If you’re wondering “Where was Anemone filmed?” – you’re in the right place.
The movie Anemone (2025) is not just any family drama; it’s Daniel Day-Lewis’s big return to acting, directed by his son Ronan Day-Lewis. The film dives deep into the struggles of brothers, fathers, and sons in late 1980s Northern England.
But here’s the fun part 👉 although the story is set in Northern England, the cameras rolled across Manchester, Chester (Handbridge), and Anglesey in Wales.
Now let’s take a trip to the exact places where the movie was shot (and yes, you can actually visit them!).
Anemone Filming Locations
| Location | 🎬 Role in the Film | 🌟 Why It Works / What You’ll Find |
|---|---|---|
| Manchester, UK 🏙️ | Main city backdrop | Industrial streets, Victorian buildings, football culture, buzzing nightlife |
| Handbridge, Chester 🚗 | Suburban exteriors with 1980s cars | Historic streets, Roman walls, cozy pubs, River Dee walks |
| Pentraeth Forest, Anglesey, Wales 🌲 | Woodland & rural scenes | Quiet forest hikes, coastal views, wildlife like red squirrels 🐿️ |

🎥 Manchester, Greater Manchester, UK
The movie started filming in Manchester – and it’s easy to see why. The city has a raw, industrial edge that perfectly mirrors the late 1980s setting.
- Why filmmakers chose it: Manchester mixes Victorian-style streets with a gritty, working-class vibe. Perfect for a family drama about past scars.
- What you can do there:
- Explore the Northern Quarter (amazing street art & coffee shops ☕).
- Visit Manchester Museum for history.
- Catch a football game ⚽ at Old Trafford or Etihad Stadium.

🚗 Handbridge, Chester, Cheshire
One of the coolest filming moments happened here – when the crew parked 1980s period cars on the streets, locals thought they had traveled back in time!
- Why it fits the film: Handbridge has a classic suburban look mixed with historical vibes. It feels like a timeless English neighborhood.
- What you can do there:
- Walk along the River Dee for calm views.
- Check out Chester’s Roman walls – they’ve been standing for nearly 2,000 years!
- Grab a pint in one of the cozy local pubs 🍻.
🌲 Pentraeth Forest, Anglesey (Wales)
If Manchester gave the movie grit and Chester gave it charm, then Anglesey gave it mystery. The forest scenes here set the emotional tone of the movie.
- Why filmmakers chose it: Pentraeth Forest is isolated, moody, and cinematic – perfect for tense family drama scenes.
- What you can do there:
- Hike through peaceful woodland trails.
- Visit Red Wharf Bay nearby – stunning coastal views 🌊.
- Spot rare red squirrels 🐿️ that live in the forest.
🗓️ When Did Filming Take Place?
- Start: October 1, 2024 in Manchester
- Early October 2024: Handbridge (Chester) suburban shoots
- October 2024: Anglesey forest filming with Daniel Day-Lewis & Sean Bean
The whole shoot wrapped in just a few weeks, keeping that 1980s atmosphere tight and consistent.
Final Thoughts 💭
Anemone (2025) isn’t just about family conflict – it’s also about the landscapes that shaped the story.
- Manchester gave the film its industrial heart.
- Chester (Handbridge) brought in authentic suburban nostalgia.
- Anglesey added haunting beauty and emotional depth.
And the best part? You don’t need to just watch these places on screen – you can actually visit them in real life.
Whether it’s catching a game in Manchester, walking Roman walls in Chester, or hiking Anglesey’s forest trails, you’ll experience the world that shaped Anemone.
So next time you watch the movie, remember – those aren’t just sets. They’re real places waiting for you to explore. 🌍✨
FAQs
Where was Anemone filmed?
In Manchester, Handbridge (Chester), and Pentraeth Forest (Anglesey, Wales).
Why did the filmmakers choose these spots?
Manchester’s industrial vibe, Chester’s suburban feel, and Anglesey’s moody forests fit the late-1980s setting perfectly.
Can fans visit the filming locations?
Yes! All three are public spots. You can explore Manchester city life, Chester’s historic streets, and Anglesey’s coastal forests.
When did Anemone filming take place?
From October 1, 2024, through October 2024 across England & Wales.
When does Anemone release?
World Premiere at NYFF 2025, U.S. limited release Oct 3, 2025, wide release Oct 10, 2025.