Ridley Scott’s ambitious epic “Napoleon” brings the remarkable story of one of history’s most influential figures to the big screen with sweeping grandeur. Starring Joaquin Phoenix as the French military genius and Emperor, the film takes viewers on an extraordinary journey through Napoleon Bonaparte’s rise to power, legendary battles, and complex personal relationships.
But here’s where things get fascinating for travellers and film enthusiasts alike: while the story spans Europe from Paris to Moscow, much of this Napoleonic adventure was filmed in England, Malta and Morocco. This creates a unique opportunity for curious explorers to walk in the footsteps of both the historical Napoleon and the cinematic production that brought his story to life.
In this ConnollyCove guide, we’ll take you beyond the screen to explore the remarkable filming locations that helped bring this historical epic to life. We’ll explore why specific locations were chosen, delve into their rich histories, and provide practical travel advice for visiting these cinematic landmarks. Whether you’re a history buff, a film enthusiast, or simply looking for unique travel experiences, these Napoleon filming locations offer a compelling blend of cinema and heritage waiting to be explored.
Table of Contents
Why England & Malta? The Art of Cinematic Deception in “Napoleon”
The decision to film a story about France’s most famous military leader primarily in England might initially seem surprising. After all, France lacked Napoleonic landmarks and stunning architecture from that period. However, the logistics of modern filmmaking, combined with specific architectural and practical requirements, made England and Malta ideal stand-ins for various European locations.
England’s wealth of neoclassical and Palladian-style architecture from the 18th and early 19th centuries provided perfect backdrops for French imperial settings. Many English stately homes and cathedrals feature architectural styles contemporary with Napoleon’s era, allowing for convincing representations of French palaces and government buildings. The English countryside, with its varied landscapes from rolling hills to ancient woodlands, offered versatile settings for intimate scenes and epic battle recreations.
With its imposing stone fortifications and Mediterranean light, Malta provided the perfect setting for southern European sequences. The island’s historic fortresses, built by the Knights of St John, offered ready-made backdrops that would have required extensive construction work to recreate elsewhere.
When scouting locations for historical films, we look beyond the obvious choices to find settings that can authentically represent the period while offering the practical advantages needed for modern filming,” notes Ciaran Connolly, founder of ConnollyCove. “What’s fascinating about the Napoleon production is how brilliantly places like England’s stately homes and Malta’s fortresses were transformed to tell a distinctly French story.”
This cinematic geography creates a fascinating opportunity for travellers to experience these locations with a dual perspective – appreciating their historical significance and role in bringing Napoleon’s story to the screen.
UK Locations: The Unlikely Heart of Napoleon’s Empire
England, Napoleon’s greatest adversary, ironically became the primary canvas for recreating his imperial world on film. From magnificent stately homes to ancient cathedrals, these English locations played crucial roles in bringing the Napoleonic era to life.
Lincoln Cathedral: Notre Dame Reimagined
What it depicted: Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris during Napoleon’s coronation as Emperor
Lincoln Cathedral stood in for Paris’s Notre Dame during one of the film’s most pivotal scenes – Napoleon’s coronation as Emperor in 1804. The magnificent Early English Gothic architecture of Lincoln Cathedral, with its soaring ceilings and dramatic arches, provided the perfect setting for this moment of imperial grandeur.
The history behind the location: Lincoln Cathedral, completed in the 13th century, was once considered the tallest building in the world. Its rich history includes hosting parliamentary sessions during the Middle Ages and surviving various historical conflicts. The cathedral’s architectural grandeur made it an ideal stand-in for Notre Dame, which was unavailable for filming due to reconstruction work following the 2019 fire.
Visitor information:
- Location: Minster Yard, Lincoln LN2 1px
- Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 7:30 am-6 pm, Sunday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Admission: Cathedral floor visit: Adults £9, Concessions £7.20, Children free
- Getting there: Lincoln is approximately 2 hours by train from London King’s Cross with a change at Newark. By car, it’s about 3 hours from London via the A1.
- Nearby attractions: Lincoln Castle, Medieval Bishops’ Palace, Steep Hill (historic street with shops and restaurants)
Travel tip: When visiting Lincoln Cathedral, look for the famous Lincoln Imp, carved in stone – a small figure that has become a city symbol. The surrounding cobbled streets offer excellent photo opportunities and charming tea shops perfect for a post-exploration break.
Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire: From English Duke to French Emperor
What it depicted: Various French imperial palaces, including Fontainebleau, the Tuileries Palace, and parts of Josephine’s Château de Malmaison
Blenheim Palace, with its sprawling grounds and magnificent Baroque architecture, was a primary filming location, representing several French imperial residences. Its grand facade, ornate interiors, and formal gardens provided the perfect backdrop for scenes depicting Napoleon’s rise to power and life as Emperor.
The history behind the location: The irony of using Blenheim Palace is delicious for history buffs – it was built as a gift to the 1st Duke of Marlborough following his victory against French forces at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704. For the film, this monument to English triumph over France became the heart of French imperial power. It’s also the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, making the historical layers even richer.
Visitor information:
- Location: Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1pp
- Opening hours: Palace 10:30 am-4:30 pm, Gardens 9 am-6 pm (seasonal variations apply)
- Admission: Palace, Park & Gardens: Adults £33-38, Children £18-20 (prices vary by season)
- Getting there: From London, direct trains run to Oxford, followed by the S3 bus to Woodstock. By car, it’s approximately 90 minutes from London via the M40.
- Nearby attractions: The charming town of Woodstock, Oxford University (20 minutes away), Cotswolds villages
Travel tip: Allow at least 4-5 hours to properly explore Blenheim Palace and its extensive grounds. The formal gardens are stunning in late spring and summer, while the palace interiors are awe-inspiring during winter when special displays are often featured.
Bourne Wood, Surrey: Battlefields and Forests
What it depicted: Battle of Austerlitz and forest scenes representing Eastern Europe
Bourne Wood’s versatile landscape provided the backdrop for some of Napoleon’s most famous military campaigns, including parts of the Battle of Austerlitz. The ancient woodland and open areas were transformed into convincing 19th-century battlefields through careful set design and strategic camera angles.
The history behind the location: Bourne Wood is a film industry favourite, having featured in productions including “Gladiator” (another Ridley Scott film), “War Horse,” and several “Harry Potter” films. Its varied terrain allows it to represent many different environments, from ancient battlefields to primordial forests.
Visitor information:
- Location: Near Farnham, Surrey GU10 3rw
- Access: Public footpaths run through the woodland; however, much of it remains private
- Getting there: The nearest train station is Farnham (about 4 miles away). By car, it’s accessible via the A31.
- Nearby attractions: Waverley Abbey ruins, Farnham Castle, The Rural Life Living Museum
Travel tip: While Bourne Wood is mainly accessed via public footpaths, the surrounding Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers extensive walking opportunities that capture similar landscapes. The nearby town of Farnham provides a good base for exploring the area.
Peper Harow Park, Surrey: The Revolution Reimagined
What it depicted: Revolutionary Paris, including the execution of Marie Antoinette
This elegant country estate became the backdrop for some of the film’s most dramatic Revolutionary scenes, including the execution of Queen Marie Antoinette. The grounds were transformed to represent the Place de la Concorde in Paris, where the real guillotine stood during the Reign of Terror.
The history behind the location: Peper Harow is a historic estate dating back to the 17th century, featuring landscaped grounds designed by Capability Brown. The main house, rebuilt in the late 18th century, represents English Georgian architecture at its finest – ironically, the same period when Marie Antoinette met her fate in France.
Visitor information:
- Location: Near Godalming, Surrey
- Access: The estate is largely private, but the surrounding countryside is accessible via public footpaths
- Getting there: Godalming train station is nearby, and there are regular services from London Waterloo.
- Nearby attractions: The historic market towns of Godalming and Guildford, Loseley Park, Watts Gallery and Artists’ Village
Travel tip: While the estate has limited public access, the charming villages of Surrey offer excellent opportunities to explore similar historic landscapes. The Godalming Museum provides insights into local history, and traditional pubs serve excellent British fare.
Boughton House, Northamptonshire: “The English Versailles”
What it depicted: Napoleon’s private residences and chateau scenes
Nicknamed “The English Versailles,” Boughton House was a natural choice to represent French imperial architecture. Its French-influenced design, formal gardens, and grand interiors provided authentic-looking settings for scenes in Napoleon’s private residences.
The history behind the location: Boughton House belongs to the Duke of Buccleuch and has been in the Montagu family since 1528. Its distinctive French influence comes from the 1st Duke of Montagu, who served as ambassador to France and was inspired by Versailles when renovating his home in the late 17th century.
Visitor information:
- Location: Kettering, Northamptonshire NN14 1bj
- Opening hours: Limited seasonal opening, typically August and special events
- Admission: House and Gardens: Adults £13, Children £8
- Getting there: Kettering is the nearest train station. By car, it’s accessible from the A14 or A43.
- Nearby attractions: Rockingham Castle, Kirby Hall, Deene Park
Malta and Morocco: Mediterranean and Desert Backdrops
Travel tip: Plan your visit to Boughton House carefully, as its opening schedule is limited. The August opening period often features special exhibitions and events that enhance the visitor experience.
While England provided many European settings, Malta and Morocco played crucial roles in capturing the film’s Mediterranean and North African sequences.
Fort Ricasoli, Malta: The Siege of Toulon
What it depicted: The 1793 Siege of Toulon, Napoleon’s first major military victory
Fort Ricasoli’s imposing stone fortifications provided the perfect backdrop for recreating the Siege of Toulon, the battle that first brought Napoleon to prominence. The fort’s massive walls convincingly represented the French coastal city under siege with their distinctive Mediterranean appearance.
The history behind the location: Built in the late 17th century by the Knights of St John, Fort Ricasoli has guarded the entrance to Malta’s Grand Harbour for centuries. Its weathered limestone walls and strategic position made it an ideal stand-in for Toulon. Interestingly, Napoleon captured Malta in 1798 during his Egyptian campaign, adding another layer of historical resonance to this filming location.
Visitor information:
- Location: Kalkara, Malta
- Access: The fort is generally closed to the public except for special events
- Getting there: From Valletta, take a taxi or bus to Kalkara, where the fort can be viewed from the exterior.
- Nearby attractions: Valletta (UNESCO World Heritage site), The Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua), Malta Maritime Museum
Travel tip: While Fort Ricasoli has limited access, the nearby areas of Kalkara and the Three Cities offer excellent vantage points from which to view the fortress from the outside. A harbour cruise provides one of the best views of the fort’s impressive seaward fortifications.
Merzouga Desert, Morocco: Napoleon’s Egyptian Campaign
What it depicted: Napoleon’s Egyptian expedition and the Battle of the Pyramids (1798)
The stunning golden dunes of the Merzouga Desert in southeastern Morocco serve as a substitute for Egypt in the film, providing an exotic backdrop for Napoleon’s ambitious Egyptian campaign. The vast desert landscapes, with towering dunes rippling like waves, created a striking visual contrast to the European settings.
The history behind the location: The Merzouga Desert borders the Sahara and features some of Morocco’s most spectacular dunes, reaching 150 meters. While not the actual setting of Napoleon’s Egyptian campaign, its unspoiled desert vistas offered the filmmakers an authentic-looking landscape without modern intrusions.
Visitor information:
- Location: Southeastern Morocco, near Erfoud
- Best time to visit: October to April (to avoid extreme summer heat)
- Getting there: Fly to Errachidia or Ouarzazate, then drive or take a tour (approximately 350km from Marrakech)
- Accommodation: Desert camps and lodges in Merzouga village
- Experiences: Camel treks, 4×4 tours, overnight desert camping
Travel tip: The most magical times to experience the Merzouga dunes are sunrise and sunset, when the changing light creates spectacular colours across the sand. Consider spending at least one night in a desert camp for the whole experience, including traditional Berber music under the stars.
Planning Your Napoleon-Inspired Journey: A Travel Guide
For film enthusiasts and history buffs wanting to explore multiple Napoleon filming locations, here’s our ConnollyCove guide to creating your cinematic pilgrimage.
UK Napoleon Trail (7-10 Day Itinerary)
This itinerary connects the central UK filming locations, allowing you to experience the breadth of settings used to create Napoleon’s world.
Starting point: London
- Day 1-2: London, including Old Royal Naval College at Greenwich (used for Parisian scenes)
- Day 3-4: Surrey (Bourne Wood and Peper Harow Park)
- Days 5-6: Oxfordshire (Blenheim Palace and Oxford)
- Day 7: Northamptonshire (Boughton House)
- Day 8-9: Lincolnshire (Lincoln Cathedral and surrounding area)
- Day 10: Return to London
Travel tips:
- Transport options: For UK-based travellers, hiring a car offers the most flexibility for this itinerary. For visitors from Ireland or internationally, train travel works well between major cities, with local buses or taxis for reaching specific sites.
- Best seasons: Spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October) offer the best combination of good weather, beautiful gardens, and fewer crowds.
- Accommodation: To minimise hotel changes, consider basing yourself in key hubs like Oxford, Lincoln, and Farnham (for Surrey locations).
Malta Extension (3-4 Days)
Add to this short break to experience the Mediterranean locations featured in the film.
Itinerary highlights:
- Day 1: Valletta exploration, harbour views of Fort Ricasoli
- Day 2: The Three Cities and Kalkara (closest access to Fort Ricasoli)
- Day 3: Mdina (Malta’s ancient capital) and coastal areas
- Day 4: Return travel or extended beach stay
Travel tips:
- Getting there: Direct flights to Malta operate from most major UK airports, with approximately 3-3.5 hours flight times.
- Best seasons: May-June or September-October offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Accommodation: Valletta has an excellent base, with accommodations ranging from boutique hotels in historic buildings to modern resorts.
Budget Considerations
- UK location entry fees: Budget approximately £80-100 for entry to Blenheim Palace, Lincoln Cathedral, and Boughton House.
- UK transport: Rail passes can save on extensive train travel; booking is essential for the best fares.
- Malta costs: Generally more affordable than the UK, with meals costing about 30% less and inexpensive local transport.
Behind the Scenes: Why These Locations Work
Creating historical films involves finding modern locations that can convincingly represent the past. For “Napoleon,” the production team faced several challenges:
- Architectural authenticity: Finding buildings that accurately reflect early 19th-century French imperial style
- Practical filming requirements: Locations that can accommodate large crews and equipment
- Logistical considerations: Centralising filming in certain regions to manage costs and time
England’s wealth of preserved historical buildings made it an ideal primary location, while Malta and Morocco provided the Mediterranean and desert settings necessary for the story’s broader geographical scope.
What makes these Napoleon filming locations so fascinating is the layer of cinematic history they now carry,” explains Ciaran Connolly. Visitors to Blenheim Palace or Lincoln Cathedral can now experience these sites through multiple historical lenses – their rich heritage, connection to Napoleon’s adversaries, and role in telling his story on film.
Experience Napoleon’s World Through Film and Travel
The filming locations of “Napoleon” offer a unique opportunity to experience history through multiple lenses – the historical events themselves, their cinematic interpretation, and the rich heritage of the locations that brought them to life. From the grand palaces of England that became Napoleon’s imperial residences to the ancient fortifications of Malta that witnessed his first military triumph, these sites now carry an additional layer of cultural significance.
For travellers interested in film and history or simply seeking out unique destinations, following in the footsteps of this epic production provides a fresh perspective on familiar landmarks and introduces you to hidden gems you might otherwise miss. Whether planning a dedicated Napoleon-themed journey or simply incorporating one or two locations into a broader travel itinerary, these fascinating filming spots offer rich rewards for the curious traveller.
As you stand in Lincoln Cathedral, imagining Napoleon’s coronation, or gaze across the formal gardens of Blenheim Palace, envisioning imperial France, you’ll experience the magic that happens when historical reality meets cinematic storytelling. This truly unique travel experience brings the past vividly to life.
Have you visited any of these Napoleon filming locations? Share your experiences or plans in the comments below!
FAQs
Curious about where Ridley Scott brought Napoleon’s epic story to life? These commonly asked questions will help you navigate the fascinating filming locations that transformed English estates and Mediterranean fortresses into Napoleon’s France.
Was any of Napoleon filmed in France?
While the film is set mainly in France, very little filming occurred there. A brief shooting reportedly happened in Paris for exterior establishing shots, but most “French” scenes were filmed in England and Malta.
Which location stood in for Napoleon’s coronation at Notre Dame?
Lincoln Cathedral in Lincolnshire, England, served as the stand-in for Notre Dame Cathedral for Napoleon’s coronation scene. Its Gothic architecture and grand interior made it an ideal substitute.
Can I visit all the filming locations used in Napoleon?
Most significant locations in the UK and Malta can be viewed, though some have limited opening hours or restricted access. Blenheim Palace, Lincoln Cathedral, and the exterior of Fort Ricasoli are among the most accessible locations. Some battlefield scenes filmed on private land may not be accessible.
Where were the major battle scenes filmed?
The Battle of Austerlitz was primarily filmed in Bourne Wood, Surrey, while the Battle of Waterloo was shot at Churn Farm in Oxfordshire. The Egyptian campaign scenes were filmed in the Merzouga Desert, Morocco.
Which location appears most frequently in the film?
Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire had the most screen time, standing in for multiple French palaces and government buildings throughout the film.
Are there any Napoleon-themed tours of the filming locations?
As of 2025, specialised “Napoleon filming location” tours are beginning to emerge, particularly in the UK. For the most comprehensive experience, however, independent travel using this guide will allow you to tailor your visit to your interests.
