Inside The Lavish Locations Of ‘The Gilded Age’: From Newport To Sidmouth

Fans of high society drama, grand staircases, and social scheming have plenty to feast on in the latest season of “The Gilded Age.” Created by Julian Fellowes (“Downton Abbey”), the HBO series dives deeper into the tension between New York’s old money elite and the brash new fortunes rising up around them. Season two premiered on HBO and is available to stream on Max, continuing the saga of Bertha Russell’s social climb and Marian Brook’s quiet rebellion against convention.

Like its characters, the show’s filming locations are about status and spectacle. From glittering ballrooms in Newport to cobblestone streets in Troy, New York, “The Gilded Age” brings the opulence of the late 1800s to life using real historic landmarks. While many interiors were shot in actual mansions, exteriors and street scenes required carefully chosen stand-ins to capture the grandeur of Gilded Age New York without the modern-day clutter.

What Is Sidmouth Famous For?

Sidmouth lies along the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its striking red Triassic cliffs and fossil-rich beaches. The town’s dramatic geology and sheltered microclimate make it a stunning coastal escape. Culturally, Sidmouth is best known for the Sidmouth Folk Festival, a week-long celebration of traditional music and dance that has drawn performers and visitors from around the world since the 1950s.

With its timeless elegance and coastal charm, it’s no wonder the creators of “The Gilded Age” chose Sidmouth to represent European aristocratic life. The renowned poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning lived in Sidmouth in the 1830s and composed works inspired by the town. As a child, Princess (future Queen) Victoria also holidayed here, staying at Woolbrook Cottage, now the Royal Glen Hotel, alongside her parents.

Where Was Sidmouth Castle Filmed?

In “The Gilded Age” season three, the dramatic estate known as Sidmouth Castle, home to Gladys Russell and the Duke of Buckingham, is actually a clever cinematic illusion rather than a real location. According to Country File, the production team combined multiple estates in Newport, Rhode Island and Long Island to create the castle’s interiors and exteriors. Those sweeping carriage approach shots, captured in the English countryside, likely around Sidmouth. Visual effects were added to blend these landscapes with grand American mansions to give the impression of an aristocratic English estate.

Newport, Rhode Island

Key Scenes: Newport serves as the backbone of the show’s wealth and extravagance. According to Elle Decor, the ballroom scenes where Bertha makes her boldest social plays were filmed at The Breakers, a Vanderbilt mansion that perfectly reflects her ambition.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Newport is between late spring and early fall, when the coastal weather is mild and most of the mansions are open for tours. Summer brings lively events, garden parties and even music festivals hosted at the estates.

Transportation Options: Newport is about 90 minutes south of Boston by car and roughly three hours from New York City. There’s limited public transit, so a car is the best way to explore. Seasonal ferries from Providence and scenic coastal drives add to the charm of getting there.

The real-life “cottages” of Newport, like The Elms and The Breakers, were actually summer mansions for America’s wealthiest families, including the Vanderbilts. Many interior shots for “The Gilded Age” were filmed on location, giving viewers a peek inside genuine Gilded Age opulence.

Things to Do: Between touring filming locations, visitors can wander the Cliff Walk, which offers stunning ocean views alongside the backs of some of Newport’s most famous mansions. History lovers can tour multiple homes through the Preservation Society of Newport County, which offers audio guides and behind-the-scenes insights. For a more relaxed outing, stroll through Thames Street’s boutique shops or visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

Where to Eat: Start your day with brunch or sunset dinner at The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn, which overlooks the bay and delivers refined New England fare. For seafood with a sense of history, The Black Pearl on Bannister’s Wharf is a local favorite, known for its clam chowder. If you prefer something stylish and seasonal, Stoneacre Brasserie offers creative takes on regional cuisine in a chic, cozy setting.

Where to Stay: For luxury, Castle Hill Inn provides unmatched ocean views and a peaceful setting just outside downtown. The Chanler at Cliff Walk offers refined, historic charm right on the coast, with rooms themed after different European styles. For something centrally located and still elegant, Hotel Viking is a classic choice within walking distance of the mansions and downtown shops.

Troy, New York

Key Scenes: Troy’s remarkably preserved 19th-century architecture made it an ideal stand-in for Gilded Age Manhattan. Many scenes showing horse-drawn carriages on cobblestone streets were filmed around Washington Park and River Street, giving life to the daily comings and goings of characters like Marian Brook and Peggy Scott. 

Best Time to Visit: Fall is particularly stunning in upstate New York, with colorful foliage and crisp weather that suits the period architecture. Spring is also pleasant, with fewer tourists and plenty of small-town charm.

Transportation Options: Troy is about 15 minutes from Albany International Airport, and the nearby Albany-Rensselaer Amtrak Station connects the area to New York City. Once in Troy, the downtown is walkable, especially around the main historic filming zones.

Downtown Troy’s architecture is so well-preserved that it often doubles as 19th-century New York in period dramas. Other productions that have set up shop in the area include “The Age of Innocence,” “Scent of a Woman,” “Motherless Brooklyn,” and “The Emperor’s Club.” For many of the show’s street scenes, its historic facades were transformed into Fifth Avenue, complete with horse-drawn carriages.

Things to Do: Visitors can explore the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market on Saturdays for a lively local experience, or take a guided walking tour through Washington Park and the surrounding historic homes. Architecture fans will appreciate the detail in the old storefronts and churches, many of which were featured in the show. The Hart Cluett Museum also provides context for the town’s role in American industrial and social history.

Where to Eat: Grab a casual bite at Peck’s Arcade, a modern bistro known for seasonal small plates and inventive cocktails. Little Pecks, their sister café, offers excellent coffee and pastries for a morning pick-me-up. For something classic, Lo Porto serves hearty Italian fare in a cozy, old-school atmosphere near the historic district.

Where to Stay: Best Western Plus Franklin Square Inn offers clean, comfortable lodging just steps from Monument Square. For something more boutique, Gardner Farm Inn is a charming B&B located just a short drive from downtown, perfect for travelers looking to soak up Troy’s period feel. Hilton Garden Inn Troy is another reliable option close to filming locations.

Tarrytown, New York

Key Scenes: The gothic beauty of Lyndhurst Mansion in Tarrytown served as Aurora Fane’s home in multiple episodes. Its dark wood interiors and stone archways provided a dramatic contrast to Bertha Russell’s glitzy residence.

Best Time to Visit: Tarrytown is beautiful year-round, but the fall foliage makes it especially picturesque. Mansion tours are available throughout the year, with special candlelit and seasonal events in the winter.

Transportation Options: Tarrytown is easily accessible via Metro-North Railroad from Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan, with a ride taking about 45 minutes. From the train station, it’s a short taxi or rideshare to the Lyndhurst Estate and other filming locations.

Tarrytown’s Lyndhurst Mansion was used to portray Mrs. Astor’s palatial New York home in “The Gilded Age.” The Gothic Revival estate has appeared in everything from “The Age of Innocence” to “Winter’s Tale,” making it a go-to filming location for period dramas dripping in old money grandeur.

Things to Do: In addition to touring Lyndhurst Mansion, visitors can explore the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, home to Washington Irving’s grave. The Hudson River Walk offers stunning views of the Palisades and the Governor Mario Cuomo Bridge. Downtown Tarrytown features antique shops, indie bookstores and cafes that add to the town’s vintage atmosphere.

Where to Eat: Dine riverside at RiverMarket Bar and Kitchen, known for its fresh, seasonal menu and excellent views. Sweet Grass Grill is a great local option that emphasizes farm-to-table ingredients. For a fancier night out, Blue Hill at Stone Barns (about 15 minutes away) is one of the region’s most celebrated fine-dining restaurants.

Where to Stay: Stay close to the action at Tarrytown House Estate, a historic hotel with Hudson River views and vintage touches. Castle Hotel & Spa offers luxurious accommodations in a turreted 19th-century mansion. For convenience and comfort, SpringHill Suites by Marriott provides a modern stay near downtown and the train station.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sidmouth expensive?

Sidmouth can be pricier than other Devon towns, especially in peak travel season, thanks to its seaside charm and historic appeal. However, there are a range of accommodations and dining options to suit different budgets.

Why is Sidmouth called Sidmouth?

The town gets its name from the River Sid, which flows into the English Channel at this point, making it literally the “mouth of the Sid.” The name dates back to at least the 11th century.

Is Sidmouth flat or hilly?

Sidmouth itself is fairly level near the seafront, making it walkable for most visitors. However, it’s surrounded by dramatic hills and coastal cliffs, like Salcombe Hill and Peak Hill, which offer stunning views but can be steep to climb.

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