The 2018 film Old Boys is a modern reimagining of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac story.
Set in an all-boys English boarding school in the 1980s, the story follows Amberson, an awkward but creative student.
Amberson helps Felix, the school’s athletic star, express his feelings for Agnes, the daughter of the new French teacher—while secretly liking her himself.
The film blends humor and charm with themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery.
Where Was Old Boys Filmed?
Old Boys was filmed in stunning locations across West Sussex, England. Here are the key filming spots:
Lancing College
Most scenes were filmed at Lancing College, a famous Gothic-style school in Sussex. The scenes wre film in and around the college. This location added to the authentic feel of a classic English boarding school.
Lancing College is a private school in southern England for students aged 13–18. It is located in West Sussex, near the village of Lancing, close to the south coast.
The school was founded in 1848 by Nathaniel Woodard and has about 600 students. Lancing College has 10 boarding houses.
Sompting Abbotts Preparatory School
This beautiful Grade II-listed Neo-Gothic school was another filming location. Its historic building and elegant interiors became the fictional Caldermount boarding school.
The production used the high-ceilinged Assembly Room and other parts of the school for key scenes.
During the shoot, the crew repainted rooms rearranged furniture and brought in props to recreate the 1980s setting. The car park served as the technical hub, with trucks for lighting, sound, and filming equipment.
Arundel, Sussex
The historic town of Arundel appears in the film, providing a scenic backdrop for some outdoor shots.
Lewes, Sussex
Additional scenes were filmed in Lewes, another picturesque town that fits the film’s vintage aesthetic.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions-
Q: Where was Old Boys filmed?
A: The film was shot in West Sussex, England, at locations like Sompting Abbotts Preparatory School, Lancing College, Arundel, and Lewes.
Q: When Did Filming Take Place?
A: Filming for Old Boys happened during the Easter holidays. This timing allowed the crew to use the school locations without disrupting students or regular activities.
Q: Why was Sompting Abbotts chosen for the movie?
A: The school’s historic Neo-Gothic architecture and well-preserved interiors perfectly suited the movie’s 1980s boarding school setting.
Q: Were scenes filmed outside of schools?
A: Yes, additional scenes were shot in the towns of Arundel and Lewes in Sussex.
Q: What made Sussex an ideal filming location?
A: Sussex offered a mix of historic buildings and beautiful towns that matched the movie’s nostalgic and charming vibe.