Nestled in the heart of Norfolk, the charming town of Thetford is synonymous with the beloved British television sitcom, “Dad’s Army.” This historic town, with its picturesque streets and classic English charm, served as the primary filming location for the series, which aired from 1968 to 1977. For fans of the show, a walking tour of Thetford’s filming locations offers a delightful journey back in time to the era of the Home Guard and the quirky, lovable characters of Walmington-on-Sea.
Your walking tour begins at the Thetford Guildhall, an iconic 17th-century building located in the Market Place. This historic structure doubled as Walmington-on-Sea’s Town Hall, where Captain Mainwaring and his men frequently convened. Standing before the Guildhall, you can almost hear the echoes of the platoon’s earnest discussions and Captain Mainwaring’s indignant harumphs.
A short stroll from the Guildhall takes you to St. Peter’s Church. While not a primary filming location, the church’s surrounding area was often featured in various street scenes. The church itself, with its impressive tower and traditional architecture, provides a quintessentially English backdrop that fans of the series will find familiar.
Next, head towards Bridge Street, a central location in many episodes. On Bridge Street, you’ll find the Bell Hotel, which was prominently featured as the backdrop for several scenes. This 15th-century coaching inn exudes historical charm and offers an authentic feel of the period depicted in the series. Pause here for a moment to soak in the ambiance and perhaps enjoy a drink in the same setting as the show’s characters.
From Bridge Street, meander down to the Little Ouse River for a scenic Riverside Walk. This tranquil path was used for numerous outdoor shots in “Dad’s Army.” The gentle flow of the river and the lush greenery create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for reflecting on the comedic and heartfelt moments of the series. As you walk, you may recognize specific spots from memorable scenes, such as the platoon’s training exercises and various escapades. The Riverside Walk, stretching about two miles, traces the River Wensum throughout its length. This scenic footpath enters Norwich from the northwest, then meanders eastward along the city’s northern edge before turning south and concluding at Thorpe railway station.
The statue to Captain Mainwaring which was erected in 2010 is seated on a bench by the Old Anchor Hotel.
Continue your tour to Stanhope Road, where you will encounter the Anchor Hotel, another notable filming site. This location was used in the episode “Sons of the Sea,” where the platoon mistakenly believed they had drifted out to sea. The Anchor Hotel’s charming facade remains largely unchanged, making it a delightful spot for fans to visit and reminisce about the episode’s humorous twists.
Your next stop is Thetford’s historic railway station. Although now modernized, the station’s vintage charm was captured in the series, especially in the episode “The Big Parade.” The station’s platform and surrounding area were perfect for scenes involving the platoon’s mobilization and interactions with the local townsfolk. The station serves as a nostalgic reminder of the era depicted in “Dad’s Army.”
Conclude your walking tour at the Thetford Museum, home to a dedicated Dad’s Army collection. Located in the ancient King’s House, the museum offers an extensive array of memorabilia, including costumes, scripts, and props from the series. The museum’s exhibits provide fascinating insights into the making of the show and its enduring popularity. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your tour, allowing you to delve deeper into the world of “Dad’s Army” and the people who brought it to life.
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Brit Movie Tours
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