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Have you ever wondered where is Hot Fuzz filmed? Then, keep on reading.
Hot Fuzz, the second installment in Edgar Wright’s acclaimed Cornetto trilogy, is renowned for its unique blend of action, comedy, and a distinctively British flavor.
Released in 2007, the film follows the adventures of an overachieving London police officer as he is reassigned to a seemingly tranquil English village.
As you delve into the idyllic world of Sandford, you’ll be interested to learn that most of the movie was actually shot in the city of Wells, Somerset, the smallest city in England.
This historic city, with its impressive cathedral and charming streets, doubled as the fictional town of Sandford, providing the perfect backdrop for the movie’s blend of whimsy and mayhem.
While Sandford itself may be a creation for the story, the filming locations in Wells are very real and accessible.
The city’s Market Square and picturesque bishop’s palace lend an authenticity to the setting that contributes significantly to the movie’s appeal.
Wells was not the only filming location, though.
The production team selected other spots across Somerset, as well as locations in Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, and Essex, to bring Hot Fuzz to life.
The varied locations offered a rich tableau that added to the cinematic texture of the film, enabling the movie to resonate with audiences around the world.
If you’re a fan, a visit to Wells might just make you feel like you’ve stepped into Sandford itself.
Where Is Hot Fuzz Filmed?
Hot Fuzz is a much-loved British action comedy set in a seemingly quaint and peaceful village.
You might be surprised to learn that the charming settings are actually real places you can visit in the UK.
Wells, Somerset
Wells in Somerset served as the primary backdrop for the picturesque village of Sandford.
You’ll recognize Market Square as the central hub of the fictional town where much of the action unfolds.
The stunning Wells Cathedral and the Bishop’s Palace also make prominent appearances, providing a grand and historical setting.
Sandford Police Station
In the film, Sandford’s police station is a key location for the unfolding drama.
While not a real station, these scenes were filmed at a distinctive building in Wells, located at 1 Welch Street.
Though it’s not an operational police station, the exterior has become quite an attraction for film enthusiasts.
The Crown Pub
The local pub, where Sergeant Angel first meets some of Sandford’s residents, is depicted as The Crown at Wells.
This is not a set but a real pub located at Market Place, where you can stop by for a pint and soak in the atmosphere of a key Hot Fuzz location.
Secondary Filming Locations
In addition to the primary setting in Wells, Somerset, Hot Fuzz features scenes shot in various other locations.
These secondary areas added their own charm and character to the film.
North London
In North London, the Peel Centre, also known as Hendon Police College, served as an important backdrop for police training scenes.
This location underscored the professional aspect of the protagonist’s police work.
Edenbridge, Kent
Your cinematic journey also takes you to Edenbridge in Kent.
The town’s rural visuals provided a perfect stand-in for the quaint village vibe the film portrays, despite not being centrally featured.
Fictional Setting
In the world of cinema, it’s not uncommon for real locations to be transformed into fictional settings with their own unique identity.
In “Hot Fuzz,” the village of Sandford is one such creation.
Sandford Village
Sandford, the centerpiece of the film Hot Fuzz, is your classic British village in the countryside, idyllic and serene on the surface.
- Location: While Sandford itself is a product of fiction, it was brought to life by filming in Wells, Somerset.
- Details: Wells is the smallest city in England, with the heart and size of a village, making it the perfect stand-in for the tight-knit community of Sandford.
- Connection to Director: Interestingly, Wells is more than just a filming location; it’s a part of Edgar Wright’s childhood, lending a layer of personal authenticity to the fictional village.
Although you can’t visit Sandford on any map, you can walk the streets of Wells and find yourself treading the same paths where the characters of Hot Fuzz carried out their comedic exploits.
Behind The Scenes
As you explore the magic of “Hot Fuzz”, you’ll uncover the meticulous work in production design and the distinct style in direction and cinematography that helped bring this beloved action-comedy to life.
Production Design
The quaint yet quirky setting of Sandford in “Hot Fuzz” was brought to reality through the picture-perfect town of Wells, Somerset.
Your eyes were not deceiving you—this place is the smallest city in England, naturally providing the film with a village ambiance.
Notably, the Market Square in Wells served as the central backdrop, transforming seamlessly into the fictional world of Sandford.
Direction and Cinematography
Edgar Wright’s hallmark fast-paced editing and clever camera work are evident in “Hot Fuzz”.
Edgar utilized his intimate knowledge of Wells, his childhood town, to its fullest.
You can feel the authenticity in scenes like the supermarket chase, where the exterior shots were filmed at a local Somerfield, and the large-scale interior scenes at a disused Safeway in West London, cleverly stitching together both locations to serve the narrative seamlessly.
Wright’s visual style made “Hot Fuzz” not just a comedy, but a cinematic experience.
Key Takeaways
- Filming Location: The primary setting for Hot Fuzz is the tranquil town of Wells in Somerset.
- Here you’ll find the iconic Market Square which served as the center of the fictional village of ‘Sandford’.
- Other Spots: While Wells was the focal point, filming also branched out to other areas.
- These included Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, and London. Locations such as Hendon Police College and Wards Hurst Farm in Hertfordshire also played a role.
- Filming Hotspots:
- The Swan Hotel: This location is featured notably in the film.
- Wells Market Square: This serves as the backdrop for several scenes including a memorable shootout.
- Village Square: It’s central to the film’s climax and pivotal chase scenes.
If you’re a fan looking to tread in the footsteps of Simon Pegg and Nick Frost’s characters, a visit to Wells allows you to immerse yourself in many of ‘Sandford’s’ key scenes.
Keep an eye out for the renowned swan!
- Maps and Guides: When planning your trip, search for resources that provide maps or location lists.
- This will enhance your experience and help guide you to the spots where the movie magic happened.
- Cult Classic Recognition: Hot Fuzz, directed by Edgar Wright and starring a notable ensemble cast, has gained cult status for its satirical portrayal of small-town Britain and its unique blend of action and humor.
