The Netflix hit series “The Great British Baking Show” (also known in the UK as “The Great British Bake Off”) brings together amateur bakers, expert judges like Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith and charming hosts such as Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond. The show is filmed in a friendly but fierce competition filled with signature bakes, technical challenges and showstopper moments. The series evokes cozy vibes of tea tents, bunting and home-baked delights with big personalities. But where, exactly, are the “Great British Baking Show” filming locations?
Can You Visit Where ‘The Great British Baking Show’ Is Filmed?
Yes, you absolutely can visit the heart of “The Great British Baking Show” in Berkshire. As reported by Country & Town House, the iconic white tent has sat on the grounds of Welford Park in Berkshire since 2014. It features a manor house and green estate setting. The tent itself is erected only for filming and is not open to public tours. But the estate grounds are open to visitors during certain times—especially during, according to National World.
Where Do ‘The Great British Baking Show’ Contestants Stay During Filming?
Key Scenes: Set in the village of Welford near Newbury in Berkshire, the estate’s sweeping grounds and manor house served as the backdrop for many seasons of “The Great British Baking Show.” As noted by Entertainment Weekly, the first season of the series pitched its tent in multiple locations. These include Cornwall, Kent, Derbyshire and as far away as Scotland.
Best Time to Visit: If you like spring blossoms and mild temperatures, visiting Welford Park during snowdrop season (typically January to early March) offers a quieter experience, and the estate opens to the public. For broader sightseeing and nearby attractions, late spring (May) to early autumn (September) brings pleasant weather and longer daylight. If you prefer avoiding crowds, aim for mid-week stays in the shoulder seasons (April or October). But if you prefer crisp countryside walks around the filming estate, autumn works nicely.
Transportation Options: Renting a car gives you the most flexibility. You can drive from London (about two hours west without traffic) to Welford, explore the estate and then continue to Windsor Castle or Ascot. For public transport, take a 90-minute train from London Paddington to Newbury, then a short taxi or Uber to Welford Park. One tip: roads around rural Berkshire can be narrow and sometimes busy during race days at Ascot. So, factor in extra time if you travel by car.
According to People, contestants on the show typically stay at a nearby hotel during the weekends of filming. They travel via minibus each competition day to the tent in Welford Park (or the alternative filming estate used during the pandemic, as per Vanity Fair). This setup allows the filming team to operate with a two-day schedule. The signature and technical challenges are often on the same day, followed by the showstopper the next. The contestants do not stay in the tent; instead, they return to the hotel and continue with their normal lodging arrangements.
Things to Do: After a walk around Welford Park’s grounds, you can head to Windsor and tour Windsor Castle – one of the oldest inhabited castles in the world. Then drive or take a short ride to Legoland Windsor Resort for a fun family-friendly day of rides and themed entertainment. For a more adult outing, visit Ascot Racecourse for a day at the races (if timed right) or simply explore the surrounding countryside walking trails in the Lambourn Woodlands.
Where to Eat: Start with a hearty country pub near Welford Park. The nearby village often has classic British fare, pies and local ale. In Windsor, try riverside restaurants with views of the castle and the Thames, offering seasonal menus and relaxed ambiance. For something truly memorable, reserve a table at one of the fine dining spots around Ascot, where you’ll find inventive cuisine using local Berkshire produce.
Where to Stay: Consider a charming country hotel or manor-house accommodation in the village of Welford or nearby Hermitage. They’re elegant, tranquil and close to the estate. In Windsor, you’ll find boutique hotels that give you easy access to castle visits and the town nightlife. If you prefer one base for exploring everything, select a hotel in Newbury. It places you within easy reach of Welford Park, Windsor and Ascot. For a luxe stay, Ascot itself offers premium hotels used by race-day crowds. Book early if your trip coincides with weekend events (especially at Ascot), as lodging fills up fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is “The Great British Baking Show” filmed in one day?
No, filming for the series typically spans around 10-12 days. Each episode is recorded over two days. One day for the signature and technical challenges and a second day for the showstopper.
Do contestants get paid on “The Great British Baking Show”?
No, contestants do not receive payment for appearing on the show, and there is no cash prize for winning. They receive publicity, experience and the prized cake stand. But the financial benefit comes afterwards in book deals or media opportunities.
Who is the richest “Bake Off: contestant?
According to available reports, Nadiya Hussain (winner of 2015) ranks as one of the richest “Bake Off” alumni. She has an estimated net worth of around £3.7 million, thanks to TV shows, books and media work.
