House of the Dragon, the new prequel to Game of Thrones, launches on Sky Atlantic on 22 August.
Discover some of the top filming locations for this much-awaited TV series, House of the Dragon from the mind of George RR Martin, and where to stay to experience them.
UK
Discover the idyllic Cornish filming location used in the new House of the Dragon TV series – from £150 pn with Pride of Britain Hotels
Perfectly secluded and shrouded in mystical beauty, Holywell Bay, Newquay’s quieter sister beach, becomes a spectacular filming backdrop for House of the Dragon, the prequel series to the Game of Thrones. Used for its sweeping coastal shots and unrivalled cinematographic landscapes, the TV and film exposure in this breath-taking region has seen it rise to one of the UK’s top filming locations. Unearth the magical wonders of Holywell Bay for yourself with a stay at Cornwall’s Headland Hotel. Experience one of the most respected spas in Cornwall or step into a world of grandeur at the Terrace restaurant that boasts floor to ceiling windows, commanding attention, just steps from the white sands of Fistral Beach. At Headland Hotel, every nook and corner blends comfort with opulent luxury, allowing you to switch off and step into deep relaxation. Price from £150 per room per night. Call Pride of Britain Hotels on 0800 089 3929 (www.prideofbritainhotels.com).
Experience High Tide at St Michael’s Mount – West Cornwall from £290 pp with holidaycottages.co.uk
Already a much-loved British landmark, St Michael’s Mount in west Cornwall looks set to see its popularity soar further still, with the release of House of the Dragon. This striking location features in the new series as High Tide, a castle on a small island off the coast of Driftwark – seat of the House Velaryon. UK self-catering specialist holidaycottages.co.uk has several lovely properties in the area, including Chylowenna Barn (sleeps two), a pretty barn conversion in a rural location that’s perfect for couples. Enjoy sweeping views over the countryside, towards the sea and St Michael’s Mount, as well as easy access to Penzance, Land’s End, St Ives, the famous outdoor Minack Theatre and the South West Coast Path. A week’s stay costs from £290 pp (£579 total). Book at www.holidaycottages.co.uk.
Follow Prince Daemon Targaryen to the Peak District – from £170 pp with Peak Cottages
Locals spotted actor Matt Smith (who plays Prince Daemon Targaryen) in the pretty Peak District village of Castleton during filming for House of the Dragon last year, confirming the National Park’s selection as one of the many stunning locations for this much-awaited series. Enjoy your own stay in this spectacular part of the UK with local specialist Peak Cottages. For example – just a five-minute drive from Castleton, in the charming village of Hope – lies Bobbin Cottage (sleeps four), a self-catering property packed with character, including exposed beams, stone fireplace and cosy, comfortable nooks for napping after an active day exploring the many hiking routes that are right on your doorstep. A week’s stay costs from £170 pp (£678 total). Book with Peak Cottages (www.peakcottages.com).
EUROPE
Undiscovered medieval Trujillo in Extremadura, Spain – from £744 pp with Sunvil*
Put this House of the Dragon location on your bucket list and fully immerse yourself in the medieval town of Trujillo. The medieval castles are a featured location for the Game of Thrones prequel. Adorning the hilltops, surrounding Trujillo, these stunning castles are like stepping back 1000 years. Still a relatively undiscovered part of Spain, there are some postcard-worthy views and delicious authentic Spanish food to be had, such as Torta del Casar. For this medieval trip back in time, stay at the historic Parador de Trujillo in the centre of the Old Town, surrounded by narrow cobbled streets and beautiful townhouses. This peaceful parador has a relaxing, calm atmosphere, packed with 50 characterful bedrooms, a restaurant serving local produce, a cooling outdoor swimming pool, and even a chapel with vaulted ceilings. This seven-night stay is from £744 pp (based on two sharing), including B&B accommodation, flights with 20kg hold luggage (London), and transfers. Call AITO* member Sunvil on 020 8758 4722 (www.sunvil.co.uk).
Spot a dragon or two on a road trip to Monsanto, Portugal – from £67 per day with Yescapa
Head out on a road trip to discover more about House of the Dragon in Monsanto in central Portugal. Known as the city of stone this interestingly unique location, with giant boulders surrounding the town and even forming part of the houses, has become the focus of this hugely anticipated series. Perched on a hill, the famous mountain top Castle (Castelo Castelo de Monsanto) is a huge stone fortress, originally constructed in 1171 with links to the Knights Templar, it’s a very imposing location full of history. You can just imagine a few dragons flying around the ruins. Pick up Pedro’s converted van in Lisbon. Nicknamed Nori, this two-berth Volkswagen transporter is low in fuel consumption with assisted steering, it has a fully fitted kitchenette with cooker, fridge/freezer, making this the perfect home on wheels. Priced at £333 for a five-day hire, Including two insured drivers, breakdown cover and mileage (100 km per day). Contact Yescapa (www.yescapa.co.uk).
