Image Source: The New York Times
Netflix’s House of Guinness has captured the imaginations of viewers since its release in September 2025. This historical drama provides insight into the Guinness family’s legacy following the death of their patriarch in the 19th century. Although the series is set in Dublin, it was primarily filmed across various locations in North West England, which has sparked a lot of interest among fans eager to explore where their favorite scenes were shot.
Where Was House of Guinness Filmed?
Despite its Dublin setting, House of Guinness was largely filmed in England, particularly in cities like Liverpool, Manchester, and Yorkshire. As showrunner Steven Knight pointed out, the modern landscape of Dublin doesn’t resemble how it appeared in the 1860s. This creative decision allowed the filming team to utilize England’s Georgian-era architecture effectively.
Key Filming Locations
- Liverpool: The city served as a primary backdrop for the series, featuring historic sites like St. George’s Hall, which appeared during key scenes involving riots and demonstrations.
- Manchester: Specific streets such as Dale Street and China Lane were transformed to represent the vibrant Bowery neighborhood of New York in episode 4.
- Stockport: The underbanks here were utilized to depict the streets of Dublin, alongside St. Mary’s Church and St. George’s Church, enhancing authenticity.
- Penrhyn Castle: Located in North Wales, this significant castle stood in for Ashford Castle in the Guinness family’s history, playing a vital role in demonstrating their legacy.
- Stanley Dock: The industrial backdrop here served as a stand-in for the operational St. James’s Gate Brewery, showcasing the intricacies of the brewing process.
Recreating Historic Estates
One of the challenges for the production team was replicating the family’s grand estates. Emphasis was on locations that still had historical significance. For instance:
- Croxteth Hall: This site was used to recreate the exterior of the Guinness family’s Dublin mansion, Iveagh House. Interiors were shot on sound stages to mirror the opulent rooms of this historic estate.
- Broughton Hall: Used in scenes that depict the family’s extravagant St. Anne’s house, which was lost to a fire decades ago, the hall provided a fitting historical backdrop.
Why Choose These Locations?
Director Tom Shankland explained that they opted for these English settings because they could better portray the time period. Liverpool’s Georgian-era streets mirrored Dublin’s past significantly more than present-day Dublin could provide. This decision aligned with the show’s goal to be true to the historical context of the Guinness family narrative.
The Impact of Filming Decisions
The filming choices have not only facilitated a rich visual storytelling experience but have also sparked renewed interest in historical sites in England. As viewers tune in to the series, there is an evident curiosity about these locations, potentially influencing tourism as fans seek to visit areas used in the production.
Conclusion
House of Guinness stands out not only for its engaging storytelling but also for its fascinating choice of filming locations. By bringing together historical accuracy with cinematic flair, Netflix has crafted a series that resonates with audiences eager to learn more about the legacy of Arthur Guinness. For fans of historical dramas, this series provides a unique glimpse into the past, all while beautifully showcasing the charm of English landscapes.
FAQs
What is House of Guinness about?
House of Guinness is a historical drama depicting the life of the Guinness family after the death of their patriarch, Arthur Guinness, focusing on family dynamics and brewing heritage.
Where can I watch House of Guinness?
House of Guinness is available for streaming on Netflix since its release on September 29, 2025.
Is the show based on a true story?
Yes, the show is inspired by the real-life history of the Guinness family and their brewing legacy in Ireland.
What makes the filming locations special?
The locations were chosen for their historical significance and to authentically represent Dublin’s 19th-century architecture, which reflects the series’ time period and setting.
Will there be a second season of House of Guinness?
As of now, there has been no official announcement regarding a second season. Fans are eagerly awaiting news from Netflix.
