Step into Rutshire: The Real Cotswolds Locations Behind Rivals Series Two
StayCotswold reveals where fans can walk in the footsteps of Rupert, Declan and the Rutshire set.
The fictional county of Rutshire is back on screens - Rivals series two premiered on 15 May 2026, with the first six episodes drawing audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.
The good news for fans is that many of its most glamorous locations in The Cotswolds are open to visitors right now.
StayCotswold, the region’s leading independent holiday letting specialist, is helping fans of the show explore the manor houses, market towns and rolling countryside that gave the series its unmistakable look. Whether you are bingeing the new episodes or planning a visit, here are the hotspots to head for.
Chavenage House, Tetbury: Home of the O'Haras
For many fans, the most recognisable location in Rivals is Chavenage House in Tetbury, Gloucestershire, which appears as Declan O'Hara's family home, The Priory, in both series one and two. Aidan Turner, who plays the charismatic Irish broadcaster, is no stranger to the house: it also served as the Poldark family seat of Trenwith during his time in the BBC's much-loved period drama.
Originally built in the 14th century and adapted over the following centuries into the Elizabethan manor visitors see today, Chavenage House demonstrated remarkable versatility by convincingly portraying a wealthy 1980s television executive's country retreat in the fictional setting of Rutshire. In a testament to the dedication of the cast and crew, a bonfire scene in series two was filmed on a freezing November evening in the house's grounds, with Danny Dyer later recounting the measures he took to keep warm.
The house is open to visitors from 1 May to 30 September, offering a rare opportunity to explore a genuine piece of living English history that also happens to be one of the most filmed country houses in Britain. Visits are by prior arrangement and availability is limited given the house's continued popularity as a working film location.
Tetbury: The Town at the Heart of Rutshire
The beautiful market town of Tetbury sits at the centre of Rivals' world, standing in as the fictional Cotchesterthroughout the series. It is also home to Berkeley House at 16 The Chipping, which served as the exterior of Cameron Cook's terraced Hamilton Terrace residence in the show. Berkeley House is available to rent in its entirety, giving Rivals fans a genuine chance to sleep under the same roof as one of the series' most memorable characters.
Berkeley Castle, Gloucestershire: Polo, Power and 800 Years of History
Few settings in series two carry quite the same visual impact as Berkeley Castle, where the Rutshire Cup polo sequence in episode one was filmed. Built in 1153 and still home to the Berkeley family after more than 24 generations, the castle brought considerable gravitas to the production. Revenue from the filming is being directed towards the ongoing restoration and maintenance of the historic structure, ensuring that this extraordinary building continues to welcome visitors for generations to come.
Tracy Archer, Director of StayCotswold, said: "Rivals has reminded the world what we already know here in the Cotswolds: that this is one of the most beautiful and atmospheric places on earth. The series has drawn a new wave of visitors who want to experience the landscape and the properties that give the show its extraordinary sense of place. We are delighted to help them find their perfect base from which to explore real Rutshire."
StayCotswold offers a hand-picked collection of self-catering holiday properties across the Cotswolds, from characterful stone cottages in the villages featured in the series to larger country houses perfect for group getaways. For visitors inspired by Rivals, Tetburymakes an ideal base, placing guests within easy reach of Chavenage House, Berkeley Castle and the Wiltshire market town of Corsham, which was transformed into the centre of Cotchester for filming.
StayCotswold's impressive portfolio of over 300 properties, ensures that every visitor finds their perfect getaway. With over half of their offerings pet-friendly, many families can bring their furry companions along for the adventure. Guests can indulge in luxurious amenities with many properties featuring hot tubs and even swimming pools, providing a true A-lister style staycation in the heart of the Cotswolds.
For more information about StayCotswold and to view their wide range of properties, visit http://www.staycotswold.com