9 Amazing Places to Visit Inspired by the Movie Me Before You
“Me Before You” is an endearing film depicting the romance between young Louisa Clark, who becomes the caretaker of Will Traynor, a wealthy man left quadriplegic after a tragic accident.
Released in 2016, the movie, adapted from Jojo Moyes’ book, unfolds in various stunning locations, each possessing its unique charm and allure.
Let’s delve into some of the captivating places featured in the movie that warrant a visit!
9 Amazing Places to Visit Inspired by the Movie Me Before You
1. Pembroke Castle
Pembroke Castle stands as a medieval fortress nestled in the heart of Pembroke, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
This majestic structure, dating back to the 12th century, boasts a rich history, including being the birthplace of King Henry VII.
In the film, the castle serves as a backdrop to significant moments, with Will reminiscing about its significance in his childhood, as we see the two of them strolling around the outside of the grand castle.
The streets of the town of Pembroke were also shown in the movie.
2. Playa Formentor
Playa Formentor, situated in Pollença, Mallorca, Spain, offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The scenes depicting the luxurious getaway in the movie were filmed at The Formentor, a renowned hotel frequented by celebrities like Jack Nicholson and Michael Douglas.
In the movie, Lou and Will take a romantic trip, supposedly to Mauritius, but Mallorca is the real location.
Pollença has an elegant marina, chic restaurants, and narrow, charming streets.
3. Sandown Park
Sandown Park in Esher, Surrey, England, sets the stage for a horse race outing in the film, providing a glimpse into British culture and the excitement of race day.
Sandown Park is the racecourse where Lou takes Nate and Will in an attempt to cheer Will up.
The place is busy and full of life, offering regular horse races and being used to host large events such as fairs and exhibitions.
The scene shows a bit of British culture of betting on horses, although Lou and the boys were not so lucky on that occasion.
4. St Michael’s Church
St Michael’s Church of England, located in Rickmansworth, UK, serves as the venue for a poignant wedding ceremony in the movie.
The church is an old and imposing building with colorful stained glass windows and a decorated altar.
The scene in the movie shows Lou accompanying Will to the wedding ceremony of his ex-girlfriend to his best friend, before the reception party.
5. Chenies Manor House
Chenies Manor House, nestled in Buckinghamshire, England, boasts a rich history dating back to the 15th century.
Its picturesque setting and historic charm make it a popular destination for visitors and special events.
Chenies Manor House is a beautiful country house located in the village of Chenies, in Buckinghamshire.
The historic house is one of the country’s hidden treasures, with fascinating and impressive architecture.
Today, the house is open to the public, with visitors able to explore the historic rooms, the chapel, and the beautifully manicured gardens.
6. Wytham Abbey
Wytham Abbey, a grand mansion nestled in Oxfordshire, England, serves as the Traynor family’s residence in the film, symbolizing both wealth and isolation.
The mansion is a reflection of the Traynor family’s social and financial position, but it is also a place of isolation and loneliness for Will, who feels trapped in his own body.
The imposing old building conveys an air of grandeur and tradition, with its manicured gardens and impressive views of the surrounding countryside.
One of the most striking locations in the movie, Wytham Abbey is a private estate that hosts special events throughout the year.
7. Restaurant Paul
Lou’s visit to Paris leads her to Restaurant Paul on Place Dauphine, offering viewers a glimpse into the romantic allure of the French capital.
At the end of the movie, Lou visits Paris, following Will’s instructions and reading the letter he left her.
These are beautiful scenes in which Lou visits places that Will loved so much, with nostalgia but also with hope.
Lou is sitting in a restaurant and we hear Will’s words: “To be read at Cafe Marquis, Rue Des Francs Bourgeois, accompanied by croissants and a café crème.”
The scene was filmed in the traditional Restaurant Paul on Place Dauphine, one of the most beautiful squares in Paris.
Here is Restaurant Paul’s website:
http://www.restaurantpaul.fr/?lang=en
8. L’ARTISAN PARFUMEUR PARIS
Lou explores L’ARTISAN PARFUMEUR to experience the fragrance recommended by Will, immersing herself in the essence of Parisian charm.
After leaving the restaurant, Lou goes to L’ARTISAN PARFUMEUR to try the perfume that Will suggests in his letter.
The exact location of the shoot is 2 Rue de l’Amiral de Coligny, but it no longer houses the perfumery, which has several other addresses in the city.
The perfume that Will describes as being called something like “Papillons Extreme” is probably LA CHASSE AUX PAPILLONS EXTRÊME:
9. Pont Alexandre III
The iconic Pont Alexandre III in Paris marks the poignant conclusion of the film, encapsulating the beauty and symbolism of Lou’s journey.
Will promises to be by her side and asks Lou not to get too attached to her sadness and to “Just live well”.
We then see her crossing the best-known bridge in Paris: the Pont Alexandre III.
It is considered one of the most ornate and extravagant bridges in Paris and is featured in several films and videos, such as the film Midnight in Paris and the video for the song Someone Like You by Adele (2011).
The ending of the movie shows Lou crossing the bridge, as we hear the final words of Will’s letter.
Each location intricately woven into the narrative of “Me Before You” offers a glimpse into the characters’ lives and the breathtaking landscapes that inspire their story.
