5 Stunning Saltburn Filming Locations — Jacob Elordi’s Latest Thriller

Updated On: January 31, 2024 by   Miranne Khaled

Unveil the secrets that lie beneath the opulent facade in Saltburn, a 2023 film that will leave you spellbound. Nestled within the heart of a magnificent English estate, Emerald Fennell masterfully orchestrates a captivating dance between psychological intrigue and biting humour. Prepare to be swept away by the intoxicating world of the aristocratic Catton family, where Barry Keoghan shines as Oliver Quick, a student inescapably drawn into their opulent orbit.

As tensions simmer and hidden desires ignite, the lines between reality and illusion become dangerously blurred. Secrets slither from the shadows, threatening to unravel the carefully constructed facade of this seemingly perfect world. Fennell’s masterful direction keeps you on the edge of your seat, each twist and turn adding to the mounting anticipation.

Prepare for a climax as unforgettable as the estate, where truth and deception collide in a heart-stopping crescendo. Saltburn is a cinematic treat for those who relish the thrill of psychological suspense, razor-sharp wit, and performances that resonate long after the credits roll. 

Let’s get to know the real-life filming locations where Oliver navigated the treacherous waters of privilege and desire and brace yourself for a cinematic experience that will leave you breathless.

Drayton House, Northamptonshire

Step beyond the velvet rope and into the opulent world of Saltburn. Nestled within 200 verdant acres of Northamptonshire, the film’s enchanting setting is not your typical grand estate. For the first time in its centuries-long history, Drayton House, a 127-room Elizabethan masterpiece draped in Baroque grandeur, throws open its doors to the silver screen. 

In a bold move echoing the film’s themes of transgression and hidden desires, Director Emerald Fennell intentionally sought a location unseen before, crafting an immersive experience where opulent architecture whispers forgotten secrets and sun-drenched gardens harbour simmering tensions. 

Prepare to be swept away by the intoxicating air of privilege and intrigue as the Catton family’s summer unfolds within the walls of this historic gem, forever etched in the cinematic tapestry of Saltburn.

Oxford University in England

Emerald Fennell’s captivating 2023 film Saltburn opens with a serendipitous encounter amidst the hallowed halls of Oxford University. As Oliver Quick and Felix Catton first cross paths, the camera pans across picturesque courtyards and ivy-clad walls, inviting viewers into the heart of this historic institution. But beyond the cinematic backdrop, Oxford University boasts a rich tapestry of intellectual pursuits, architectural marvels, and timeless traditions stretching back centuries.

Founded in 1096, Oxford is the world’s oldest English-speaking university, attracting scholars and renowned minds for over nine centuries. Its colleges, each unique in architectural style and history, serve as living testaments to this legacy. 

Here, amidst serene gardens and grand halls, generations of philosophers, scientists, and literary giants have left their mark, shaping the course of history and inspiring future generations.

The Old Library at Magdalen College

Saltburn isn’t just a captivating film; it’s a cinematic invitation to step back in time and wander the hallowed halls of Oxford University. The opening scene unfolds amidst the Gothic grandeur of Magdalen College, where the towering Founders Tower casts a watchful eye as Oliver Quick and Felix Catton’s destinies intertwine. 

Its imposing presence sets the stage for a narrative steeped in secrets and desires, echoing the centuries of knowledge and whispers within these ancient walls. But Magdalen’s magic extends beyond the Founders Tower. Saltburn grants viewers a rare glimpse into the college’s 15th-century Old Library. This peaceful sanctuary, lined with oak-panelled shelves and bathed in the warm glow of stained glass windows, holds more than just ancient tomes.

Beyond Magdalen’s embrace, Saltburn paints the town red with contrasting settings. The sprawling lawns of St. Hugh’s College offer a haven of serene beauty, a stark counterpoint to the simmering tensions under the Catton family roof. Meanwhile, the opulent halls of Brasenose College reflect the aristocratic world they inhabit, hinting at the lavish lifestyle that fuels their ambitions and desires.

Launceston Place in Kensington, London

Dating back to 1839, this Grade II listed townhouse boasts a vibrant past. Initially, it served as a private residence for Sir William Hutt, a prominent politician and socialite. Throughout the years, it housed figures like Queen Victoria and even witnessed the birth of a future Prime Minister. In the mid-20th century, Launceston Place was transformed into a restaurant, becoming a haven for discerning gourmands and a magnet for London’s high society.

Stepping into Launceston Place is like stepping into another era. The grand facade, adorned with intricate ironwork and sweeping balconies, hints at the opulence within. As you enter, the atmosphere transforms into a warm and inviting embrace. Plush velvet booths, antique mirrors, and a crackling fireplace create a space that whispers of refined luxury.

But beyond the physical beauty, Launceston Place is renowned for its culinary experiences. Chef Patron Ben Murphy, crowned National Chef of the Year 2022, curates a seasonally-inspired menu that elevates modern European cuisine to an art form. Each dish is a symphony of flavours, textures, and colours, using the finest local ingredients and showcasing masterful culinary techniques.

Brasenose College

Saltburn takes their fans on a journey through the heart of England, weaving together contemporary intrigue with the storied past of renowned institutions. Among these, Brasenose College in Oxford is a testament to academic excellence and hidden desires, playing a pivotal role in shaping the film’s narrative.

Founded in 1509, Brasenose College boasts a history rich in intellectualism and intrigue. Its hallowed halls have nurtured the minds of countless scholars, politicians, and cultural icons, including William Gladstone, Thomas Cromwell, and T.S. Eliot. The college’s architecture reflects this legacy, a harmonious blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles that whispers of centuries of knowledge and whispered conspiracies.

In Saltburn, Brasenose College steps beyond its role as a historical backdrop to become a crucial setting for character development and plot advancement. The dining hall scene, where Oliver encounters the enigmatic math genius Michael Gavey (played by Ewan Mitchell), holds a particular significance. The grand oak-panelled walls, adorned with portraits of illustrious alumni, witness a conversation that induces a series of events that forever alters Oliver’s destiny.

The Cast of Saltburn 

Saltburn, set in England, derives its black comedy from its brilliantly crafted characters, brought to life by a talented ensemble of actors. The story revolves around Oliver Quick, a scholarship student who finds himself marginalised due to his unfamiliarity with the customs and behaviour of the elite. 

However, his life takes a turn when he strikes up a friendship with the wealthy and renowned Felix Catton. Upon hearing about Oliver’s hardships and family struggles, Felix invites Oliver to join him and his family at their grand estate, Saltburn, to help him feel accepted and at ease.

Barry Keoghan as Oliver Quick

In the enchanting town of Saltburn, amidst the grandeur of Oxford University, Oliver Quick emerges as a resilient protagonist, navigating through a sea of elitism that threatens to engulf him. As he strives to find his place among the upper echelons of society, Oliver’s battle becomes increasingly fierce. The very fabric of his social existence seems to unravel before his eyes as his peers scorn him for his humble background.

But fate intervenes, casting a lifeline in the form of Felix, an unexpected ally in Oliver’s quest for metamorphosis. With Felix by his side, Oliver’s journey takes an exciting turn, forever altering the course of his social destiny.

In the mesmerising world of Saltburn, Barry Keoghan embodies the enigmatic Oliver Quick. This talented actor’s portrayal of Dominic in The Banshees of Inisherin earned him the prestigious BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. His captivating performance also garnered Golden Globe and Oscar nominations, solidifying his status as an irresistible force in the realm of cinema.

Jacob Elordi as Felix Catton

In a striking dichotomy from Oliver, Felix hails from a lavish aristocratic lineage. This affluent background effortlessly garners him acceptance amongst the elites in his institution. However, his refusal to adopt an air of superiority towards Oliver sets him apart and makes him exceptional. 

Instead, he chooses to forge a genuine friendship with him, inviting him to his illustrious family estate, Saltburn, for an unforgettable summer experience. Jacob Elordi’s meteoric rise to stardom can be attributed to his memorable performances in popular coming-of-age films and television shows like Kissing Booth and Euphoria.

But it was in the year 2023 that his acting career took an electrifying turn, propelling him into uncharted territory. In his portrayal of the iconic Elvis in Pricilla and the enigmatic Ian in The Sweet East, Elordi showcased his versatility and captivated audiences in a new way.

Archie Madekwe as Farleigh Start

Tensions simmer beneath the surface as Felix and his loving mother extend their kindness to Oliver, Felix’s cousin in the quaint town of Saltburn. However, there is one individual who remains sceptical of Oliver’s intentions – Farleigh Start. Played by the talented Archie Madekwe, Farleigh suspects that Oliver is merely using their family as a stepping stone to ascend the social ladder. 

You may recognise Archie from his captivating performances in notable works such as Gran Turismo, Beau is Afraid, Love, Death, & Robots, and the haunting Midsommar. Additionally, he left a lasting impression as Courfeyrac in the esteemed production of Les Misérables. Brace yourself for a gripping tale where trust and ambition collide in Saltburn.

Rosamund Pike as Elsbeth Catton

Saltburn reveals the uncanny resemblance between Felix and his mother, Elsbeth. Like her son, Elsbeth has a remarkable ability to understand and connect with people, as evidenced by her deep empathy towards Oliver and his family tragedy. With open arms, she welcomes him into their grand estate, ensuring that he feels a sense of belonging and comfort in their midst. 

Portraying Elsbeth Catton is the talented Rosamund Pike, renowned for her captivating performances in iconic films such as Gone Girl, Jack Reacher, and Pride & Prejudice. Her portrayal of Elsbeth is bound to leave an impression, adding another layer of depth to the captivating world of Saltburn.

Pike’s versatility extends beyond the silver screen, as she has also enthralled audiences with her remarkable presence in acclaimed TV shows, including The Wheel of Time, Moominvalley, Radioactive, and Thunderbirds Are Go.

Saltburn is a cinematic feast for those who crave the chilling edge of psychological suspense, the whip-crack of razor-sharp wit, and performances that linger long after the credits roll. It’s a film that will captivate your senses, twist your emotions, and leave you breathless by the final moment. So dive into the opulent world of the Catton family, where shadows hold whispers and summer days simmer with hidden desires.