Scots acting legend, James Cosmo, has spoken of the “magical quality” of films shot in Scotland, as VisitScotland launches its new-look guide to big screen locations — featuring films from across Ayrshire and Arran.
The star of iconic Scottish films, Highlander, Braveheart and Trainspotting, and TV fantasy series, Game of Thrones, pens the foreword to the national tourism organisation’s revamped guidebook, Set in Scotland.
The 52-page guide is available in VisitScotland iCentres across the country and can be downloaded from visitscotland.com.
Films which feature locations in Ayrshire and Arran include: The Wicker Man (1973), The Governess (1998) and The Flying Scotsman (2006).
Actor James Cosmo, 75, whose film career has spanned six decades, writes in the foreword: “Throughout my career I have been privileged enough to be involved in many films that have made a real connection with audiences worldwide.
“People still come up to me while in Scotland and tell me they are here because they watched Scottish films such as Braveheart or Highlander.
“And what is wonderful is that the films are only the starting point. They then form a strong connection with the real country– it may be because of their ancestors or the feeling they get while they’re here. That stays with them.”
Gordon Smith, VisitScotland regional director, said: “It’s clear to see why Ayrshire and Arran attracts film scouts looking to capture our amazing scenery, heritage and culture for global audiences.
“The resulting interest when these films hit the big screen not only boosts the local economy in the short-term but can provide an ongoing presence in popular culture – and streaming services – that can continue to reach new audiences and lead to visits long after a film’s release.
“As we celebrate Scotland’s Year of Stories, our new-look Set in Scotland will hopefully inspire visitors to explore Ayrshire and Arran far beyond the film sets, and experience the people, the places, the history and culture, that have inspired many big screen storytellers.”
The 52-page guide features more than 150 films which have been shot entirely or partially in Scotland – 46 more than the previous version first published in 2015 – and details more than 100 film locations.
Ayrshire filming locations
The Wicker Man (1973) – The clifftop surrounding Culzean Castle is the initial meeting point for dogged police officer Sergeant Neil Howie and the cold-hearted Lord Summerisle in this 70s horror classic.
The Governess (1998) – The Isle of Arran doubles for the Isle of Skye in this British period drama starring Minnie Driver who changes her name and escapes to the Highlands to work for a wealthy family on Skye. The Cavendish family home seen in the film is Brodick Castle.
The Flying Scotsman (2006) – In East Ayrshire, the town of Galston was one of the main filming locations for The Flying Scotsman which stars Jonny Lee Miller as local cycling hero Graeme Obree.
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