Actor David Tennant lit up both the screen and a Somerset’s estate during the filming of Disney+’s new hit series Rivals.

Sat two miles north Frome, the 500-acre Orchardleigh Estate estate, with its three-mile drive, golf course and belvedere is typically used as an events venue, though it played a starring role as a setting in the highly anticipated adaptation of Jilly Cooper’s novel.

Filmed during the summer of 2023, the show brought a touch of stardom to Orchardleigh Estate as the cast and crew, led by Tennant, transformed its landscapes into scenes of drama and intrigue.

Set in the 1980’s, the show sees David Tennant play Lord Tony Baddingham, who has a rivalry with fictional MP and Minister for Sport Rupert Campbell-Black, played by Alex Hassell, as the two men vie for control of Baddingham’s TV company Corinium.

The estate’s versatility made it a great choice for key scenes, and the team at Orchardleigh Estate are thrilled with how its beauty translates on screen.

Chris Vincent, owner of Orchardleigh Estate, said: “Having David Tennant and the production team at Orchardleigh was a great experience. Watching them bring Jilly Cooper’s story to life against the backdrop of our grounds was a real highlight for us. We’ve since watched the show, and found it hugely entertaining, and we’re delighted to have been a part of it.”

Rivals has received strong critical acclaim, currently possessing a 94 per cent rating on review aggregator site Rotten Tomato, giving fans hope that a second series will be on the way. The staff at Orchardleigh are happy to welcome the cast and crew back.

Chris Vincent added: “If a second season is announced, we’d be thrilled to host the team again. It’s been an unforgettable experience, and we’d love to see Orchardleigh shine once more on screen.”

Rivals isn’t the first well-known TV show to be captured at Orchardleigh, with Tess of the D’Ubervilles, Into the Storm and Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple: 4:50 from Paddington also filmed at the Somerset estate.

In addition to its role as a filming location, Orchardleigh Estate is renowned for its exclusive weddings, luxury stays, and wellness retreats, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the estate's cinematic charm.

For more information or to arrange a visit, please contact Orchardleigh Estate or visit their website at www.orchardleigh.net.