'Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale' Including scenes filmed locally Ritz Cinema, Thirsk...

As the latest in the Downton Abbey franchise is released readers may remember in the last film 'Downton Abbey: A New Era' there was a slightly surreal moment when Thirsk and cinema feature.

The storyline included the theme of movie-making on the cusp of the move from silent film to the talkies.

Two of the cast take a trip to 'Thirsk' to see a new film at the cinema. Unfortunately the visit wasn't actually to Thirsk and the cinema wasn't The Ritz.

The story is based (at least in theory) in our area but the filming mainly takes place in the south.

Rather a shame and a missed opportunity as the Ritz's history mirrors that shown in the last film and we still have features of that era - a balcony as well as the ground floor and we retain some period details including plasterwork, panels and vents...even a fire hose.

Naturally we contrast these with all the mod cons such as multiplex style seating, a large wide screen and Dolby surround sound.

But wait - now in the new film they have actually been on location in Thirsk! The latest film in the series is about to hit the big screen Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale includes filming at Thirsk Hall and in Kirkgate - film crews were spotted there last year.

This is the first time the real Thirsk has appeared as the Crawley's local town.

Other locations used nearby include Ripon Racecourse and The Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate.

The new film follows the Crawley family and their staff as they navigate the 1930s, facing challenges like social scandal and financial difficulties.




















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