Merlin (2008)

Bradley James and Colin Morgan staring at the camera, colin is holding a sword above his shoulders

Arthur and Merlin played by Bradley James and Colin Morgan © BBC

Director: James Hawes

Writer: Julian Jones

Production Company: Shine

Kent Filming Location: Penshurst Place, Chislehurst Caves

A new prime time drama set in medieval England about the legendary wizard Merlin is due to be screened on BBC One this Autumn!

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)

Katie McGrath in a blue dress standing in front of a stone window and walls

Katie McGrath as Morgana in Merlin © BBC

Film set inside Penshurst Place - three rows of wooden tables in a large hall, filming equipment and crew surround them

Filming of Merlin at Penshurst Place © Kent Film Office

Anthony Head leaning against a table towards the camera, red and black flags hang behind him Richard Wilson standing in front of a table full of books with a window besides him, candles are in the camera in front of him

Merlin was filmed mostly in a studio with Penshurst Place one of only three locations chosen to film on location where the production company Shine visited the unique Baron’s Hall with it’s awe-inspiring height and courtly atmosphere.

Chislehurst Caves features in episode 3, series one for underground scenes where Arthur and Merlin battle the water beast.

Penshurst Place is a beautiful medieval estate with a history spanning nearly 700 years and has been seen on screen for filming projects including The Hollow Crown – Henry V (2012), The Other Boleyn Girl (2008) and The Gathering (2003).

Season 5 aired on BBC 1 on Saturday nights from February 2008.

For more information about Kent’s Filming History please visit our Movie Map.