York and North York Moors Spotlighted in UK Promotional Campaign at King’s Cross, Showcasing Iconic Film Locations to Inspire Travelers

Published on December 5, 2025

In a bid to increase visibility and attract visitors, Visit York, in collaboration with the North York Moors National Park, has launched a highly impactful promotional campaign at London’s King’s Cross underground station. The campaign, titled ‘Starring York and North York Moors,’ brings the region’s rich cinematic history to the forefront, showcasing iconic film and TV locations that have captured the imaginations of audiences worldwide. This campaign is not just a celebration of York’s cinematic heritage, but also a call to travelers to experience these stunning locations in person.

A Cinematic Journey Through York and the North York Moors

Running from December 1 to 14, 2025, the campaign offers a glimpse into the magical worlds created by some of the UK’s most beloved films and TV shows. The displays at King’s Cross feature captivating visuals of York’s medieval streets, historic landmarks, and the breathtaking moorland scenery of the North York Moors. These iconic scenes have long been part of the cinematic landscape, making York and the North York Moors National Park must-visit destinations for film tourism enthusiasts.

The ‘Starring York and North York Moors’ campaign invites travelers to explore the real-world locations that inspired their favorite screen moments. Through immersive itineraries, the campaign encourages visitors to follow the footsteps of famous characters in some of the world’s most scenic and historically rich settings.

Iconic Film Locations in York

York’s historic streets and landmarks have served as the backdrop for numerous iconic film and TV productions. Castle Howard, for instance, has been immortalized in the classic Brideshead Revisited and more recently in Netflix’s Bridgerton. The grand architecture and beautiful grounds of Castle Howard continue to captivate audiences and are a must-see for visitors interested in experiencing the elegance of this stunning location.

York Minster, one of the city’s most famous landmarks, also played a key role in film history, standing in for Westminster Abbey in the TV series Victoria and appearing in the Oscar-winning Elizabeth. For Harry Potter fans, The Shambles, York’s picturesque medieval street, is said to have inspired the design of Diagon Alley, giving visitors a chance to step into the world of magic.

In addition to York, the North York Moors National Park is home to cinematic gems. Whitby Abbey, perched dramatically on the edge of the coast, inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Goathland Station and Pickering Station have both appeared in the Harry Potter films, as well as in Downton Abbey: The Movie. These locations are renowned for their cinematic charm and offer visitors a chance to experience the magic behind the scenes.

York and the North York Moors: A Haven for Film Tourism

As film tourism continues to grow globally, locations like York and the North York Moors are becoming increasingly popular with travelers who seek to visit the real-life settings of their favorite scenes. The rise of streaming platforms has brought fresh attention to these cinematic destinations, allowing fans to experience the magic in person. As more people travel to explore film-related sites, local economies benefit, and the destinations themselves are placed firmly on the map as top travel hotspots.

York’s rich history and cinematic heritage make it an attractive destination for travelers seeking more than just a typical holiday. The city’s film connections offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a destination that has brought countless stories to life, from epic romances to thrilling mysteries. The ‘Starring York and North York Moors’ campaign aims to tap into this growing interest, enticing both domestic and international visitors to explore the magical landscapes that have appeared on the big screen.

A Multifaceted Campaign with Wide Reach

The displays at King’s Cross are only the beginning of the campaign, which has extended its reach through digital platforms. A feature video, social media presence, and a dedicated hub page on the Visit York website provide further inspiration for travelers looking to explore York and the North York Moors. The website offers detailed itineraries to guide visitors to key film locations, allowing them to connect more deeply with the stories and characters that have become a part of cinematic history.

King’s Cross, one of the busiest travel hubs in the UK, is the perfect location for this campaign. Millions of people pass through this station each week, making it an ideal spot to showcase York’s beauty, culture, and unique connection to the film industry. By placing York and the North York Moors in front of such a large audience, the campaign ensures that the region’s cinematic charm captures the attention of travelers from around the world.

Collaborative Efforts to Inspire New Visitors

Sarah Loftus, Managing Director of Make It York, emphasized that the campaign is focused on increasing visibility and inspiring potential visitors. The partnership with the North York Moors National Park allows the campaign to reach a wider audience and showcase the region’s natural beauty alongside its cinematic heritage. With millions passing through King’s Cross every day, the campaign offers a unique opportunity to introduce York to a diverse and engaged audience.

Catriona McLees, Head of Marketing & Communications at North Yorkshire Moors National Park, expressed her excitement about the campaign and the chance to highlight the park’s dramatic landscapes. The North York Moors have long captivated both filmmakers and visitors, and the collaboration with Visit York is an exciting way to share this beauty with new audiences. The campaign aims to inspire more people to visit the stunning landscapes where these unforgettable stories were brought to life.

York: A Place Where Stories Come to Life

York’s cinematic appeal continues to grow, offering travelers the chance to step into the pages of history and film. The ‘Starring York and North York Moors’ campaign serves as a welcoming invitation to explore the region’s famous film locations, from the winding medieval lanes of York to the breathtaking vistas of the North York Moors. Visitors can immerse themselves in the locations that inspired their favorite films and discover the charm that has made York one of the UK’s top cultural destinations.

As the popularity of film tourism rises, York remains well-positioned to attract travelers seeking a deeper connection to the places that have shaped the stories they love. With its rich film heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene, York is a destination that promises to captivate visitors for years to come.

[Image Credit: Make it York]