Exploring Where Call the Midwife Was Filmed: A Look at the Real-Life Locations

Introduction

Call the Midwife is a critically acclaimed British drama that debuted on BBC One in 2012. The show follows the lives of a group of midwives in London’s East End during the 1950s and 1960s. It has been praised for its accurate portrayal of the era and has become one of the most popular shows in the UK.

This article takes an in-depth look at the real-life locations used for filming the television series “Call the Midwife”. It explores the historical context of the filming locations and provides a tour of the key sites used in the show. It also looks at the behind the scenes processes used to bring the 1950s London setting to life.

Exploring the Real-Life Locations of Call the Midwife

The show was filmed in various locations throughout London, including the East End, Chatham Historic Dockyard, and the Royal Naval College. These locations were chosen for their historical accuracy and ability to create an authentic 1950s atmosphere.

The East End of London is known for its rich history and has been home to many different cultures over the centuries. It was the birthplace of Jack the Ripper and the site of the notorious Kray Twins’ gang. In the 1950s, it was a bustling area full of industry, poverty, and crime.

Chatham Historic Dockyard is located in Kent, England, and is the largest maritime museum in Europe. It was once home to the world’s largest wooden warship. The dockyard was used as a filming location for several scenes in the show, including the birth of a baby in a boat shed.

Nonnatus House is a fictional convent in the show and was created using a combination of two real-life locations. The exterior is based on a former convent in East London, while the interior was shot at a disused hospital in West London. The convent is home to the midwives and serves as a base for them throughout the series.

The Royal Naval College is located in Greenwich, London, and is a former naval college. It was founded in 1694 and served as a training ground for officers until 1998. The college features prominently in the show, with scenes set both inside and outside the building.

A Tour of the Filming Locations of Call the Midwife

Poplar, East End of London – This area of London was used extensively for filming the show. Streets and alleyways were recreated to create an authentic 1950s London atmosphere. The area was also used for several outdoor scenes, such as when the midwives go out on calls.

Chatham Historic Dockyard – This dockyard was used for several scenes in the show, including the birth of a baby in a boat shed. The dockyard is home to historic ships and buildings, which provided a perfect backdrop for the show.

Nonnatus House – This fictional convent was created using a combination of two real-life locations. The exterior is based on a former convent in East London, while the interior was shot at a disused hospital in West London. The convent is home to the midwives and serves as a base for them throughout the series.

The Royal Naval College – This former naval college was used for several scenes in the show, both inside and outside the building. Its grand architecture provided a perfect backdrop for the show.

Behind the Scenes: Uncovering the Secrets of Where Call the Midwife Was Filmed

To make the show as realistic as possible, the producers conducted extensive research into the period. They interviewed people who had lived through the 1950s and consulted experts in order to ensure accuracy. They also went to great lengths to recreate the settings, from sourcing original furniture to using period clothing.

The production team also conducted extensive location scouting in order to find the perfect sites for filming. They traveled all over London, visiting churches, hospitals, and other landmarks in search of the perfect setting. They even visited the actual convent where the exterior of Nonnatus House was based on.

In addition to researching and scouting, the production team employed a range of filming techniques to create the desired atmosphere. They used natural light to create a softer, more muted look and chose to film in 4:3 aspect ratio, which was common in the 1950s. They also used hand-held cameras and long lenses to give the show a sense of realism.

Take a Trip Through Time to Discover Where Call the Midwife Was Filmed

The show was praised for its historical accuracy and attention to detail. Every effort was made to recreate the atmosphere of 1950s London, from the costumes and sets to the language used by the actors. The show’s creators even consulted experts in midwifery to ensure that the medical scenes were accurate.

The show also featured a range of locations that accurately reflected the period. From the slums of the East End to the grandeur of the Royal Naval College, the show was able to capture the essence of 1950s London.

Revisiting the Sites of Call the Midwife: A Look at Where It Was Filmed

Fans of the show can visit the actual locations used for filming. There are several tours available that take visitors to the East End, Chatham Historic Dockyard, and the Royal Naval College. Visitors can also explore Nonnatus House and get a glimpse of the midwives’ home.

There are also special tours available that focus on the show’s filming locations. These tours provide an in-depth look at where the show was filmed and offer an insight into the process of bringing the 1950s London setting to life.

Conclusion

Call the Midwife is an acclaimed British drama that was filmed in various locations throughout London. These locations were chosen for their historical accuracy and ability to create an authentic 1950s atmosphere. The production team conducted extensive research and location scouting to ensure accuracy and authenticity, and used a range of filming techniques to bring the 1950s London setting to life.

Visitors can revisit the sites of Call the Midwife and take a trip through time to discover where it was filmed. Special tours are available that provide an in-depth look at the show’s filming locations, offering an insight into the process of bringing the 1950s London setting to life.

The show has been praised for its accurate portrayal of the era and has become one of the most popular shows in the UK. Fans of the show can now explore the actual locations used for filming and get a glimpse into the world of midwifery in 1950s London.