Penshurst Place to star in new period adventure

Television viewers are set to see inside Penshurst Place in Kent as the house and gardens have been used to film scenes for a new drama.

Renegade Nell, which premieres on the Disney+ channel on 29 March, tells the story of an 18th Century highwaywoman.

It was written by Sally Wainwright, who also wrote the hit drama Happy Valley, with Derry Girls star Louise Harland in the title role.

Penshurst Place's general manager Ben Thomas said the most memorable moment of filming was the arrival of several snakes on set.

The eight-part series tells the story of Nell Jackson, who becomes a highwaywoman after being framed for murder.

Filming took place in November 2022, when Penshurst's crypt was used to depict a candle factory, while the panelled room acted as the study and bedroom of Nell’s adversary, the Earl of Poynton, played by Hustle star Adrian Lester.

The gardens and Inner Courtyard portrayed some of the grounds at Poynton’s home.

Mr Thomas said: “A stand-out moment was the arrival on set of several large and very-much-alive snakes in the Panelled Room.

"It was a little worrying at first but a specialist snake-handler was on hand to provide assistance and ensure everyone’s safety.”

The house, built in 1341, has been a favourite with filmmakers for many years.

It has featured in Merlin, The Other Boleyn Girl, Anne of the Thousand Days, Mary Queen of Scots and Wolf Hall.

One of its most famous big screen appearances was as the location for the fencing scene in The Princess Bride.

Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.