TV Tourism for Two: The Rise of Romantic Pilgrimages to Filming Locations Around the World

Key Takeaways

• TV tourism is on the rise, with couples planning romantic getaways to visit the real-life filming locations of their favorite shows
• From the rolling hills of Scotland featured in Outlander to the charming small towns of Virgin River and Gilmore Girls, there's a destination for every type of TV fan
• Many locations offer guided tours, themed experiences, and even the chance to stay in the same hotels or eat at the same restaurants as beloved characters
• Visiting these real-life settings allows couples to immerse themselves in the world of their favorite shows and create unforgettable memories together
• Planning a TV-inspired trip is a unique way for couples to bond over shared interests and add a touch of Hollywood magic to their love story

Introduction

Hey there, lovebirds and TV buffs! Are you ready to take your date nights to the next level? Forget dinner and a movie – why not plan a romantic getaway inspired by your favorite shows? That's right, TV tourism is the hottest new trend for couples looking to add a touch of Hollywood magic to their love story.

From the misty moors of Scotland to the sun-drenched streets of Los Angeles, more and more couples are packing their bags and jetting off to visit the real-life filming locations of their beloved series. It's a chance to step into the world of your favorite characters, recreate iconic scenes, and create unforgettable memories with your partner. So grab your remote, snuggle up on the couch, and let's explore the rise of romantic pilgrimages to TV's most swoon-worthy destinations!

Outlander: A Scottish Time-Travel Romance

First up on our TV tourism itinerary is the land of kilts, bagpipes, and rugged Highlanders – Scotland! The hit series Outlander has inspired a surge of visitors to the country's breathtaking landscapes and historic sites.

Fans of the show can visit Doune Castle, which serves as the fictional Castle Leoch, home to the MacKenzie clan. Take a stroll through the charming village of Falkland, which doubles as 1940s Inverness, and snap a photo in front of the Bruce Fountain where Jamie's ghost first appears. And of course, no Outlander pilgrimage would be complete without a visit to the standing stones at Kinloch Rannoch, which inspired the magical Craigh na Dun.

But Outlander tourism isn't just about ticking off filming locations – it's a chance for couples to immerse themselves in the romance and adventure of the series. Many tour companies offer themed experiences, like whisky tastings, Highland games, and even wedding ceremonies complete with kilts and handfasting. It's the perfect way to add a touch of time-traveling magic to your love story!

Virgin River: Small-Town Charm in British Columbia

Next up, let's head to the cozy hamlet of Virgin River – or rather, the real-life towns of Snug Cove and New Westminster in British Columbia, Canada. This heartwarming Netflix series has captured viewers' hearts with its tale of second chances and small-town romance.

While the fictional town of Virgin River may not exist, fans can still visit many of the show's most iconic locations. Take a stroll down the picturesque streets of New Westminster, which serves as the backdrop for downtown Virgin River. Grab a bite at the Watershed Grill in Brackendale, which doubles as Jack's Bar. And snap a photo in front of the Queen Anne-style house that serves as Doc Mullins' clinic.

But Virgin River tourism is about more than just Instagram-worthy photo ops. It's a chance for couples to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience the charm and slower pace of small-town living. Take a hike through the lush forests of British Columbia, cozy up in a riverside cabin, and let the romance of Virgin River work its magic on your relationship.

Gilmore Girls: A Connecticut Love Letter

For a taste of New England charm and fast-talking wit, look no further than the beloved series Gilmore Girls. While the fictional town of Stars Hollow may not be on any map, fans can still visit many of the show's real-life filming locations in Connecticut.

Start your Gilmore Girls getaway in the charming town of Washington Depot, which served as the inspiration for Stars Hollow. Grab a coffee at Marty's Café, which doubles as Luke's Diner, and browse the shelves at Hickory Stick Bookshop, a dead ringer for Stars Hollow Books. And don't forget to snap a photo in front of the town gazebo, the site of many a romantic moment between Lorelai and her suitors.

But Gilmore Girls tourism isn't just about reliving your favorite scenes – it's a chance to experience the cozy, small-town atmosphere that made the show so beloved. Stay at a quaint bed and breakfast, stroll through picturesque parks and town squares, and let the quirky charm of Stars Hollow work its magic on your relationship.

Downton Abbey: A Royal Romance in England

For a taste of aristocratic romance and grandeur, pack your bags and head to England for a Downton Abbey-inspired getaway. This beloved period drama has sparked a renewed interest in the country's stately homes and historic sites.

Start your Downton Abbey pilgrimage at Highclere Castle in Hampshire, which serves as the show's titular estate. Take a tour of the grand rooms and manicured gardens, and imagine yourself as a guest at one of the Crawleys' lavish dinner parties. Then head to the village of Bampton in Oxfordshire, which doubles as the fictional village of Downton. Visit St. Mary's Church, the site of many a wedding and christening, and grab a pint at The Grantham Arms pub.

But Downton Abbey tourism isn't just about pretending to be a member of the aristocracy – it's a chance to experience the romance and elegance of a bygone era. Stay in a historic country house hotel, take a scenic train ride through the English countryside, and let the charm of Downton work its magic on your relationship.

Game of Thrones: A Fantasy Adventure in Europe

For couples who prefer their romance with a side of dragons and swordplay, a Game of Thrones-inspired getaway is the perfect choice. This epic fantasy series has inspired fans to visit filming locations across Europe, from the sun-drenched shores of Croatia to the rugged landscapes of Iceland.

Start your Game of Thrones adventure in Dubrovnik, Croatia, which serves as the backdrop for the show's capital city of King's Landing. Take a walk along the ancient city walls, visit the Lovrijenac Fortress (aka the Red Keep), and reenact Cersei's infamous "walk of shame" through the streets of the Old Town.

Then head to Iceland to experience the otherworldly landscapes that served as the show's icy wilderness beyond the Wall. Take a dip in the geothermal waters of the Grjótagjá cave, hike through the rugged lava fields of Dimmuborgir, and visit the breathtaking Skógafoss waterfall, which appeared in Jon and Daenerys' romantic flight scene.

But Game of Thrones tourism isn't just about geeking out over filming locations – it's a chance for couples to embark on their own epic adventure. Stay in a cozy Icelandic cabin, explore the narrow streets and hidden corners of Dubrovnik, and let the romance and magic of Westeros work its spell on your relationship.

The Crown: A Royal Tour of the UK

For a taste of real-life royal romance, look no further than the hit series The Crown. This lavish Netflix drama has sparked a renewed interest in the British monarchy and the historic sites associated with their reign.

Start your Crown-inspired tour in London, where you can visit many of the show's iconic locations. Take a tour of Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the Queen, and imagine yourself as a guest at one of the show's lavish state dinners. Then head to Westminster Abbey, the site of Queen Elizabeth's coronation and many other royal weddings and funerals.

But The Crown tourism isn't limited to London – the show has filmed at historic sites across the UK, from the rugged landscapes of Scotland to the grand estates of the English countryside. Visit Balmoral Castle, the Queen's beloved summer retreat, or take a stroll through the lush gardens of Wilton House, which served as a stand-in for Buckingham Palace in the show's early seasons.

And of course, no Crown-inspired getaway would be complete without a visit to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Take a tour of the State Apartments, visit St. George's Chapel (the site of many royal weddings), and imagine yourself as a member of the royal family, if only for a day.

Bridgerton: Regency Romance in Bath

For a taste of Regency-era romance and scandal, look no further than the hit series Bridgerton. This steamy Netflix drama has inspired fans to visit the historic city of Bath, which serves as the backdrop for much of the show's action.

Start your Bridgerton-inspired getaway with a visit to the iconic Royal Crescent, a stunning example of Georgian architecture that appeared in many of the show's outdoor scenes. Then take a stroll through the city's picturesque streets and squares, imagining yourself as a member of the ton out for a promenade.

But Bridgerton tourism isn't just about admiring the architecture – it's a chance to immerse yourself in the romance and elegance of the Regency era. Take a dip in the historic Roman Baths, indulge in a traditional afternoon tea, and even attend a Regency-themed ball, complete with period costumes and live music.

And of course, no Bridgerton-inspired getaway would be complete without a visit to some of the show's other iconic filming locations. Take a tour of Wilton House, which served as the exterior of the Duke of Hastings' residence, or visit Castle Howard in Yorkshire, which stood in for the opulent interiors of Clyvedon Castle.

Poldark: A Cornish Coastal Adventure

For a taste of rugged coastal romance, pack your bags and head to Cornwall for a Poldark-inspired getaway. This beloved British drama has sparked a renewed interest in the county's stunning landscapes and historic sites.

Start your Poldark pilgrimage in the charming town of Charlestown, which serves as the backdrop for the show's bustling port scenes. Take a stroll along the historic harbor, visit the Shipwreck & Heritage Centre, and imagine yourself as a member of the show's cast of colorful characters.

Then head out to explore the breathtaking coastline that serves as the show's stunning backdrop. Visit the rugged cliffs of Botallack, where many of the show's mining scenes were filmed, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Porthcurno Beach, which doubled as the tropical paradise of Nampara Cove.

But Poldark tourism isn't just about admiring the scenery – it's a chance to immerse yourself in the romance and adventure of the series. Stay in a cozy coastal cottage, indulge in a traditional Cornish pasty, and even try your hand at tin mining (or at least visit a historic mine for a guided tour).

Peaky Blinders: A Gritty Romance in Birmingham

For a taste of gritty, 1920s-era romance, look no further than the hit series Peaky Blinders. This stylish crime drama has inspired fans to visit the historic city of Birmingham, which serves as the backdrop for much of the show's action.

Start your Peaky Blinders-inspired getaway with a visit to the Black Country Living Museum, an open-air museum that recreates the sights, sounds, and smells of the industrial West Midlands in the early 20th century. Many of the show's most iconic scenes were filmed here, including the famous "Garrison Lane" set.

Then head out to explore the city's other Peaky Blinders-related sites, like the real-life Garrison Pub (now called The Old Crown) or the historic Jewellery Quarter, where many of the show's characters lived and worked.

But Peaky Blinders tourism isn't just about visiting filming locations – it's a chance to immerse yourself in the gritty, romantic world of the show. Take a guided tour of the city's historic canals and backstreets, indulge in a traditional Birmingham balti, and even dress up in your finest 1920s-inspired attire for a night out on the town.

Conclusion

As you can see, TV tourism is the perfect way for couples to add a touch of Hollywood magic to their love story. From the rugged landscapes of Scotland to the sun-drenched streets of Croatia, these beloved shows have inspired fans to pack their bags and embark on their own romantic adventures.

But TV tourism isn't just about ticking off filming locations – it's a chance for couples to bond over their shared love of a series, to create unforgettable memories together, and to experience the romance and magic of their favorite fictional worlds.

So why not plan your own TV-inspired getaway? Whether you're a fan of historical dramas, fantasy epics, or quirky small-town comedies, there's a destination out there that's perfect for you and your partner. All you need is a sense of adventure, a love of storytelling, and a willingness to let the magic of television transport you to another world.

So grab your remote, snuggle up on the couch, and start planning your own romantic pilgrimage to the small screen. Who knows – you might just find your own happily ever after along the way!

Show	Destination	Highlights
Outlander	Scotland	Doune Castle, Kinloch Rannoch, Falkland
Virgin River	British Columbia, Canada	Snug Cove, New Westminster, Watershed Grill
Gilmore Girls	Connecticut, USA	Washington Depot, Marty's Café, town gazebo
Downton Abbey	England	Highclere Castle, Bampton village, Oxfordshire
Game of Thrones	Croatia, Iceland, Northern Ireland	Dubrovnik, Grjótagjá cave, Dimmuborgir lava fields
The Crown	United Kingdom	Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Windsor Castle
Bridgerton	Bath, England	Royal Crescent, Roman Baths, Wilton House
Poldark	Cornwall, England	Charlestown harbor, Botallack cliffs, Porthcurno Beach
Peaky Blinders	Birmingham, England	Black Country Living Museum, Jewellery Quarter, historic canals

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