If you’ve ever watched a film or TV show and wondered where it was filmed, then you will love the trend of ‘set jetting’. Remember when everyone flocked to Croatia because of Game of Thrones? That was one of the earlier examples of set jetting.
Now, the popular HBO drama The White Lotus is driving a renewed demand for this trend. In fact, the Four Seasons Resort Maui which was featured in season one, saw a 386 per cent increase in searches for availability after the show aired. So what actually is set jetting? And how can you get involved? We’ve got everything you need to know.
What is the meaning of set jetting?
Named by Expedia as one of the top travel trends of 2024, set jetting is a type of film tourism where travellers visit locations where iconic films and TV shows were shot. It’s a great way to discover new places, and fully immerse yourself into the lives of your favourite characters.
Set jetting destinations
While Hollywood and exotic countries like Thailand might serve as the backdrop for a lot of blockbuster entertainment, England has been the choice for many directors over the years. These are the best places to try set jetting in Hampshire and Sussex, all easily accessible with Southern Rail.
Arundel
This charming market town in West Sussex, instantly makes you feel like you’ve been transported back in time - which would explain why so many period pieces have been filmed here.
Arundel Castle has been used in several films - it was a stand-in for a Belgian chateau in the 2017 film Wonder Woman and also served as Windsor Castle in the 2009 film The Young Victoria starring Emily Blunt. This Medieval castle dates all the way back to 1066, and it’s a truly spectacular sight in the centre of the town.
One feature that was filmed extensively in Arundel was Wicked Little Letters (2024). The film stars Olivia Coleman and Jessie Buckley, and is based on a true story which really happened in Sussex. Arundel has retained its historical buildings and quintessentially English character, so it made for the perfect setting for this film. Be sure to check out the High Street, Bond Street and Tarrant Street, all of which were used for filming. Arundel is a walkable town, so you’ll be able to enjoy the brick-and-flint cottages on foot.
Getting There: Southern Rail runs regular services to Arundel railway station. It's a short, scenic walk from the station to the castle and the town centre.
Brighton
Next up, vibrant and eclectic Brighton. This iconic seaside city has been a favourite filming location for decades, offering a backdrop for a range of genres. Millennials will enjoy retracing the steps of Georgia Nicolson from Noughties teen rom-com Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging (2008). Head to 15 Borough Street to find Georgia’s house, where audiences were first introduced to teen heartthrob Aaron Taylor-Johnson.
Older generations can relive the mod vibes of Quadrophenia (1979). Walking along the promenade, you can almost hear the roar of the scooters. And of course, Brighton was the only choice for both the 1948 and 2010 versions of crime thriller Brighton Rock. The Palace Pier, the seafront, and the Lanes are all instantly recognisable from these films.
Getting There: Brighton is a major hub on the Southern Rail network, with frequent services from London and other destinations. Brighton railway station is centrally located, making it easy to explore the city on foot.
Portsmouth
For musical fans (and Hugh Jackman fans), Portsmouth is a must. This seaside hub is home to the historic dockyard that served as the setting for Les Misérables (2012). That very first scene, where Jean Valjean (played by Jackman) and the convicts pull a ship into harbour, was filmed at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Head to Dock No. 9 to retrace their steps and immerse yourself in the film’s ambience and history.
You may notice that the dockyard looks a little different to how it did in the film: it was fitted with rain and wave machines to give that dramatic atmosphere, quite unlike how it feels today. While you’re visiting, be sure to check out Lord Nelson’s legendary warship HMS Victory as well as the Mary Rose exhibition, both of which can be found at the south coast dockyard.
Getting There: Southern Rail has regular services to Portsmouth Harbour station, which is right next to the historic dockyard. This makes it super convenient to visit this iconic location.