Where was War Horse Filmed?
War Horse, a critically acclaimed film directed by Steven Spielberg, tells the story of a young boy named Albert and his beloved horse, Joey, who is sold to the cavalry and sent to the front lines of World War I. The film’s stunning visuals and emotional storytelling have captivated audiences worldwide. But have you ever wondered where this epic tale was filmed? Let’s take a journey to explore the locations where War Horse was shot.
Filming Locations
War Horse was filmed on location in several countries, including the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. Here’s a breakdown of the main filming locations:
| Location | Country | Role in the Film |
|---|---|---|
| War Horse Farm | Dorset, England | The farm where Albert grows up and raises Joey |
| New Forest | Hampshire, England | The area where Joey is sold to the cavalry and shipped off to France |
| Blenheim Palace | Oxfordshire, England | The location of the cavalry’s headquarters |
| French Countryside | France | The rural areas where Joey and his human companions navigate during the war |
| War Torn Villages | France and Germany | The locations where the battle scenes were filmed |
War Horse Farm – Dorset, England
The film’s opening scenes were shot at War Horse Farm, a beautiful 18th-century farmhouse in Dorset, England. The farm’s rolling hills and picturesque countryside provided the perfect backdrop for Albert’s idyllic childhood and his bond with Joey.
New Forest – Hampshire, England
The New Forest, located in Hampshire, England, was used to film the scenes where Joey is sold to the cavalry and shipped off to France. The forest’s dense woods and heathlands added a sense of drama and tension to the scenes.
Blenheim Palace – Oxfordshire, England
Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, was used as the location for the cavalry’s headquarters. The palace’s grand architecture and opulent interiors provided a stark contrast to the war-torn landscapes that followed.
French Countryside – France
The French Countryside was used to film the scenes where Joey and his human companions navigate during the war. The rolling hills, villages, and fields of France added a sense of realism and authenticity to the film’s war scenes.
War Torn Villages – France and Germany
The War Torn Villages were used to film the battle scenes and the devastating effects of war on civilians. The villages were deliberately left in a state of disrepair to create a sense of authenticity and to convey the brutal reality of war.
Additional Filming Locations
In addition to these main locations, War Horse was also filmed at several other locations, including:
- London’s Lambeth Bridge, which was used to film the scenes where Albert says goodbye to Joey
- Cardiff Castle, which was used as the location for the cavalry’s training grounds
- The Czech Republic, which was used to film the scenes where Joey is captured by the Germans
Conclusion
War Horse is a film that has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, and its stunning visuals and emotional storytelling are a testament to the power of filmmaking. From the rolling hills of Dorset to the war-torn villages of France and Germany, the film’s diverse range of filming locations added depth and authenticity to the story. Whether you’re a history buff, a horse lover, or simply a fan of great storytelling, War Horse is a film that is sure to leave you moved and inspired.
Behind-the-Scenes Facts
- The horses used in the film were trained for over a year before filming began
- The horses were fitted with prosthetic legs to create the illusion of Joey’s journey
- The film’s famous "No Man’s Land" scene was filmed in a single take
- The film’s score was composed by John Williams, who is known for his iconic scores for films like Jurassic Park and Indiana Jones
- The film’s costume designer, Joanna Johnston, won an Academy Award for her work on the film
