From Hollywood to Hogwarts: The Ring of Kerry’s Secret Film Locations
Hello, John O’Connell here from Cork Luxury Travel.
After decades of driving the Ring of Kerry, I’ve come to realise something many visitors find fascinating: some of the landscapes we pass every day have been used in major films and TV productions.
Now, I’ll be straight with you. I’m not a film expert, and I won’t pretend to know every detail about what was filmed where. But what I can do is bring you to these locations, show you the scenery that caught filmmakers’ attention, and give you a local’s perspective on the places themselves.
If you enjoy films, or just want to see some of the most dramatic parts of Kerry, this is a great way to experience the Ring of Kerry.
A place that has always drawn storytellers
Long before film crews arrived, Kerry was a place of storytelling.
Writers, poets and travellers have been inspired by this landscape for generations. So it’s no surprise that filmmakers eventually followed.
What they found here is what visitors still experience today:
- rugged coastlines
- shifting light and weather
- quiet, remote locations
- and a sense of something timeless
You don’t need to be a film fan to appreciate it. But knowing that these places have appeared on screen adds another layer to the experience.
Charlie Chaplin and Waterville
One of the more personal connections to film history can be found in Waterville.
Here you’ll see a statue of Charlie Chaplin, who spent time holidaying in the area with his family from the late 1950s onwards.
Waterville is still a quiet seaside village, and that’s exactly what appealed to him. It’s the kind of place people come to switch off.
When we stop here, I can show you:
- the statue in the village
- the Butler Arms Hotel where he stayed
- the surrounding coastline and lake
It’s a simple stop, but one that gives a sense of how places like this have long attracted visitors looking for something genuine and unspoiled.
Star Wars and the Skelligs
One of the best-known filming locations in Kerry is Star Wars, which used Skellig Michael as a key location.
While you won’t drive onto the island itself, there are several points along the Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring where you can see it clearly from the mainland.
If you’d like, we can include:
- viewpoints overlooking the Skelligs
- a drive through Portmagee
- stops along the Skellig Ring, which many visitors miss
You don’t need to know the films to appreciate it. The scenery speaks for itself.
Classic films and the wider peninsula
Kerry has been used in films for decades.
You’ll find connections to films like:
Locations such as Inch Beach and parts of the Dingle Peninsula have featured because of their natural setting.
If these interest you, I can build them into your route. Even without the film connection, they’re some of the most impressive places you’ll see on your trip.
Places you might otherwise pass by
One thing to keep in mind is that most of these locations aren’t marked as “film sites”.
They’re just part of the landscape.
That’s where having a private driver makes a difference. We can:
- stop where it suits you
- take quieter roads
- spend more time in places you enjoy
Instead of rushing between set stops, the day is shaped around your interests.
What I offer (and what I don’t)
I think it’s important to be clear. I won’t be giving detailed film analysis or behind-the-scenes commentary.
What I will do is:
- bring you to the locations comfortably and safely
- point out places with known film connections
- share local knowledge of the area
- build a relaxed, flexible day around you
For most visitors, that’s exactly what they’re looking for.
More than just film locations
What most people remember isn’t the film connection itself.
It’s:
- standing on a quiet beach
- looking out at the Atlantic
- stopping in a village for lunch
- or simply taking in the views without rushing
The film locations are just one part of that.
Planning your Ring of Kerry tour
If you’re thinking about touring this part of Ireland, you might find it helpful to read our guide:
👉 https://www.corkluxurytravel.com/answers-to-questions-about-touring-ireland-you-were-afraid-to-ask/
It covers practical questions many visitors have before they arrive.
Explore it your way
If you’d like to include some of these locations in your trip, I can plan a customised route that combines:
- the main highlights of the Ring of Kerry
- quieter viewpoints and stops
- and any film-related locations you’re interested in
There’s no fixed script. Just a well-planned day at your own pace.
A different way to see Kerry
Film crews came here because the landscape looks like nowhere else.
That hasn’t changed.
Whether you’re interested in the film connections or simply want to experience the scenery for yourself, the Ring of Kerry offers something that stays with people long after they leave.
Get in touch
If you’d like help planning your trip or want to include some of these locations in your tour, feel free to get in touch.
I’d be happy to put together a day that suits you.
