If you’ve already binged the first episodes of Rivals season 2 on Disney+, you’ll probably have spotted some stunning locations across the Cotswolds and Bristol. From castles and country houses to harbourside streets and luxury hotels, many of the show’s most memorable scenes were filmed in real places you can visit yourself.
Here are 15 Rivals filming locations fans can explore right now.
1. Tetbury
Tetbury became the fictional village of Cotchester in the series. The production transformed the town with 1980s shop fronts, vintage signs and even Margaret Thatcher banners. Fans can explore Long Street, browse antique shops and visit the elegant St Mary’s Church seen in the show.
More info: Tetbury guide
2. Chavenage House
This beautiful Elizabethan manor doubled as The Priory, home of Declan O’Hara in the series. The interiors are packed with historic tapestries and original features, making it one of the most recognisable locations in Rivals.
More info: Chavenage House
3. Cirencester Park Polo Club
Polo is central to the world of Rivals and this prestigious club is one of England’s best-known polo venues. Visitors can watch matches or even book lessons.
4. Beaufort Polo Club
Reportedly used as a filming location for season 2, Beaufort Polo Club is one of the world’s most famous polo clubs and offers polo experiences and lessons.
5. Holland Cooper at Dunkertons Park
Fans wanting the ultimate Rutshire-inspired wardrobe can browse Holland Cooper’s flagship boutique near Cheltenham, surrounded by food vendors, cider taprooms and countryside views.
6. Berkeley Castle
The dramatic Rutshire Cup polo scenes were filmed here in episode 1 of season 2. The castle dates back to 1153 and remains home to the Berkeley family.
More info: Berkeley Castle visitor information
7. Aerospace Bristol
The iconic Concorde Alpha Foxtrot appeared in the unforgettable opening scenes of season 1 and reportedly returns in season 2. Visitors can actually step onboard the final Concorde ever to fly.
More info: Aerospace Bristol
8. Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel
This grand Victorian hotel appears in season 2 episode 1 when Declan and Maud O’Hara stay there. It sits close to Bristol Cathedral and the city’s famous harbourside.
More info: Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel
9. Bristol Harbourside
Canon’s Wharf and surrounding harbourside areas feature in the new series. It’s one of Bristol’s busiest visitor areas packed with museums, galleries, bars and boat trips.
More info: Bristol Harbourside guide
10. The Bristol Hippodrome
This historic theatre and nearby Denmark Street appear in episodes 1 and 3 of season 2. Fans can also book dedicated TV and film location tours around Bristol.
More info:
Bristol TV and Film tour
Bristol Hippodrome
11. Harbour Hotel Bristol
The glamorous British Television Awards scenes from season 1 were filmed inside the hotel’s spectacular Sansovino Hall. You can stay overnight and enjoy cocktails inside the converted bank vaults.
More info: Harbour Hotel Bristol
12. Cosy Club Bristol
This stylish Bristol restaurant featured in Dame Jilly Cooper’s cameo appearance during season 1. It’s located close to Corn Street and St Nicholas Market.
More info: Cosy Club Bristol
13. Queen Square
Fans may remember Freddie Jones driving a Sinclair C5 through Queen Square in season 1. It’s now one of Bristol’s prettiest green spaces for a walk or picnic.
14. Flight Club Bristol
After spotting the filming locations, continue the 1980s theme with darts, cocktails and retro fun at Flight Club.
15. De Vere Tortworth Court
This grand country house hotel offers garden lunches, lawn games and serious Rivals-style country house vibes.
Why Bristol Became the Perfect Home for Rivals
Bristol has become one of the UK’s biggest filming hubs thanks to The Bottle Yard Studios and its UNESCO City of Film status. Combined with the honey-coloured villages and grand estates of the Cotswolds, it creates the perfect glamorous backdrop for the world of Rivals.
Want More Rivals Inspiration?
Explore more filming inspiration here:
The first episodes of Rivals season 2 are streaming now on Disney+.
Discover more from 5 things to do today
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.