Netflix’s upcoming romantic comedy MY OXFORD YEAR premieres on August 1. Directed by Iain Morris and written by Allison Burnett and Melissa Osborne, the movie stars Sofia Carson as Anna, a determined American student pursuing her dreams at the University of Oxford. Her plans take an unexpected turn when she meets Jamie, played by Corey Mylchreest, a witty and charming Brit who changes everything.
Based on the novel by Julia Whelan, which was itself a novelization of Burnett’s original screenplay, My Oxford Year is a visual treat. It showcases not just the emotional arcs of its characters but also the richness of its filming backdrops. Here’s a detailed look at where My Oxford Year was filmed.
WHERE WAS MY OXFORD YEAR FILMED?
Filming for My Oxford Year began in early September 2024 across locations in Oxford and Windsor, England. Key scenes were shot on September 21 and 28 at Radcliffe Square and Hertford College. Production officially wrapped by mid-October 2024, as confirmed through crew social media posts and local reports.
Welcome to the world, Anna…♥️ @netflix pic.twitter.com/ZcPmJj6fTC
— Sofia Carson (@SofiaCarson) August 8, 2024
OXFORD, ENGLAND – THE HEART OF THE STORY
Given that much of the story is set at the University of Oxford, it comes as no surprise that a significant portion of the filming took place in Oxford, Oxfordshire. Several renowned Oxford colleges and landmarks make an appearance:
MAGDALEN COLLEGE
Magdalen College, located along Oxford’s High Street, is one of the most beautiful and prestigious colleges in the University of Oxford. Its leafy grounds, cloisters, and historic tower feature prominently in My Oxford Year. The college’s romantic setting adds visual elegance to Anna and Jamie’s blossoming story, embodying Oxford’s timeless academic charm.
ST HUGH’S COLLEGE
St Hugh’s College, known for its spacious gardens and modern feel, offers a more relaxed, green setting within Oxford. This college, with its slightly quieter location and less traditional architecture, reflects Anna’s initial sense of unfamiliarity and curiosity in her new environment. It complements the story’s theme of personal growth in a foreign land.
HERTFORD COLLEGE
Hertford College is easily recognized by its iconic Bridge of Sighs, which spans New College Lane. In My Oxford Year, it provides one of the most visually striking Oxford locations. Scenes filmed here highlight the contrast between tradition and modern experience, echoing the emotional connection between Anna and Jamie amidst centuries of history.
RADCLIFFE SQUARE
Radcliffe Square, located in the heart of Oxford, is one of the city’s most iconic locations. Surrounded by historic University of Oxford buildings—including the Radcliffe Camera, All Souls College, Brasenose College, and University Church of St Mary the Virgin—the square provides a visually stunning and quintessentially Oxford setting.
On the night of September 21, 2024, the My Oxford Year production team was spotted filming in and around Radcliffe Square and just outside Hertford College. These evening scenes brought a cinematic glow to the square’s historic cobbled paths, creating a perfect atmosphere for romantic or emotional moments in the film.
BODLEIAN LIBRARY
The Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe, served as a majestic filming location for My Oxford Year. Its grand architecture and historic reading rooms provided a scholarly backdrop that reflects Anna’s academic journey. As a symbol of Oxford’s intellectual heritage, the library adds authenticity and depth to the film’s university setting.
SHELDONIAN THEATRE
Built in the 17th century and designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the Sheldonian Theatre is a standout location in My Oxford Year. Used for university ceremonies and events, the building’s ornate interior and classical façade create a visually striking setting. It adds a sense of grandeur and tradition to scenes that capture Oxford’s formal academic life.
Berkshire, England
The filming for My Oxford Year took place in Berkshire, England, and included standout locations in St. Leonards Road in Windsor. Two key spots — The Old Court arts centre and King Neptune Fish and Chip Shop — were given a complete Hollywood makeover during production.
THE OLD COURT ARTS CENTRE – WINDSOR, BERKSHIRE
The Old Court, a community arts venue located on St. Leonards Road, was transformed into a fully American-style bar for the shoot. Director Martin Denny of The Old Court shared that the film crew “completely rebuilt our bar as an American bar—and put it back as it was in an hour.” The speed and efficiency of the transformation impressed both staff and onlookers. This temporary change of scenery provided an authentic U.S. setting that ties into the character Anna’s background and her transition into British culture.
With its warm brickwork and multipurpose layout, The Old Court’s interiors were ideal for portraying a social hub frequented by international students or locals. The team’s ability to switch between British and American aesthetics highlights the versatile charm of this venue.
KING NEPTUNE FISH AND CHIP SHOP – WINDSOR, BERKSHIRE
Just down the street, the King Neptune Fish and Chip Shop also served as a filming location. Owned by Arminder Nandra since 1998, the traditional takeaway spot was selected by the film’s location team on the spot. “They just popped into the shop. They said it was the perfect location for what they needed,” Nandra recalled. The film crew transformed the humble chip shop into a setting that likely features a character-driven or comedic scene, adding local authenticity to the production.
This spontaneous transformation into a film set was a first for the shop, thrilling both its owners and regular customers. The use of real businesses like King Neptune adds layers of realism to the fictional world of My Oxford Year.
MERTON STREET WINE BAR, LONDON
Another filming location for My Oxford Year includes the Merton Street Wine Bar, also known as Merton Café and Wine, located at 140 Merton High Street, London SW19 1BA. This Georgian-style wine bar, situated in the Merton area of London, is known for its cozy ambiance and its curated selection of Georgian wines and traditional dishes.
Run by a family passionate about sharing their heritage, the venue is praised for its warm service and intimate setting. The location’s rustic charm and relaxed atmosphere made it a fitting backdrop for scenes requiring a more casual or romantic environment—potentially depicting moments where Anna and Jamie connect away from the university setting.
HAMMERSMITH BRIDGE, LONDON
My Oxford Year also features scenes filmed at Hammersmith Bridge, an iconic suspension bridge in West London that spans the River Thames, connecting Hammersmith on the north side to Barnes on the south. Originally built in 1827 and later redesigned by civil engineer Sir Joseph Bazalgette, the current structure dates back to 1887 and is classified as a Grade II* listed landmark for its historical and architectural significance. The bridge’s ornate design and scenic riverside setting offer a cinematic backdrop, ideal for emotionally resonant or transitional scenes in the film.
HATFIELD HOUSE, HERTFORDSHIRE
Nestled just north of London in the county of Hertfordshire, Hatfield House stands as one of England’s most revered Jacobean estates—and a standout filming location for My Oxford Year. The home, built in 1611 by the Earl of Salisbury, features 223 rooms, extensive formal gardens, and historic structures like the Old Palace—making it a perfect stage for sweeping romantic and dramatic cinema.
OFFICIAL TRAILER
Don’t forget to check back at netfilming.com for more updates, behind-the-scenes stories.
