“My Lady Jane,” a charming historical comedy that gives the brief reign of Lady Jane Grey a magical twist, transports you to the enchanted realm of Tudor England. This charming young adult novel adaptation offers a new perspective on a crucial period in English history by reimagining the tale of the “Nine Days Queen” with humor, romance, and a hint of enchantment. It tells the narrative of Lady Jane Grey, who is forced into a political marriage and experiences an unexpected rise to the throne against the backdrop of 16th-century England. A further element of authenticity that immerses audiences in the heart of Tudor England is added by the film’s utilization of real historical sites, especially Hampton Court Palace.
Visiting the filming locations provides a unique opportunity for history buffs and moviegoers alike to follow in the footsteps of the characters and the genuine historical personalities they portray. Every setting, from the elaborate gardens to the opulent rooms, contributes to the overall plot.This guide will lead you through the primary location where “My Lady Jane” was filmed, emphasizing significant scenes, offering visitor details, and recommending things to do to make the most of your Tudor-themed vacation.
Hampton Court Palace, London
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to September) for the best weather and to enjoy the gardens in full bloom.
Transportation Options: Train from London Waterloo to Hampton Court station, bus routes 111, 216, 411, and R68, or car (parking available on-site).
Key Scenes: Hampton Court Palace served as a key location for many of the film’s royal court scenes. Its Tudor courtyards, grand state apartments, and sprawling gardens provided the perfect backdrop for Lady Jane’s story to unfold.
Hampton Court Palace is located in Richmond upon Thames, southwest London. It’s easily accessible by public transport or car from central London. Hampton Court Palace is one of the most significant and well-preserved Tudor palaces in England. It offers visitors a chance to experience the opulence of Tudor royal life firsthand. The palace’s rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens make it a must-visit destination for both film fans and history enthusiasts.
Hampton Court Palace was a favorite residence of Henry VIII, father of Edward VI, who preceded Lady Jane Grey as monarch. The palace’s famous maze, featured in the film, consists of half a mile of paths.
Things to Do: Explore the Tudor kitchens and Great Hall, Get lost in the famous Hampton Court Maze, Visit the Chapel Royal, where many Tudor monarchs worshipped, and Enjoy a guided tour to learn more about the palace’s history and film connections
Where to Eat: The Privy Kitchen Café within the palace for a quick bite, The Tiltyard Café for family-friendly dining, and The Mute Swan, just outside the palace gates, for a traditional pub experience
Where to Stay: The Kings Arms Hotel, a historic inn opposite the palace, The Mitre Hotel, a boutique hotel with river views, and The Carlton Mitre Hotel, another charming option near the palace
Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire
Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer for blooming gardens
Transportation: Car rental recommended, or take a train from London to nearby Berkhamsted station
Key Scenes: Forest encounters, outdoor royal gatherings, horseback riding sequences
The expansive Ashridge Estate in Hertfordshire, England served as a significant filming location for “My Lady Jane,” providing a lush, historically rich backdrop for the Tudor-era tale. This 5,000-acre National Trust property, with its diverse landscapes of ancient woodlands, rolling chalk downlands, and meadows, offered versatile settings for the film’s outdoor scenes.
Filming likely took place across various areas of the estate, taking advantage of its natural beauty and sense of timelessness. The ancient Frithsden Beeches could have provided an atmospheric setting for forest scenes, while the open meadows might have been used for larger gatherings or action sequences. The estate’s network of bridleways would have been ideal for scenes featuring characters on horseback.
Visitors can explore the same landscapes featured in the film. While the Ashridge House itself is not always open to the public, the extensive network of walking trails allows guests to immerse themselves in the same natural settings that brought “My Lady Jane” to life.
Things to Do: Take a guided tour of Ashridge House (advanced booking required), Explore the extensive network of walking and cycling trails, Visit the Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre for exhibits on local history and wildlife, and Enjoy a picnic in the picturesque Meadley Meadow
Where to Eat: The Brownlow Cafe: Located on the estate, offering light meals and refreshments, The Alford Arms: A charming country pub in nearby Frithsden, known for its locally-sourced menu
Where to Stay: Ashridge House: Luxurious on-site accommodation in a historic setting, and The Greyhound Inn: Cozy rooms in a 18th-century coaching inn, just a short drive from the estate
Herstmonceux Castle, East Sussex
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for best weather and full access to gardens
Transportation: Car rental recommended, or take a train from London to Polegate station (about 15 minutes by taxi from there)
Key Scenes: Exterior shots of Lady Jane Grey’s home, courtyard scenes, garden encounters
With its genuine medieval architecture, the lovely Herstmonceux Castle in East Sussex, England, was used as a main filming site for “My Lady Jane,” vividly capturing the Tudor era. This 15th-century moated castle, set within 300 acres of woodland, provided a stunning backdrop for the reimagining of Lady Jane Grey’s story.
Filming likely took place utilizing both the castle’s impressive exteriors and its beautifully maintained gardens. The red-brick facade and fairy-tale turrets of Herstmonceux would have lent themselves perfectly to depictions of Tudor nobility’s grand residences. The formal gardens and surrounding woodlands could have provided atmospheric settings for pivotal character interactions and plot developments.
Visitors can explore much of the castle and grounds featured in the film. Guided tours of the castle interior offer insights into Tudor-era life, while the extensive gardens allow guests to stroll through history, perhaps recognizing spots where key scenes were filmed.
Things to Do: Take a guided tour of Herstmonceux Castle (check website for seasonal availability), Explore the Elizabethan Gardens and woodland walks, Visit the Observatory Science Centre located on the castle grounds, and Attend special events like medieval jousting displays or open-air theatre performances (seasonal)
Where to Eat: The Sundial Restaurant: Located within the castle, offering locally-sourced meals with a view, and The Lamb Inn: A charming 16th-century pub in nearby Wartling, known for its traditional British fare
Where to Stay: Herstmonceux Castle Accommodation: Stay in the castle’s Bader Hall for a truly immersive experience, and The Horseshoe Inn: Comfortable rooms in a historic inn just a short drive from the castle
