Surrey Estate Mimics American Charm, Becomes Film Set for 'Practical Magic 2'

A housing estate in Surrey, England, has been designed to evoke the charm of American New England villages, leading to its selection as a filming location for the Hollywood sequel 'Practical Magic 2.' The development, known as 'The Hamptons,' is situated on 30 acres near the London-Surrey border in Worcester Park and was completed approximately 15 years ago.

Location scouts for Warner Bros. were reportedly impressed by the estate's resemblance to an American town, prompting them to choose it for scenes featuring stars Sandra Bullock and Dianne Wiest in August 2025. Filming transformed the main thoroughfare, Sherbrooke Way, into a New England-style shopping parade, complete with a lobster shack and country store.

Despite its name, The Hamptons in Surrey was designed to replicate the more homely villages of New England rather than the upscale Long Island enclave. The architecture features clapboard-style houses, picket fences, and a white, steepled community building called Maple Lodge, all contributing to its American aesthetic. The estate also boasts manicured greenery, a clocktower, and hosts seasonal decorations for holidays like Christmas and Halloween.

Residents report a strong sense of community, a quality they feel is often lacking in other British villages. Nicola Thompson, a resident for 19 years, described it as "buying a lifestyle," where neighbors are supportive and look out for one another. She noted that when her children were young, the estate provided a built-in support network similar to parenting groups.

Properties on the estate range from two-bedroom flats priced just under £400,000 to three- and four-bedroom houses selling for between £700,000 and £800,000. The development includes a mix of private homes and Housing Association properties. Amenities such as tennis courts, a gym, and a running track are also available.

While the estate's design has drawn comparisons to idealized American settings, some critics have likened it to the TV show 'Desperate Housewives,' suggesting a potentially superficial perfection. Others have drawn parallels to 'The Truman Show,' referencing the film about a life under constant observation. However, residents like Thompson emphasize that the community aspect feels genuine and supportive, refuting claims of it feels "cult-like."

The estate's layout, featuring wetlands and 30 acres of parkland, has made it popular with families. While the architectural style is distinctly American, the residents are diverse, reflecting London's multicultural population, with US accents being rare.

During the filming of 'Practical Magic 2,' residents were permitted to move freely within the estate. The production crew maintained a friendly demeanor with locals who came to observe the filming process. The estate's ability to authentically recreate an American village setting has allowed it to serve as a backdrop for Hollywood productions, while simultaneously fostering a close-knit community for its inhabitants.