Netflix Drama House of Guinness Filmed at Penrhyn Castle in Bangor
A Welsh castle is gaining fame as the new family home for the Guinness clan in the Netflix drama House of Guinness. Penrhyn Castle in Bangor, Gwynedd, is stepping into the spotlight as the setting for the tumultuous story of the brewing dynasty’s heirs, following the death of Sir Benjamin Guinness in 1868.
The 19th Century castle, nestled on the Menai Strait in Snowdonia, boasts stunning Norman-style architecture, making it the perfect backdrop for the period drama. Created by Peaky Blinders mastermind Steven Knight and starring James Norton, the series delves into the challenges faced by the Guinness siblings as they inherit the world’s largest brewery.
Although the show is set in 19th Century Dublin and New York, Penryn Castle was chosen for its striking resemblance to the original family home of Ashford Castle in Ireland. Both castles were constructed to embody an older aesthetic, reflecting the wealth amassed by industrialists during the Victorian era.
Filming for House of Guinness took place in various locations across north Wales and England’s North West, as the producers scouted for the perfect setting to bring the story to life. The team traveled far and wide before settling on stately homes and Dublin-inspired streets that evoked the bygone era of the Guinness family.
Penrhyn Castle’s role in the series aligns with its rich history as a symbol of wealth and social upheaval. Managed by the National Trust Cymru, the castle’s opulent interiors and art collection stand as a testament to Wales’ legacy of sugar and slate fortunes, as well as its intricate ties to the history of slavery.
As House of Guinness unfolds on Netflix, viewers can immerse themselves in the gripping saga of a family thrust into the spotlight of brewing success. The blend of fact and fiction promises to captivate audiences, drawing comparisons to hit shows like Succession and The Crown. So, settle in and discover the fascinating world of the Guinness family, brought to life against the backdrop of the majestic Penrhyn Castle.