Lights, Camera, Action: Your 2025 Cinema Releases Getaway Guide

2025 cinema releases are not just about watching films - they're about immersing yourself in narrative worlds that pulse with life, emotion, and extraordinary landscapes. From the cobbled streets of London to the sweeping vistas of the British countryside, the UK filming locations of 2025's most anticipated movies offer travellers a passport to inspiring experiences.

The magic of cinema has always been about transportation - not just of images, but of imagination. In 2025, the best UK cinemas invite you to experience films in spaces that are destinations in their own right. From luxury three-screen venues in central London to intimate independent theatres, each screening becomes a curated journey.

Imagine yourself stepping into the very scenes that will captivate millions: the familiar charm of Bridget Jones' London, the epic landscapes that frame Mission: Impossible's breath-taking stunts, the elegant corridors of Downton Abbey's Highclere Castle. This year, we’re unveiling set-jetting locations that are more than just backdrops - they're integral characters in storytelling, waiting to be explored…

A staple of British cinema, Bridget Jones returns with Mad About the Boy, promising laughter, romance, and a dose of relatable chaos. In this fourth instalment, released on Valentines Day, we find Bridget navigating life as a widow and single mother, grappling with dating apps, her son’s school life, and the re-emergence of a younger love interest. Directed by Michael Morris and drawing from Helen Fielding's 2013 novel, the film promises to capture the raw, comedic vulnerability that made the original series a global phenomenon, set against the backdrop of contemporary London.

The Bridget Jones London Locations Walking Tour offers the perfect chance to relive key moments from the series. Snap a picture by the front door of Bridget’s apartment, an iconic symbol of her quirky independence, and visit the church where Daniel Cleaver’s memorial scene was filmed. You’ll also explore spots like the newsagent where Bridget bumps into Mark Darcy and the offices used for his legal firm. The tour provides an intimate glimpse into the film's geography, transforming UK filming locations into a living, breathing narrative and is a delightful way to wander through London’s cinematic history.

Opt for a screening at The Cinema at Selfridges in Mayfair, with reclining seats, a state-of-the-art sound system, and intimate screens that elevate the moviegoing experience. For a truly indulgent getaway, stay at The Athenaeum in Mayfair or The Capital in Knightsbridge, placing you just steps from London’s most iconic landmarks and shopping districts.

Tom Cruise’s Ethan Hunt returns for the most daring chapter yet in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. This high-octane sequel is the culmination of an epic saga, promising jaw-dropping stunts and edge-of-your-seat drama. While much of the filming took place internationally, Buttermere Valley in Cumbria provided the breath-taking backdrop for one of Cruise’s most iconic stunts in Dead Reckoning Part One, making it a must-visit for action enthusiasts. While you’re here, pair your cinematic thrills with a stay at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, nestled in the heart of the Lake District. This boutique property combines serene landscapes with understated luxury, making it the ideal retreat after a day of exploring Mission Impossible filming locations.

Alternatively, for fans focused on London's espionage atmosphere, the Mission: Impossible Walking Tour will take you through key filming sites across the capital. Follow the trail of Ethan Hunt while marvelling at the city’s role in bringing this global franchise to life. Stay nearby at The Hari, providing urban sophistication for those who want to bookend their cinematic journey with a taste of city life.

For lovers of period drama, Downton Abbey 3 marks the grand return of the Crawley family, with a film set to deliver lavish costumes, gripping storylines, and the splendour of Edwardian England. Highclere Castle once again plays a starring role, its turrets and grounds offering the perfect setting for this historic franchise. This third film installment, directed by Simon Curtis and written by Julian Fellowes, promises to be a nuanced exploration of social change, personal evolution, and the enduring spirit of a family navigating the landscape of early 20th-century British society.

Fans looking for an immersive Downton experience should consider the exclusive Downton Abbey package offered at Glenapp Castle in Ayrshire. Begin your stay with a decadent afternoon tea, served in an opulent dining room that echoes the Crawleys’ refined lifestyle. Spend your days exploring the estate, playing croquet, and honing your etiquette skills with your personal butler - an experience that feels straight out of a Julian Fellowes script.

A visit to Highclere Castle itself is, of course, a must. Tour its grand rooms, stroll through its beautifully manicured gardens, and soak up the aristocratic charm that has defined the series. After a day steeped in history, retreat to The Vineyard in Newbury, where you can unwind with a glass of award-winning wine and gourmet dining inspired by the finest British traditions.

Adapted from Richard Osman's beloved novel, The Thursday Murder Club represents a pinnacle of 2025 cinema releases, bringing together a constellation of British acting talent that reads like a who's who of contemporary cinema. Directed by Chris Columbus and featuring an ensemble cast including Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, and David Tennant, the film promises to be a delightful blend of mystery, comedy, and social commentary. The story follows a group of elderly amateur sleuths who find themselves entangled in a real-life murder investigation, offering a fresh and witty perspective on the crime genre.

Set-jetting locations abound for fans of the film, with Shepperton Studios emerging as a primary UK filming location destination. The Pinewood Cinema, located on-site, offers an unprecedented behind-the-scenes experience. With a capacity of just 36 people, it provides an exclusive viewing environment that mirrors the intimate nature of the story itself.

The Relais Henley stands as the perfect base for those looking to explore the film's locations. Situated near to key filming sites, its riverside location and elegant design provide a contemplative backdrop for those seeking to immerse themselves in the movie-themed tours inspired by the film.

Broadway fans have eagerly awaited the cinematic conclusion to Wicked and Part Two is set to deliver all the spectacle, heart, and music one could hope for. The musical fantasy phenomenon returns on 21st November 2025, continuing the extraordinary narrative that began with the first installment in November 2024. Directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, this second and final part of the adaptation promises to be a transformative cinematic experience that delves deep into the origins of the witches of Oz. The film represents a bold reimagining of a story that has captivated audiences for decades, offering a nuanced exploration of friendship and identity.

For fans seeking to experience the Land of Oz firsthand, a visit to Seven Sisters Country Park offers stunning views of the chalk cliffs that served as the backdrop for Shiz University. Sky Studios Elstree in Hertfordshire served as the primary production hub, with the scale of the production so massive that it extended to Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden. The small village of Ivinghoe in Buckinghamshire became Munchkinland, while Belmont Nurseries in Norfolk transformed into a magical landscape with nine million tulips planted across 6.8 acres.

After a day exploring these set-jetting locations, Sopwell House provides the ideal accommodation for those seeking to fully immerse themselves in the 2025 cinema releases experience. Its proximity to filming locations and London's West End makes it a strategic base for those wanting to explore both the cinematic landscape and the broader cultural context of the film.

Though the sixth and final season of Peaky Blinders aired back in 2022, fans of Tommy Shelby and his notorious Birmingham gang have more to look forward to. Show creator Steven Knight confirmed in 2021 that the last chapter of the Peaky Blinders story will take place on the big screen, continuing the saga in a highly anticipated feature film. Starring Cillian Murphy as the iconic Tommy Shelby, the movie will also feature Barry Keoghan, adding another layer of star power to the franchise. With its gritty narrative, complex characters, and thrilling twists, the upcoming film promises to be a spectacular conclusion to one of Britain’s most beloved dramas.

For devoted fans, the Peaky Blinders Walking Tour in Liverpool offers an immersive experience to explore the series' filming locations. The tour includes over 10 key sites used in the show, such as the exterior of the Eden Club, where CI Campbell meets Grace, the Detroit Hotel from Season 5, and the cathedral where Tommy met Jack in Season 6. It’s an ideal activity for anyone wanting to relive their favourite moments while uncovering the real-life locations that brought the story to life.

The North West of England becomes more than a backdrop – it's a character in its own right, with locations like Calder Abbey in Cumbria, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct near Wrexham, and the streets of Liverpool and Manchester serving as powerful UK filming locations.

Complete your journey with a luxurious stay at Northcote, a serene retreat nestled in Lancashire. Known for its Michelin-starred cuisine and boutique charm, Northcote offers a sophisticated base from which to explore the 2025 cinema releases that have defined British storytelling. Whether you're following in Tommy Shelby’s footsteps or simply unwinding, this hotel is a standout choice for your cinematic adventure.