A Very British Scandal: A Glimpse into the Life of the Duchess of Argyll
If the title is familiar, that’s intentional: this is a sequel of sorts to A Very English Scandal, the immaculate telling of the Jeremy Thorpe scandal screened in 2018. With a screenplay by the same writer, Sarah Phelps, it’s also based on a true story, that of the troubled marriage of socialite Margaret Campbell (played by Clare Foy) and her husband Ian Campbell, the Duke of Argyll (Paul Bettany). A fable of postwar aristocratic decadence, this series reaches its climax in the era of the Profumo Affair and the birth of the 1960s social revolution, providing a much different atmosphere than Downton Abbey, flavouring its giddy tour of high society misbehaviour with a note of tragedy.
Stunning Locations: The Heart of the Story
Moreover, the locations are as grand as you’d expect. Moving between Scotland and London, we visit an array of astonishing scenery that mirrors the blithe privilege on display. The production team beautifully recreated interiors and chose authentic period locations to bring the story to life. Here’s an inside guide to some of the prominent sites featured in the series.
Scotland: Inveraray Castle
The star location is, of course, the home of the Duke of Argyll, Inveraray Castle. This remarkable structure, with its fairytale towers and dark stone, sits on the very edge of Loch Fyne in the Scottish Highlands. As the ancestral home of the clan Campbell, the first castle was built here in the 15th century. The current incarnation was allegedly modelled on a sketch by the architect Sir John Vanburgh; the towers were added along with a third floor after a fire in 1877. It is now home to Torquhil, our Duke’s grandson, and his wife Eleanor.
Ardkinglas: A Historic Country House
Another significant exterior used in the series is Ardkinglas, also located on the shores of Loch Fyne. This country house was constructed in the early 20th century on the site of a former castle owned by the clan Campbell. Renowned for its 18th-century Woodland Gardens, which are open to visitors, Ardkinglas is a privately owned property that has made sporadic appearances in various screen productions, including the TV drama The Crow Road and the movie The Water Horse.
In conclusion, ‘A Very British Scandal’ not only tells a gripping story but also showcases the beautiful landscapes and historical significance of its filming locations. Whether you are a fan of historical dramas or simply appreciate stunning architecture and picturesque settings, this series is a visual treat that should not be missed.
