Where Did They Film Anne with an E: Exploring the Enigmatic Locations and Their Hidden Stories

blog 2025-01-17 0Browse 0
Where Did They Film Anne with an E: Exploring the Enigmatic Locations and Their Hidden Stories

“Anne with an E,” the beloved Netflix series based on Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic novel “Anne of Green Gables,” has captivated audiences worldwide with its heartfelt storytelling, rich characters, and breathtaking scenery. One of the most frequently asked questions about the show is: Where did they film Anne with an E? The answer lies in the picturesque landscapes of Canada, but the story behind the filming locations is as intriguing as the series itself. This article delves into the real-world settings of the show, their significance, and the creative decisions that brought Avonlea to life.


The Heart of Avonlea: Prince Edward Island and Beyond

The fictional town of Avonlea, where Anne Shirley’s adventures unfold, is deeply rooted in the charm of Prince Edward Island (PEI), the birthplace of Lucy Maud Montgomery. However, the series was not entirely filmed on PEI. Instead, the production team chose a mix of locations in Ontario and Nova Scotia to recreate the idyllic world of Anne.

1. Prince Edward Island: The Spiritual Home

While much of the filming took place off-island, PEI remains the spiritual and cultural heart of “Anne with an E.” The island’s rolling green hills, red sandstone cliffs, and serene beaches inspired Montgomery’s descriptions of Avonlea. Fans of the series often visit PEI to experience the real-life landscapes that shaped Anne’s world, such as the Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish, which served as the inspiration for the Cuthbert family’s farm.

2. Ontario: The Practical Choice

Due to logistical and budgetary considerations, much of the filming for “Anne with an E” took place in Ontario. The production team transformed several locations into the iconic settings of the show:

  • Millbrook, Ontario: This small town stood in for Avonlea, with its historic buildings and rural charm perfectly capturing the essence of a 19th-century farming community. The main street of Millbrook was meticulously dressed to reflect the period, complete with horse-drawn carriages and vintage storefronts.
  • Pickering, Ontario: The Greenwood Conservation Area in Pickering provided the lush, natural backdrop for many outdoor scenes, including Anne’s beloved “Haunted Wood” and “Lover’s Lane.”
  • Cobourg, Ontario: The town’s Victorian architecture and proximity to Lake Ontario made it an ideal location for scenes set in Charlottetown and other urban areas.

3. Nova Scotia: A Stand-In for PEI

Nova Scotia also played a significant role in the production, particularly for its coastal landscapes, which closely resemble those of PEI. The production team utilized locations such as:

  • Halifax: The city’s historic properties and waterfront areas were used for various scenes, including the bustling streets of Charlottetown.
  • Lawrencetown Beach: This scenic beach provided the perfect setting for Anne’s introspective moments by the sea.

The Magic of Set Design: Bringing Avonlea to Life

While the natural beauty of the filming locations provided a stunning foundation, the production team’s meticulous set design was crucial in creating the immersive world of “Anne with an E.” From the Cuthbert farmhouse to the Avonlea schoolhouse, every detail was carefully crafted to reflect the time period and the characters’ personalities.

1. Green Gables: A Home Full of Heart

The Cuthbert farmhouse, known as Green Gables, is one of the most iconic locations in the series. The exterior shots were filmed in Millbrook, Ontario, where a replica of the farmhouse was constructed. The interior sets, however, were built in a studio in Toronto, allowing for greater control over lighting and camera angles. The design team paid close attention to historical accuracy, using period-appropriate furniture, textiles, and decor to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

2. The Avonlea Schoolhouse: A Place of Learning and Growth

The schoolhouse, where Anne forms many of her early friendships and rivalries, was another key location. The exterior was filmed in Millbrook, while the interior was constructed in a studio. The set designers incorporated elements such as wooden desks, chalkboards, and vintage textbooks to evoke the simplicity and charm of a one-room schoolhouse.

3. The Barry Residence: Elegance and Opulence

The Barry family’s home, where Anne’s best friend Diana lives, was designed to contrast with the modest Cuthbert farmhouse. The exterior was filmed at a historic property in Ontario, while the interior sets featured luxurious furnishings, ornate wallpaper, and intricate woodwork, reflecting the Barry family’s wealth and status.


The Role of Nature: A Character in Its Own Right

One of the most striking aspects of “Anne with an E” is its emphasis on the natural world. The landscapes of Ontario and Nova Scotia were not just backdrops but integral elements of the storytelling. The changing seasons, from the vibrant colors of autumn to the stark beauty of winter, mirrored Anne’s emotional journey and underscored the themes of resilience and transformation.

1. The Haunted Wood: A Place of Mystery and Imagination

The Haunted Wood, a recurring location in the series, was filmed in the Greenwood Conservation Area. The dense forest, with its towering trees and dappled sunlight, became a symbol of Anne’s vivid imagination and her ability to find wonder in the world around her.

2. Lover’s Lane: A Sanctuary of Peace

Lover’s Lane, another iconic setting, was filmed in the same conservation area. The tranquil path, lined with wildflowers and shaded by trees, served as a refuge for Anne and her friends, a place where they could escape the pressures of their daily lives.

3. The Sea: A Source of Solace and Inspiration

The ocean, a recurring motif in the series, was filmed at various coastal locations in Nova Scotia. The vast, ever-changing seascape reflected Anne’s longing for adventure and her deep connection to nature.


The Legacy of the Filming Locations

The filming locations of “Anne with an E” have become pilgrimage sites for fans of the series, who travel from around the world to experience the beauty and magic of Avonlea. These places not only bring the story to life but also serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s work and the timeless themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery.


Q: Why wasn’t “Anne with an E” filmed entirely on Prince Edward Island?
A: While PEI is the spiritual home of Anne Shirley, logistical and budgetary constraints made it more practical to film in Ontario and Nova Scotia, which offered similar landscapes and infrastructure.

Q: Can visitors tour the filming locations?
A: Yes, many of the filming locations, such as Millbrook and the Greenwood Conservation Area, are accessible to the public. However, some sets, like the interior of Green Gables, were constructed in studios and are not open for tours.

Q: How did the production team recreate the 19th-century setting?
A: The team used a combination of historic properties, meticulous set design, and period-appropriate props and costumes to accurately depict the late 1800s.

Q: Are there any plans to preserve the filming locations as tourist attractions?
A: While there are no official plans, the popularity of the series has sparked interest in preserving and promoting the locations as cultural landmarks.

Q: What other works have been filmed in these locations?
A: Ontario and Nova Scotia are popular filming destinations for many productions, including “The Handmaid’s Tale” and “Haven.” Their diverse landscapes and historic architecture make them ideal for period dramas and contemporary stories alike.

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