Jane Austen’s novel, Pride and Prejudice has engendered a number of film and television adaptations. The BBC’s 1995 BAFTA and Emmy-winning series was however ranked by some as one of the greatest ever television adaptations to hit the screen due to its combination of acting, scenery, photography and its faithful portrayal to the novel of the same name. Producer, Sue Birtwistle new that Colin Firth would make a perfect Mr Darcy and he was first to be cast; Alison Steadman who played Mrs Bennet was next followed by Jennifer Ehle as Elizabeth ‘Lizzie’ Bennet. The Bennet sisters were not quite so easy as the production team felt it was crucial that actors were chosen who could not only do the script justice but also had the right period air. The scene that was particularly memorable was where Mr Darcy emerges from the pond at Pemberley (Lyme Park in Cheshire) to be discovered dripping wet by Lizzie. This scene increased admissions at Lyme Park by 178% in the first year following the screening of Pride and Prejudice illustrating the impact popular film and television dramas can have on the locations that are used if they are open to the public. The economic benefits through location fees and increased admissions aid conservation efforts given the cost of maintaining our nation’s built heritage.

Release / Airing: 24/09/1995