Where Was 'Happy New Year, Colin Burstead' Filmed?

The BBC television film Happy New Year, Colin Burstead was primarily filmed at Lytes Cary Manor, a historic National Trust property located near the village of North Curry in Somerset, England. This stately 14th-century manor house served as the central setting for the movie’s chaotic family New Year’s Eve gathering, offering a visually rich backdrop that contrasted traditional English architecture with modern familial dysfunction. As one of the most talked-about British holiday films in recent years, where Happy New Year, Colin Burstead was filmed has become a popular search query among fans seeking to explore the real-life location behind its dramatic and darkly comedic scenes.

Production Background and Filming Context

Happy New Year, Colin Burstead, written by Jack Thorne and directed by Michael Winterbottom, premiered on BBC One on December 30, 2018. The film stars Ben Whishaw in the titular role of Colin, an anxious yet well-meaning brother who rents a grand country estate to bring his fractured family together for a luxurious New Year’s celebration. What unfolds is a sharp, improvisational-style drama that blends humor, tension, and emotional revelations—hallmarks of Winterbottom’s distinctive directorial approach.

Filming took place over just 12 days in late summer 2018, with the production team opting for a largely improvised script to lend authenticity to the characters’ interactions. This technique required a controlled yet flexible filming environment—one that Lytes Cary Manor provided perfectly. The decision to shoot in this specific location was both aesthetic and practical: the manor offered period interiors, expansive grounds, and privacy essential for uninterrupted filming.

Lytes Cary Manor: A Historic Setting

Lytes Cary Manor, situated in the heart of rural Somerset, dates back to the early 1300s and has undergone several phases of restoration. Managed by the National Trust since 1907, the property features medieval great halls, ornate plasterwork, timber-framed ceilings, and beautifully landscaped gardens. These elements made it an ideal stand-in for the fictional ‘Burstead House,’ a symbol of Colin’s desire to create a perfect family reunion.

The manor’s Great Hall, with its high ceilings and stone fireplace, served as the primary space for the film’s dinner scenes and confrontations. The drawing room and library were used for quieter, more intimate moments between characters, while exterior shots captured the estate’s manicured lawns and surrounding countryside—enhancing the sense of isolation and emotional distance felt by many of the characters.

While the film presents the house as being somewhere in the West Country (consistent with the accents and cultural references), no specific town or region is named within the narrative. However, behind the scenes, the choice of Lytes Cary was deliberate. Its secluded nature allowed the cast and crew to remain undisturbed during the fast-paced shoot, and its timeless appearance helped blur the line between past and present—a thematic undercurrent throughout the film.

Why Somerset Was Chosen for Filming

Somerset has long been a favored location for British film and television productions due to its picturesque landscapes, historic buildings, and proximity to Bristol and London without the logistical challenges of urban centers. The county offers a diverse range of architectural styles—from Tudor manors to Georgian estates—making it a go-to destination for period dramas and contemporary stories alike.

In the case of Happy New Year, Colin Burstead, Somerset provided not only visual authenticity but also symbolic resonance. The rural setting underscores the disconnect between the family members, many of whom live in cities like London or Manchester. The journey to the countryside becomes a metaphor for their emotional displacement and the difficulty of reconnecting across generational and ideological divides.

Additionally, local support from councils and heritage organizations facilitated the necessary permissions for filming at a protected site. The National Trust worked closely with the production team to ensure minimal impact on the property while allowing full creative access during the short shoot window.

Cast and Improvisational Filmmaking

One of the most distinctive aspects of Happy New Year, Colin Burstead is its use of improvisation. Actors were given scene outlines rather than full scripts, encouraging spontaneous dialogue and naturalistic performances. This method demanded a cohesive ensemble cast capable of navigating complex interpersonal dynamics in real time.

The cast includes notable British actors such as Cherry Jones (as Gloria, Colin’s American stepmother), Charlotte Gainsbourg (as Sophie, Colin’s estranged wife), and Adeel Akhtar (as David, Colin’s volatile brother). Their performances, shaped by the immersive environment of Lytes Cary Manor, contributed significantly to the film’s raw emotional power.

Filming entirely on location added another layer of realism. Unlike studio sets, the actual rooms and acoustics of the manor influenced how scenes played out—echoes in hallways, limited lighting options, and spatial constraints all informed the pacing and tone of each sequence.

Reception and Cultural Impact

Upon release, Happy New Year, Colin Burstead received mixed but generally positive reviews. Critics praised its bold structure, strong performances, and unflinching portrayal of modern family life. Some viewers found the lack of a traditional narrative arc disorienting, but others appreciated the film’s realism and emotional honesty.

The question of where Happy New Year, Colin Burstead was filmed gained traction online following the broadcast, particularly among fans interested in visiting the estate. While Lytes Cary Manor remains open to the public for tours and events, visitors should note that interior access may be restricted on certain days, especially when private functions or conservation work are underway.

Aspect	Detail
Title	Happy New Year, Colin Burstead
Release Date	December 30, 2018
Director	Michael Winterbottom
Writer	Jack Thorne
Main Cast	Ben Whishaw, Cherry Jones, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Adeel Akhtar
Filming Location	Lytes Cary Manor, North Curry, Somerset, England
Filming Duration	12 days (Summer 2018)
Production Company	BBC, Revolution Films
Genre	Drama, Comedy, Family, Holiday

Visiting the Filming Location Today

For those inspired by the film to visit Lytes Cary Manor, the National Trust offers regular opening hours, guided tours, and seasonal events. Located approximately 15 miles south of Bridgwater, the manor is accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. Public transport options are limited, so advance planning is recommended.

While the interiors seen in Happy New Year, Colin Burstead are part of the standard visitor route, some rooms may be closed depending on the day. It's advisable to check the official National Trust website before traveling to confirm accessibility and any special exhibitions or closures.

The surrounding area also offers additional attractions, including the ruins of Muchelney Abbey, the Somerset Levels, and nearby towns like Langport and Taunton. Combined with the manor’s historical significance and cinematic fame, these features make it a compelling destination for film enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Common Misconceptions About the Filming Location

A frequent misconception is that Happy New Year, Colin Burstead was filmed in multiple locations across England. In reality, nearly all scenes—including interior and exterior shots—were captured at Lytes Cary Manor and its immediate grounds. There were no secondary estates or studio recreations used.

Another myth is that the house belongs to one of the actors or was specially built for the film. On the contrary, Lytes Cary is a genuine historic property with centuries of documented ownership, originally built by the de Lyte family and later restored by Sir Walter Jenner in the early 20th century.

How to Verify Filming Locations for Future Reference

When researching where a film or TV show was shot, reliable sources include:

• Official production notes from the broadcaster (e.g., BBC Press Office)
• Credit listings on databases like IMDb or BFI Screenonline
• Interviews with directors or location managers
• Press releases from heritage organizations (e.g., National Trust, English Heritage)
• Local news coverage from the time of filming

Always cross-reference information from multiple outlets to avoid misinformation, especially when fan theories or unofficial blogs suggest alternate locations.

Conclusion

Happy New Year, Colin Burstead stands out not only for its innovative storytelling but also for its evocative use of location. By choosing Lytes Cary Manor in Somerset as the sole filming site, the production created a powerful sense of place that amplified the film’s themes of tradition, alienation, and reconciliation. For audiences asking where was Happy New Year, Colin Burstead filmed, the answer lies in this centuries-old estate—a silent yet vital character in the story’s unfolding drama.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was Happy New Year, Colin Burstead filmed in one location?
Yes, the entire film was shot at Lytes Cary Manor in Somerset, England, with no other major filming sites used.

Can I tour the house where Happy New Year, Colin Burstead was filmed?
Yes, Lytes Cary Manor is open to the public through the National Trust. Check their official website for current visiting hours and tour availability.

Is Lytes Cary Manor a real historic house?
Yes, it is a genuine 14th-century manor house owned and maintained by the National Trust since 1907.

Did the cast stay at the manor during filming?
While there is no public confirmation, it’s likely that the cast stayed nearby, as accommodations within the manor are not available for rent.

Are there other films shot at Lytes Cary Manor?
As of now, Happy New Year, Colin Burstead is the most prominent film known to have been shot there, though the site has hosted photo shoots and small-scale media projects.