A stroll along its meandering rivers and grand baroque palace will transport you to the heart of the Regency era, before a vibrant feel in its high street packed with independent shops
Amy Jones Senior Travel Journalist
12:30, 05 Feb 2026
A visit here will feel as though you’ve stepped into a scene from Bridgerton(Image: Getty Images)
Just an hour from London is a charming neighbourhood made up of two villages, with winding rivers, grand Victorian structures and a high street packed with independent treasures. Those visiting will feel as though they’ve stepped straight onto the set of Bridgerton with its enchanting allure, and there’s a good reason.
Molesey in Surrey comprises two large villages, East Molesey and West Molesey, which are nestled along the south bank of the River Thames. Smaller rivers meander on the outskirts of Molesey while reservoirs and nature reserves make up this spectacular landscape.
One of its most well-known attractions is Hampton Court Palace, the former home of Henry VIII, with its Great Hall and Tudor kitchens set within 750 acres of sprawling grounds in East Molesey. Visitors can tour the grand baroque palace built for William III and Mary II, and wander the serene Privy Garden and the noteworthy court maze.
Molesey, Surrey, is made up of two large villages, East Molesey and West Molesey(Image: Getty Images)
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Its magnificent baroque architecture is a marvel to behold, so it’s no wonder that it’s been used as a filming location for the hit Netflix series, Bridgerton. Set in the perfect Regency-era setting, Hampton Court Palace has been frequently featured in drama, including in the newest series and as the exterior of Queen Charlotte’s lavish abode.
Its majestic backdrop has also been used in a series of TV and film productions, only adding to its elite status. Notable filming productions include Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again! for its Great Fountain Garden, The Theory of Everything, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, and The Great.
Visitors have long praised the real-life TV set and fascinating history that fills the palace. One shared on TripAdvisor: “We had an incredible time here at the castle. There’s so much history here that we could have stayed all day. The castle is enormous, so make sure to plan this for your entire day. A definite can’t miss if you’re visiting!!”
Hampton Court Palace is an enchanting place to visit(Image: Getty Images)
A second commented: “So beautiful, the palace has been well preserved. The staff on site were lovely and helpful. So much history here. Loved our visit.”
A third also penned: “An excellent experience for history buffs with a beautifully preserved palace and splendid grounds. Lots to see, including some works of art by renowned painters, and it’s important to attempt the famous maze.”
But Hampton Court Palace isn’t the only notable feature in these charming villages. Along its high street, it’s brimming with boutiques, antiques and independent stores, cosy cafes, and inviting restaurants, from Mezzet, Mezzet Dar Tapas and Le Petit Nantais.
There is a catalogue of pubs in the area(Image: Surrey Live / Darren Pepe)
After a stroll along its scenic rivers, there are plenty of charming pubs to grab a drink or a classic British dish, including at The Prince Of Wales, The Royal Oak, The Poyntz Arms or The Mute Swan. There are also acres of countryside to explore, including at Molesey Reservoirs Nature Reserve, and Molesey Lock or the nearby Bushy Park.
One traveller visited the lock and shared: “The Molesey lock on the River Thames was originally built in 1815 and rebuilt in 1905. There is also a weir here. It is only a short distance from Hampton Court Palace, the lock is very scenic, and it is a popular walking area.”
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