Film producers approached Robert Bentley, station manager at Epping Ongar Railway in North Weald, Essex, with an unusual request to use the facility’s vintage railway carriage for scenes in Practical Magic 2, a sequel to the 1998 romantic fantasy film. The production team needed the 1960s British Rail Mark 1 coach relocated to Warner Bros Studios in Leavesden, Hertfordshire for filming purposes.
The railway, which has operated as a heritage attraction since the 1990s closure of the original line, provided an authentic setting that met the filmmakers’ specific requirements. Bentley described the experience of working with the cast and crew as memorable, noting that Sandra Bullock showed interest in the train’s history during production. The station manager was also offered a minor role in the film, appearing as a train guard with a speaking part. The production company provided compensation described as a substantial but non-six-figure sum for use of the location and facilities.
Beyond the railway site, other Essex locations contributed to the production. Scenes were also filmed at St Mary and All Saints Church in Lambourne, near Abridge, a Grade I-listed structure dating to the 12th Century that producers adapted to represent an American church setting in the film.
The production represents part of a broader trend of major film and television projects utilizing Essex locations. According to reports, film and television productions filmed in the county have generated approximately £3 million for the local economy since 2022. The Essex County Council established the Essex Film Office in 2022 to facilitate these opportunities by connecting production companies with suitable locations and managing necessary permissions. Council officials noted that the county’s diverse landscape and historical sites offer substantial appeal to studios seeking varied filming environments.
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