcombe Railway Station:A piece of living history, this station serves as a cinematic portal to the bygone era of steam trains and the early 20th century.

Your journey through the heart of Gloucestershire is encapsulated by these locations, offering you a visual feast that brings to life the intriguing tales ofFather Brown.

Each site contributes its unique texture to the series, making you feel as though you’ve stepped into the post-war English countryside.

Production Insights

Your curiosity about the filming locations for theFather Brownseries is well-placed.

The series is predominantly filmed in the picturesqueCotswoldsand parts ofGloucestershire.

Here’s what you might find interesting:

• Blockley, Gloucestershire: The heart ofFather Brown, the Church of St Peter and St Paul in Blockley, serves as the fictional St Mary’s.
  • It’s the central landscape where much of the series’ church-related scenes unfold.

• Kembleford: Although a fictional village, production mirrors the essence of Kembleford with various Cotswold locations.
  • This provides the series with its quintessentially English rural backdrop.

If you’re looking to capture the vibe ofFather Brown, these places offer a glimpse into the show’s serene production environment.

Be aware that these locations are real-world spots, and your respect for their tranquility and upkeep is greatly appreciated.

Enjoyable series such asFather Brownand its spin-off transport you into their world, and by visiting or learning more about these locations, you’re getting a behind-the-scenes look at what makes the series so charming and visually engaging.

Key Takeaways

• Filming Locations:Your favorite mystery series,Father Brown, is primarily filmed in theCotswoldsandGloucestershire.
  • The picturesque villages provide a perfect backdrop for the sleuthing adventures.

• St. Mary’s Church:The Church of St Peter and St Paul, located inBlockley, Gloucestershire, is featured prominently.
  • To you, it’s known as St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in the fictional town of Kembleford.

• Presbytery Residence:The charming vicarage near the church is transformed into the residence of Father Brown himself.
  • This quaint presbytery is as intriguing as the character’s detective work.

• GWR Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway:This historic railway adds to the show’s charm and has been used for several scenes.
  • Stations like Winchcombe and Cheltenham Racecourse might feel familiar now.

• Scenic Slaughter:The village of Upper Slaughter also makes the perfect scene for episodes, contributing to that authentic English countryside feel you love.