Exclusive: The Enchanting UK Village That Brought Hamnet to Life
The critically acclaimed film Hamnet, directed by Chloé Zhao and starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, has captivated global audiences and earned eight Oscar nominations. However, the movie's breathtaking visual appeal owes much to a picturesque village in rural Herefordshire that provided the perfect historical backdrop.
Stepping into Elizabethan England
Weobley, a serene village in Herefordshire, served as the primary filming location for Hamnet. This biographical period drama, based on Maggie O'Farrell's novel, explores the tragic events that inspired William Shakespeare's Hamlet, focusing on Shakespeare's domestic life with his wife Agnes Hathaway.
Upon entering Weobley, visitors are immediately transported back in time. The village is adorned with black-and-white timber-framed buildings that date back four centuries, creating an authentic Elizabethan atmosphere. This historical authenticity is precisely why filmmakers selected Weobley over more modern locations like Stratford-upon-Avon.
A Village Transformed for Hollywood
The production of Hamnet involved a cast and crew of 300 people who temporarily transformed Weobley into a sixteenth-century setting. Production designer Fiona Crombie, along with a team of carpenters and painters, worked meticulously to conceal modern elements and enhance the village's historical charm.
Jane Keating, joint curator of Weobley Museum, described the experience as magical. "It was like a little village was built into the village," she recalled. Villagers participated as extras, and authentic props, including real cheese and manure, were used to maintain historical accuracy.
The filming process included a dramatic flood scene on the main thoroughfare, which was captured in just five seconds after hours of preparation. Once filming concluded, the crew swiftly dismantled the set, leaving Weobley to return to its tranquil state.
Exploring Hamnet-Inspired Attractions
Visit Herefordshire has developed a Through Tudor Landscapes guide that highlights key locations from the film. This guide offers a range of activities and sites for visitors to explore, allowing them to immerse themselves in the world of Hamnet.
Highlights include:
- The Gables Guest House: A late fourteenth-century property used by the production team for wardrobe. It features period dining rooms and locally made four-poster beds.
- The Wobbly Badger: A café in a fourteenth-century building that served as the home of Agnes and William in the film. It offers fresh, seasonal dishes like kimchi pancakes.
- Church of St Peter and Paul: A twelfth-century church that appears in the film as St Andrew’s Church, where Shakespeare and Agnes were married.
- The Unicorn Inn: A pub frequented by cast and crew during filming, known for its warm hospitality and traditional ambiance.
Additionally, visitors can engage in activities such as plant medicine courses with Rowan McOnegal, leather-making workshops with Sarah Williams, and falconry experiences with Wye Valley Falconry, where they can walk with Aztec the Harris Hawk through quiet woodlands.
The Lasting Impact on Weobley
Despite the brief Hollywood intrusion, Weobley remains a timeless gem. The village's rolling hills, winding rivers, and ancient orchards continue to enchant visitors, much as they did the film's location scouts. The Weobley History Society has even curated a special exhibition dedicated to Hamnet, showcasing the village's role in the film.
Hannah Richards, owner of The Wobbly Badger, expressed the villagers' mixed feelings after the crew departed. "We were all pretty bereft when they left. It was a bit weird no longer being chaperoned through the village," she said.
A Destination for History and Culture Enthusiasts
Weobley offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to explore Britain's hidden treasures. The Black and White Trail, a 5.5-mile circular walk, provides stunning views of Herefordshire's landscapes, though visitors should be prepared for muddy conditions after rain.
From its historical architecture to its vibrant community, Weobley captures the essence of Elizabethan England, allowing visitors to experience the magic that made Hamnet an Oscar-nominated masterpiece. Whether you're a film enthusiast or a history buff, this charming village promises an unforgettable journey back in time.
