The beautiful Southern Oxfordshire landscape is dotted with architectural and historical sites of interest that all have one thing in common: they’ve featured in episodes of Midsomer Murders.
Over 17 series and more than 100 episodes, the production team and location scouts have made great use of the exceptional local attractions on offer. Not only has this given the show its strong visual identity and sense of place, but it’s also made a star out of these numerous locations.
We’re taking a closer look at three of them, exploring what it is that caught the producer’s eye, in which episodes they featured, and why you should visit them in their own right.
Featured episodes: Orchis Fatalis, A Sacred Trust
A National Trust Property, this 16th century mansion set in beautiful grounds with tranquil gardens, was home to the Brunner family until recently. The building features an earlier 12th century tower, and is surrounded by a series of walled gardens that stock a warm and welcoming kitchen. There’s also a Tudor donkey wheel that was in use until the early 20th century.
Stroll through the gardens, sit on a bench next to the flower beds and contemplate what life must have been like here for the family for all those years. And, of course, you’re sure to notice the familiar appearance and gardens from the above episodes.
Featured episodes: The Fisher King, Dark Secrets
There’s been a mill on this site since at least the time of the Domesday Book, which may explain the extraordinary sense of history and atmosphere at Mapledurham. It’s a fact that is further emphasised by the building appearing on the eerie and gothic front cover of heavy metal band Black Sabbath’s first album in 1970. It was also used as a filming location for the 1976 film, The Eagle Has Landed.
The mill as in use until the Second World War before falling into disrepair. It was later restored in the 1980s and brought back into use.
Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway
Featured episodes: Death in a Chocolate Box
The railway station at Chinnor has featured in the show on a number of occasions, most notably as Holm Lane Junction for the 2007 episode Death in a Chocolate Box, as well as cropping up in The Made to Measure Murders.
Visiting the station is like stepping back in time to a bygone era of railways. Ride the rails and enjoy afternoon tea on board. There are also a number of special events throughout the year.