Merlin casts his magic spell over Kent

Shine

Director: James Hawes

Writer: Julian Jones

Kent Filming Location: Penshurst Place

A new prime time drama about the legendary wizard Merlin is due to be screened on BBC One this Autumn. Partly filmed at Penshurst Place in Kent, ‘Merlin’ is set in medieval England.

Filming of Merlin at Penshurst Place © Kent Film Office

The programme sees Merlin as a young man at Uther’s Court, where magic is outlawed. Working as Arthur’s manservant, Merlin is forced to keep his magical skills secret.

The 13 part series boasts an impressive cast including Richard Wilson (One Foot in the Grave), Michelle Ryan (Bionic Woman), Anthony Head (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) and Santiago Cabrera (Heroes)

The production company Shine chose Penshurst for its unique Baron’s Hall, with it’s awe-inspiring height and courtly atmosphere. Penshurst has recently been recently seen in a spate of filming including The Other Boleyn Girl and Celebrity Masterchef.

Katie McGrath as Morgana in Merlin © BBC

Merlin was filmed mostly inside a studio and Penshurst was one of only three actual locations chosen. The drama was commissioned to fill the popular Saturday night slot vacated by Doctor Who and is expected to appeal to a wide audience.

Season 5 is currently showing on BBC 1 on Saturday nights.

Links

• For more information about the series Merlin visit http://www.bbc.co.uk/merlin/
• For more information about Penshurst Place visit http://www.penshurstplace.com/