Frankenstein – Burghley House

Burghley House, located near Stamford in Lincolnshire, England, served as a primary filming location for Guillermo del Toro’s 2025 adaptation of Frankenstein.This magnificent 16th-century estate provided multiple interior spaces that were transformed into key settings within the film’s narrative. The production utilized several of the house’s most spectacular State Rooms during filming in September 2024, capturing the atmospheric grandeur that del Toro sought for his reimagining of Mary Shelley’s classic tale. Burghley’s extensive collection of ornate art, centuries-old woodwork, and gilded interiors made it an ideal choice for depicting the opulent world of the film’s characters.

The Scene

In Netflix’s Frankenstein, multiple scenes utilize Burghley House’s distinctive interiors. Victor Frankenstein’s bedroom is depicted as the Bow Room, complete with 17th-century murals adorning the ceiling and featuring a statue of the Guardian Angel as a prominent prop. The Great Hall, a grand space dating to the 1500s, serves as Henrich Harlander’s dining room, where a pivotal dinner scene unfolds between Victor and Harlander’s niece, Elizabeth. Additionally, a brief corridor scene showcasing ornate decor utilizes Burghley’s richly painted “Heaven Room” as a backdrop. The Old Kitchen also contributed to the film’s aesthetic. These locations collectively establish the wealthy, aristocratic setting that contrasts with Victor’s darker pursuits.

The Real Filming Location

Burghley House is an Elizabethan prodigy house constructed between 1555 and 1587 by William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I. The estate spans 5,870 hectares and features sweeping Capability Brown parkland, extensive stables, an orangery, and two distinct gardens—one displaying sculptures and the other containing a moss house and mirrored maze. The house’s exterior is constructed from shelly limestone quarried from nearby land, presenting an imposing facade that has attracted filmmakers for decades. The interior boasts centuries-old murals, gilded furniture, and paintings that required minimal set dressing for the production. Burghley’s architectural complexity and historical authenticity provided an authentic backdrop for del Toro’s vision without extensive modifications.

Why This Location Was Chosen

Del Toro selected Burghley House for its architectural splendor and atmospheric qualities that aligned with his creative vision for Frankenstein.The house’s 16th-century charm and ornate interiors naturally complemented the film’s period aesthetic and the wealth and sophistication of the characters inhabiting these spaces. Burghley’s established reputation as “one of England’s most sought-after filming locations” made it an obvious choice, having previously featured in productions including The Crown, The Flash, and Pride and Prejudice. The production team recognized that the house’s existing artistic elements—particularly the ceiling murals and gilded decorations—would enhance the visual storytelling without requiring extensive artificial set construction. The property’s ability to accommodate large-scale film crews while preserving its historical integrity made it practically ideal for del Toro’s ambitious production.

Visiting the Location

Burghley House welcomes visitors year-round, allowing fans of the film to experience the actual rooms featured in Frankenstein. Visitors can explore the Great Hall, Bow Room, and other State Rooms, observing firsthand the 17th-century murals, ornate woodwork, and gilded details that appear on screen. The property’s extensive grounds feature Capability Brown parkland and the two distinctive gardens, offering a complete experience of this historic estate. According to the search results, the house was closed during September 2024 filming but has since reopened to the public. The estate combines its historical significance with its cinematic heritage, making it an attractive destination for both history enthusiasts and film location scouts. Visitors are encouraged to discover the architectural artistry that impressed both del Toro and audiences worldwide.