Next stop Hollywood!26th August 2026
EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY TAKES CENTRE STAGE IN PRACTICAL MAGIC 2
The Epping Ongar Railway, a historic fixture of the Essex countryside for over 160 years, has cemented its status as a premier filming location with its starring role in the highly anticipated film Practical Magic 2.
(L-R) NICOLE KIDMAN as Gillian Owens and SANDRA BULLOCK as Sally Owens in Practical Magic 2, a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
Photo Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures
The connection began on a rainy January afternoon in 2025, when Epping Ongar Railway Operations Manager Rob Bentley received an unexpected call from a location manager searching for a specific railway carriage for the sequel to the cult classic.
"I didn't really know what to expect at first," explained Rob. "We've had a fair bit of filming here on the railway over the years, but nothing quite as big as this production."
The production required both on-location shooting in Essex and studio filming. In a notable logistical feat, one of the railway's heritage carriages was transported to Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden to serve as a key set piece. Rob, who accompanied the carriage, reflected on the experience:
"It was the first time I'd ever been on a film set in a studio," he said. "It was an amazing experience. Everyone was incredibly friendly and focused on working together to create something special. It felt odd to see the carriage outside its usual setting, but I was proud that our heritage railway could contribute to such a big Hollywood film."
The movie’s railway scenes were filmed on a 1960s British Rail Mark 1 coach which is used on a day to day basis at the Epping Ongar Railway.
"We were the perfect fit for them in terms of what they wanted to film," said Bentley.
Visitors to the Epping Ongar Railway can now retrace the steps of the stars. "What's really cool is that you can sit in exactly the same seats where the stars sat in the film," said Robert. "I'm watching the trailer thinking, that’s our train.'"
First opened in 1865, the Epping Ongar Railway is a beautifully restored heritage line known for its authentic period atmosphere, vintage rolling stock, and historic stations like North Weald and Ongar. It has become a sought-after location for major productions, including the Netflix comedy Man vs Baby and the BBC’s Death in Paradise Christmas Special.
Upcoming Events
With a packed programme of events still to come this year, there are plenty of opportunities to visit the Epping Ongar Railway. Its ever popular Santa Specials transform the railway into a festive experience for families.
Meanwhile, for anyone interested in the chance to discover what goes on behind the scenes, the railway is holding a Volunteer Open Day on Saturday 12 September, from 10am to 1pm - email enquiries@eorailway.co.uk to find out more.
Practical Magic 2 opens in cinemas on 18 September 2026.