Monty Python and the Holy Grail was largely filmed on location in Scotland, utilising historical sites and breathtaking scenery as the backdrop to the farcical and surreal humour. People can still enjoy travelling to Scotland to see the film locations and even recreate their favourite scenes.
Here are a list of some of the most famous locations from the film.
Doune Castle
This was the scene of many unforgettable moments, such as the the French Taunters and the Wedding Scene at Swamp Castle. Fortunately, the castle has not sunk into a swamp! As well as Monty Python, the castle was also used as the Winterfell location in Game of Thrones, and in Outlander.
The scene of the Great Hall with the knights of the round table singing and dancing when they’re able is filmed inside Doune Castle.
Dumyat Hill
The scenes of the army of King Arthur drawn up for battle at the end of Monty Python and the Holy Grail were filmed near Bridge of Allen close to Dumyat Hill. Many of the extras playing the troops were students from the nearby University of Stirling. The hill is also the location for an annual hill race.
Bridge of Allan was first seen on-screen in Outlander, episode 5.02, ‘Between Two Fires’ when Murtagh and fellow Regulators meet and talk with the two prisoners broken out by Jamie.
An army amasses to attack Castle Aaaarrrggghhh but the police will intervene to spoil it.
Arnhall Castle
A Famous Historian gets decapitated while standing outside a tree filled ruin. Filmed at Arnhall Castle, located between Doune and Dunblane, Stirling.
Tomnadashan Mine, Loch Tay
The Cave of Caerbannog, infamous lair of the “Killer Rabbit”, can be found at the site of an abandoned mine nearby the village of Killin.
History: During the 20th Century, John Campbell, 2nd Marquis of Breadalbane excavated the mine, searching for a fortune in gold and copper. You might still be able to see traces of copper in the walls of the mine, but unfortunately no evidence of gold.
The site is not a visitor attraction, but is accessible through a gate. You can walk up to the mine and take pictures outside. Be careful if you are wishing to enter the mine though as it is deep and there may be loose stone.
Glen Coe
With its majestic mountains rising on either side, this is the perfect location for an epic scene. This was the location of the Bridge of Death, seen near the end of the film. As well as Monty Python, the glen has also been used for a number of films in the Harry Potter series (the site of Hagrid’s Hut, the Forbidden Forest and various outdoor shots of Hogwarts can be seen, though the sets have been removed).
History: Glen Coe is perhaps most well-known for the massacre that occurred here in 1692, when members of Clan MacDonald were murdered by a group who had accepted their hospitality. The reason for the killing is said to be the unwillingness of the MacDonald’s to accept the new monarchs William and Mary.
The drive through Glen Coe follows the A82 with the village of Glen Coe at the north western end by the shores of Loch Leven.
Bracklin Falls, Callander
These waterfalls just north of the popular tourist town of Callander, along the walk known as the Callander Crags, are formed where the earth crosses the Highland Boundary Fault (the geographic distinction between the highlands and lowlands). A new 20m wood and copper footbridge was placed across the gorge in 2010, replacing the previous bridge which had been brought down in a storm. The walk up to Bracklin falls is easily accessed. Find more information about the walk here: https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/lochlomond/callander-craig.shtml
“Get on with it!”
Sherriff Muir, Stirling
Further Afield:
Castle Stalker
The final castle seen in the film, at the end of their long quest. Built around 1320, this castle sits in a striking location in Loch Laich. The castle is privately owned, running a number of tours every year.
Please check this site for details
