House of the Dragon Filming Locations

Based on George R. R. Martin’s “Fire & Blood”, the upcoming prequel House of the Dragon is set about 300 years before the events portrayed in Game of Thrones. Known as the Dance of the Dragons, the members of House Targaryen wage wars of succession in order to seize the Iron Throne for themselves. Prepare to witness the rises and falls of the once all-powerful dynasty that dominated the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. Gods, kings, fire and blood – The war has just begun.

Before the much-anticipated series makes its first debut on August 21, 2022, let’s go back and view all known House of the Dragon filming locations.

England

Being an essential part of the United Kingdom, England occupies more than half of the island of Great Britain. As the third most populous island in the world, England offers thousands of acres of awe-inspiring nature parks, beaches, reserves and gardens scattered throughout the country. That being said, it is no wonder that many chose to shoot their top filming locations in the UK.

Kynance Cove

Set against the rising cliffs of the Lizard Peninsula, Kynance Cove’s brilliant turquoise water paired with almost white sand gives off an ancient feel that is sure to leave you speechless. Bask in the serpentine and ruby rock formations with outward shapes that took over millennia to form. One of Cornwall’s most beautiful sights, the distinctive pinnacle is filled with numerous caves, sea stacks and islands. There have been reports of a tented area surrounded by wooden weapon stands, tables and other structures. Hence, it is suspected that this is a part of a war camp or an armoury used by Daemon Targaryen or his niece and wife Rhaenyra.

Castleton

Situated at the head of the Hope Valley, Castleton is a lovely village in the heart of the Peak District National Park. It is one of the oldest national parks in the UK. Sheltered by the mysterious Mam Tor, locally known as the “Shivering Mountain”, this location is the ideal base for hiking up to some epic viewpoints. During the filming in September 2021, actor Matt Smith, who plays Prince Daemon Targaryen, was seen in Castleton. Along with the Prince, immerse yourself in exploring the steep limestone valleys, dramatic rock edges, wild moorlands and tranquil dales.

St. Michael’s Mount

Counted among Cornwall’s crown jewels, St. Michael’s Mount is an iconic island adorned with a medieval castle and church. With the oldest building dating to the 12th century, the island is linked to the town of Marazion by a causeway of granite blocks. In order to visit, it is possible to hop on a boat or pass between mid-tide and low water. This two-thousand-year-old island was also a filming site for House of the Dragon. There reporters managed to capture photos of a stone archway showing the House Velaryon’s sigil of a seahorse. Therefore, it’s strongly implied that this might be the location of Driftmark, Velaryon’s stronghold.

Hartland Quay

Known for experiencing some of the roughest seas in winter, Hartland Quay is situated on the Atlantic coast of Devon in Cornwall. The former harbour is the perfect place to appreciate the view as the waves crash against the incredibly contorted sea cliff and shore. On the rolling green hills on top of the cliff, a large crowd of people in burgundy velvet robes with vivid blonde hair colours were seen mingling. Set against a backdrop of the sparkling blue sea, fans speculate that this doubled as the site of Laenor Velaryon’s funeral, which was organised by King Viserys. Nevertheless, all signs hint at a significant Targaryen event that is sure to keep us on our toes.

Holywell Bay

Overseeing amazing views, Holywell Bay is a huge golden sand beach backed by grass-filled dunes and the famous twin islets, Gull Rocks. Around 500 metres off the beach at Holywell, the twin rocks welcome you as you bodyboard in the water, sunbathe or stroll along with your dog. Multiple lines of smoke could be seen trailing behind two boats on the bay. As the popular saying goes, when there’s smoke, there’s fire. So, we could definitely expect to see a dragon or two at this site! Additionally, several marshals were seen wearing long hooded black robes as they journey across the desert-like sands at Holywell Bay. 

Caesar’s Camp

Around 2500 years old, Caesar’s Camp is an Iron Age fort surrounded by lavish green meadows. With its countryside charm and natural woodlands, this history-filled site is located on the stunning Surrey hills. Constructed entirely by hand using basic tools, this remarkable piece of engineering is surely a beauty to behold. A large red tent featuring the Targaryen sigil banner was spotted at this location. By the looks of it, this scene could be from a tourney celebrating Viserys’ ascension to the throne, where Prince Daemon duelled Ser Criston Cole. 

Spain

Occupying 85% of Europe’s Iberian Peninsula, Spain is a historic country of stone castles, towering mountains and vast monuments, all of which add to its beauty. Geologically and culturally diverse, Spain was skillfully chosen as one of the most important filming locations for the upcoming series.

Cáceres

With a blend of Roman, Islamic, Gothic and Italian Renaissance, the ancient city of Cáceres still retains evidence of many different cultures present throughout the years. As one of the most beautiful UNESCO sites in Spain, the labyrinth-like laneways of the city were extensively used to represent the streets of King’s Landing. Cobbled streets and sturdy turrets closely guarded by stone gargoyles are sure to properly portray the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. Inside the ancient walls of the city, be sure to check out age-old museums and churches. This way, you can wander through one of the main House of the Dragon filming locations.

Trujillo

Boasting some of the best Roman ruins in Spain, Trujillo is a gorgeous medieval town built on top of a giant hill. The fortified town is filled with ancient buildings that date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. One of them that’s particularly impressive is the main square in Trujillo. Together with its historic parts, it recently transformed into a fully-fledged medieval market. Surrounded by the atrium of the San Martín Church and the equestrian statue of Francisco Pizarro, multiple floats and stalls are scattered all over the place. Furthermore, GoT fans might recognise the famous Trujillo castle as Casterly Rock, the ancestral stronghold of House Lannister.

Castillo de la Calahorra 

Built between 1509 and 1512, the awe-inspiring Castillo de la Calahorra is one of the first Italian Renaissance castles to be built outside Italy. Sitting at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, the spectacular 16th-century castle is overlooking the nearby village of La Calahorra. With Matt Smith being spotted on site, it’s practically confirmed that some of the scenes from House of the Dragon were being filmed here. When looked at from afar, it clearly makes the perfect backdrop for fire-breathing dragons. The desolate fort only adds to the mystical beauty of the site.

Lloret de Mar

On the rugged and wild Costa Brava in Spain’s Catalonia region lies Lloret de Mar. It is a thousand-year-old city that boasts more than 100 nightclubs and bars. Besides going out and partying, this beautiful seaside resort is famous for its rich history and unparalleled nature. The Santa Clotilde Gardens offer a phenomenal picturesque view of the Mediterranean Sea. At the same time, the rocky coastline is adorned with many irregular rocks and bays. It is said that the garden’s main stairway, known as the Stairway of the Mermaids, will double as the Red Keep Gardens. Supposedly, this is where Helaena Targaryen, the sister-wife to King Aegon II Targaryen, might make an appearance.

Portugal

Bordering Spain, Portugal lies along the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula. Its wild and scenic landscapes differ tremendously across the country. The north stands out for its cold and rocky mountainous scenery, while the country’s south is warm, sunny and filled with numerous beaches. Although only one known location appeared in House of the Dragon, it was highly placed on the list of the best small towns to visit in Portugal.

Monsanto

Known as the City of Stone, Monsanto is one of Portugal’s oldest villages. Namely, the Castle of Monsanto is a formidable stone fortress beautifully incorporated into the rocky landscape. Standing on its substantial granite boulders, the centuries-old fortress is decorated with arched gates and walled courtyards. The ancient castle will supposedly double as Dragonmont, a volcanic mountain on the island of Dragonstone, where Rhaenyra will be crowned while surrounded by an army of ferocious dragons. 

House of the Dragon Filming Locations Map