Where Was ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ Filmed?

Netflix’s recently released film, *The Thursday Murder Club*, based on the 2020 novel, has quickly captivated audiences, climbing the streamer’s charts since its August 22 release. The movie follows a group of retirees who meet at the fictional Cooper’s Chase retirement home to solve cold cases. Director Chris Columbus described Cooper’s Chase as “the Hogwarts version of a retirement community.” Given the film’s setting, atmosphere, and accents, it’s no surprise that much of the production took place in and around London, England.

Is Cooper’s Chase a Real Place?

While London offers numerous retirement homes, Cooper’s Chase itself is a fictional creation specifically for the film. Key scenes depicting the elder care facility were actually filmed at the renowned Englefield Estate in Berkshire, England. This historic estate, dating back to the 16th century, features imposing Elizabethan-style architecture, intricate stonework, and stunning floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of its beautiful gardens.

The Englefield Estate is open to the public year-round, providing visitors with excellent photo opportunities and a chance to admire its ancient craftsmanship. Notably, this estate has also served as a filming location for other popular productions, including Disney’s *Cruella* and Netflix’s *The Crown*.

Exploring London’s Filming Locations and Tourist Spots

For those inspired by the film to visit London, the spring months of April and May are often recommended for first-time visitors due to mild weather and ample opportunities to explore film locations. Summer visits may require packing for humidity, while fall and winter necessitate warm clothing for the cold and rain.

London boasts a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, trains, and cable cars, making it easy to navigate. Taxis and rideshare services are also readily available. Many major tourist attractions are accessible via specific bus lines. The city is also quite walkable, offering a great way to stay active while sightseeing. Fortunately, visiting the filming locations for *The Thursday Murder Club* is relatively straightforward, as most scenes were concentrated around the Englefield Estate.

Additional shots for the film were captured at Shepperton Studios in Surrey, England. Netflix has a multi-million dollar production deal with these studios, utilizing their soundstages and lots for various content. While Shepperton Studios is not open to the public for general tours, they do host special events, studio tours, and training sessions on a variable schedule, offering opportunities for those interested in behind-the-scenes work in the film industry.

Things to Do and Where to Eat in London

Beyond the film locations, London offers a wealth of attractions. Iconic sights like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and the British Museum are must-sees for first-time visitors. Various tours are available, including food tours, historical walks, and even tours focused on filming locations from franchises like *Harry Potter*.

For dining, London presents a diverse culinary scene. Highly-rated eateries include the Michelin-starred Chiltern Firehouse, Ottolenghi Spitalfields, and 64 Old Compton Street. For those on a tighter budget, classic pub fare like fish and chips, paired with a pint of Guinness, offers an authentic London experience. Visitors can also find souvenirs at Borough Market or take day trips to nearby attractions like Stonehenge or Windsor Castle.

Accommodation options in London range from budget-friendly chain hotels to luxurious stays like The Chesterfield Mayfair, St Martins Lane London, or the Cadogan Belmond Hotel. Venturing out and socializing with locals can lead to memorable experiences and even lifelong friendships, perhaps bonded over a shared interest in solving mysteries.

Frequently Asked Questions

In *The Thursday Murder Club*, Elizabeth Best, portrayed by Helen Mirren, serves as the de facto leader. Her past as a top-ranking MI6 spy gives her unique advantages in uncovering clues, identifying suspicious coincidences, and spotting nefarious actors. While the film might feel incredibly real, the story is entirely fictional and not based on any specific true events.