Curse Of The Cult Classic: The Saltburn Estate

Pictures via Amazon Prime

For a time, the location of Saltburn remained a closely guarded secret, a testament to both the allure and the downside of the internet. In today's digital landscape, very little remains private, and there are those, much like myself, who thrive off the thrill of the hunt. The Saltburn Estate, it turned out, was the perfect mystery to uncover and discover.

Thanks to the relentless resources the internet provides, (god bless you, thank you, I’ve literally made a living off you many times over) secrets rarely stay secret for long. as the estate's owner soon discovered. Drayton House, a 700-year-old mansion nestled in privacy, occasionally opened its doors to the public for special events, albeit sparingly. Fortunately for Emerald Fennel, her connections proved invaluable; her parents happened to be friends with the owner, Charles Stopford Sackville. Swayed by a hefty location hire fee, Mr. Sackville reluctantly agreed to host the production, fully aware of the exorbitant costs associated with maintaining such a grand estate.

Yet, despite the allure of stately homes and the fantasies they evoke, the reality of the financial burden they impose is often overlooked. As we get lost scrolling through real estate listings and dream of owning such properties, we seldom consider the astronomical utility bills and upkeep expenses that accompany them. Charles's pragmatic acceptance of the production deal was a testament to this reality. As he remarked to the Daily Mail, "These houses don’t run on water," indeed, they do not.

However, the estate's newfound notoriety came at a cost. A viral post on TikTok exposed the true identity of the Saltburn Estate, including its precise location. As the film attained cult classic status, fans descended upon the scene, eager to relive moments from the movie and catch a glimpse of the once-secretive estate. Emerald Fennel's choice of Drayton House as a filming location stemmed from her desire for authenticity; she believed that a place as unreal as Saltburn had to feel real, and such a mansion provided the perfect backdrop for her story.

While the success of the film was undoubtedly gratifying, it came with unintended consequences for the owner. The influx of visitors disrupted the tranquillity of the grounds, turning what was once a private retreat into a tourist hotspot. As the owner of A Beautiful Place To Get Lost Location Agency, I deeply value the privacy of property owners, understanding that their homes are more than just settings; they are havens of personal life. Having navigated firsthand the complexities of managing a location thrust into the spotlight, I comprehend the intricate balance needed to capitalize on the financial opportunities of hosting productions while respecting the sanctity of residential life. Unlike private estates with expansive grounds, this particular location was situated on a residential street, surrounded by neighbours whose peace and privacy also required consideration and respect. While the exposure from featuring in a beloved film is undoubtedly rewarding, the sudden surge of attention can pose challenges, especially in maintaining harmony with the surrounding community.

For property owners considering renting out their spaces for productions, it's essential to weigh the potential benefits against the inevitable drawbacks. While the allure of the fame and potential fortune may be enticing, it's crucial to consider the long-term impact on both the property and the people who reside not only there but nearby.

If you’re thinking about listing your property for private hire we cover things to consider in our Location e-Book and if you’re thinking about hiring out a Period Property for your next production, we have plenty to pick from.